Black Bear

In the remote villages of the Dutch countryside there exists an ancient and almost forgotten Christmas tradition. Should you, during the holy nights of December, spot a lonely bear wearing a slightly crooked Santa hat wandering through the snow, you must immediately invite him inside. Offer him a seat by the fire, a plate of warm speculaas cookies spiced with cinnamon and clove, and most importantly — a generous glass of strong, dark beer.
This peculiar custom dates back to the Great Bear Migration of 1647, when a fierce winter storm blew a small band of Scandinavian bears far off course. Exhausted and disoriented, they arrived in the Low Countries just before Christmas. The kind-hearted Dutch families took pity on the cold and hungry beasts. To everyone’s surprise, sharing their robust winter ales and sweet speculaas not only calmed the bears but filled every home with an extraordinary warmth and peace that lasted through the entire festive season.
The children were especially delighted, climbing onto the bears’ broad backs for gentle rides around the living room while the adults raised their glasses. Ever since that winter, the tradition holds: a lonely bear in a Santa hat is no cause for alarm — it is a blessing in furry disguise. Welcome him, feed him cookies, and pour him something dark, strong, and soul-soothing. Do this, and your Christmas is guaranteed to be joyous, harmonious, and blessed with good fortune.
So, this Christmas, keep your eyes open… and your cellar well stocked. Because some bears only visit once in a lifetime.