Think you’re a quiz expert on the Mari Lwyd, weird Welsh superstitions, and chilling Christmas folklore? Well, it’s time to prove it… against someone who isn’t!
In this festive edition of the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast, Mark Rees has crafted a devilishly tricky Christmas quiz to test listeners’ knowledge of all things spooky and seasonal in Wales.
Special guest Chris Carra joins Mark for this 2022 end-of-year challenge, where they dive deep into the eerie world of Welsh Christmas folklore. The episode covers ghostly tales, Welsh witches, and, of course, the increasingly famous Mari Lwyd — that terrifying horse skull draped in a sheet that demands entry to homes.
Why listen to the Christmas episodes?
Mark has recorded more than ten Christmas episodes. You can find them listed on the podcast page, where you can:
✨ Unlock the mysteries of the Mari Lwyd: For the most in-depth, entertaining insight into the Mari Lwyd tradition, including first-hand accounts from the 19th century, this podcast is a gateway to understanding Wales’ most haunting Christmas custom.
✨ Test your folklore knowledge: The quiz on this year’s episode isn’t for the faint-hearted. Questions span bizarre superstitions, ghostly encounters and festive frights unique to Wales.
What’s inside this Christmas quiz episode?
In Episode 108, Chris and Mark kick things off with tales of their ghostly adventures at Craig-y-Nos Castle — one of the most haunted locations in Wales. Then, they launch straight into the Christmas folklore quiz. Here’s a taste of what’s in store:
- The Mari Lwyd: Do listeners know the origins of this creepy yuletide visitor?
- Welsh witches: How did witches influence Welsh Christmas traditions?
- Superstitions and traditions: From luck-bringing rituals to ominous omens, how well do you (and Chris) know Wales’ festive folklore?
Listen and subscribe
Ready to test your mettle? Hit play below and join Mark and Chris for a spine-tingling journey through Welsh Christmas folklore. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast for a regular dose of spooky Welsh legends, ghost stories, and folklore.
Listen to the episode now:
And remember — if you’ve got your own Mari Lwyd stories or any strange Christmastime superstitions passed down from your mamgu, Mark would love to hear them! Reach out via the contact page or connect with him on social media.
Until next time, nos da – and may the Mari bring you good luck for the new year!
Mark Rees — Your Guide to the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales
Follow Mark for more chilling tales and Welsh folklore insights!
Chris Carra — Planet Health
For more from Chris Carra, you can follow him on Twitter and check out his Planet Health podcast. He also has a Planet Health website, which includes an article and episode featuring your truly where you can learn all about Welsh food and its health benefits.