Ded Moroz (rus. Дед Мороз “Grandfather Frost”, aslo known as Морозко (Morozko), Студень

Ded Moroz (rus. Дед Мороз “Grandfather Frost”, aslo known as Морозко (Morozko), Студень (Studen’) or Трескунец (Treskunets)) — one of the most well-known characters of slavic folklore, a personification of frost and cold. He was often portrayed as either little silver-haired old-man or a stately giant. Regardless of his appearance, however, Morozko always carries his magic staff, which helps him to freeze objects and create blizzards and severe frost. There are numerous tales and stories about Ded Moroz freezing people to death if they dared to whine on the bad weather in his presence. At the same time, those who met him and blessed the frost despite feeling cold were given generous presents. People believed that “feeding” Moroz with pancakes and bread during the Svyatki season (a series of festivities in slavic tradition during orthodox Christmas celebrations) would please him and persuade not to be too severe with the weather. The image of Ded Moroz as a kind old-man giving presents on the New Year night was formed only in the beginning of XX century and has a little in common with the original character. -- source link

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