They are a major part of the Creepmas Parade. But why? 

Here's a bit on the significance of bells.

Bells have been used by humans for thousands of years. Pagan bells were often rung in the fall and winter to deter evil spirits in the long, dark nights. Associated with the passage of time, bell towers are still used today ringing out the hours as they pass. Harley-Davidson riders hang “gremlin bells” or “guardian bells” on their bikes, a practice that has been traced back to the Middle Ages in Europe when bells were used during funerals to ward off evil spirits. In Tibetan Buddhism, bells are used during meditation to bring peace and enlightenment. Witches Bells are often hung in doorways and have been used to protect against negative energy, evil spirits, unwanted influences, and even used in exorcisms. 

In fact, bells have played a large role in Christianity. The Patron Saint Barbara is often invoked through bells as a means of driving away thunder. The mere sound of bells was believed to purify the air and could protect against pestilence and plague. Church bells were tolled when women were in labor to help speed up the delivery. Bell ringing has been used to mark special occasions like weddings, births, and funerals. The church believed that the Devil feared the sounds of bells ringing. In many troll legends, particularly those from Norway and Finland, trolls hate the sound of church bells. Bells play a significant role in the celebration of the Christmas season. Holiday songs have “bell” in their titles: “Jingle Bells,” “Silver Bells,” “Sleigh Bells,” “Carol of the Bells,” and more. Santa’s sleigh is adorned in bells signaling his arrival.

But another creature uses bells to signify their arrival. Krampus is sure to be around when a cacophony of bells can be heard in the winter nights. Adorned in furs and chains, bells are a major part of the Krampus costume. It is said that bells announced their frightening arrival.

Whether bells are used in a spiritual ritual to cleanse and protect or used to signify the frightful announcement of a demonic figure, there’s no denying that bells are a part of what it means to be human. The next time you hear a bell chiming, take a moment to pause and allow yourself a moment to wonder.