Celebrated by two million people in over 160 countries, Christmas is known as the world’s most popular holiday. In America, everyone is familiar with the jolly elf, Santa Claus, and his delivery of presents to good children on the eve of Dec. 25. The legend of Santa Claus dates back to 280 A.D. with Saint Nicholas, a Turkish monk known for his extreme kindness and generosity to those in need, as he gave away his inherited wealth to help the poor. The original story has been told and changed over many years, providing America with the classic image of Santa Claus and allowing for other countries to interpret their respective Santa based on their culture. Although each Santa stems from the same story of Saint Nicholas, each country’s Christmas traditions have traits that make them unique.
France- Père Noël
First emerging after World War I, Père Noël became a legend in French-Canadian tradition as Christmas became more popularized in Québec. Père Noël also has roots in Celtic culture with the god “Gargan” who was believed to deliver gifts to children during the winter solstice. Pẽre Noël has a different appearance than the traditional American Santa Claus, with his distinct style of a long cloak and fur lined hat as opposed to a red suit. Rather than leaving milk and cookies out for Père Noël’s arrival and gift-giving, children leave treats and carrots for his flying donkey, Gui.
Netherlands- Sinterklaas
The Dutch version of Santa, Sinterklaas, closely resembles the American image as he wears a red bishop’s hat and has a long white beard. Christmas, or St. Nicholas’ Eve is celebrated on Dec. 5 in the Netherlands, complete with gift-giving from Sinterklaas himself. Sinterklaas rides on horseback into the Netherlands from Madrid, Spain, later knocking on doors to bring presents and candy to good children. The legend of Sinterklaas says that if children misbehave, he will put them in a sack and take them back to Spain for a year to teach them a lesson. Although the story spooks children, it has been conducive for years in leading them to behave in time for St. Nicholas’ day.
Spain- Los Reyes Magos
Spain switches up their traditions during the winter holiday season, as they celebrate both “La Navidad” (Christmas) and “Día de los Reyes” (The Day of Kings) to honor the Three Wise Men. Día de los Reyes is the time of gift giving, as well-behaved children are visited by the three kings from Christian tradition. On Jan. 6, the three kings travel from the East with gifts to deliver, putting them into the shoes of children who leave them outside, waiting for the arrival of Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar. Día de los Reyes is a highly anticipated celebration throughout the winter, as children write to each of the kings with their hopes for the holiday.
Sweden- Tomte
Tomte or Jultomten is a traditional creature in Swedish folklore who also makes an appearance for the Christmas, or “Jul” season. A tomte is a small, mythical dwarf that wears a red cap, has a long beard and is believed to watch over a household. On Dec. 25, an adult family member dresses as the Tomte, wearing a red robe and a face mask while distributing toys to children. This activity represents the legend of the Tomte and the delivering of gifts out of kindness.
Every country’s traditions are different in regards to winter holidays, but they all share the similarities of embracing childlike fun, magic and showing generosity to loved ones.
