Have you ever wondered who brings presents to children in different parts of the world? Santa Claus is famous all over the world. But he is certainly not the only character associated with Christmas. While many of these characters originated as religious figures, gift giving is very much a non-religious custom today. In addition, in some countries there are characters who do not attach themselves to religious holidays at all.

They don’t go at the same time

At the outset, it must be said that not all givers arrive on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. In fact, there are other variations of gift giving. In some places, St Nicholas brings Christmas presents as early as 6 December; elsewhere, children have to wait a few days later than in most of the world. In fact, in some countries presents are given on New Year’s Day or on Epiphany, January 6.

The most famous Santa

Probably the most famous character of Christmas is Santa Claus. In many places this character looks the same, but is called something completely different, for example. This character comes from Western Christian culture. There is a whole legend attached to Santa that talks about elves making presents in Santa’s workshop and then he and his reindeer delivering them. The houses are traditionally reached by chimney.

The popular idea of Santa Claus comes from folklore traditions surrounding the 4th century Christian bishop St Nicholas, the patron saint of children. It was St. Nicholas who became famous for his alleged generosity and secret gift-giving. Santa is usually depicted as a stocky, jolly man with a white beard and often wearing glasses. He wears a red coat with a white collar.

━━ ( Source: Tim Mossholder /  Unsplash+ )

Grandpa Frost

In the largest country in the world, Santa Claus brings gifts. In Slavic mythology, he is the bringer of winter and the ruler of cold. The character changed character and began to be promoted as the main figure of winter. He eliminated Santa Claus and Christmas, and the main celebrated holiday became the New Year. Grandfather Frost is accompanied by his granddaughter Snow White. Russian Christmas is celebrated on January 7.

Santa Claus

In the Czech Republic or Slovakia, Santa Claus brings presents to children. Santa Claus also visits children in Argentina or Wales on Christmas Eve. In South Africa, Father Christmas also flies to some families. However, it depends on the part of the country.

Saint Nicholas

In some countries, St Nicholas brings presents to children. However, he usually does not go alone, but is accompanied by Krampus. While St Nicholas gives presents to good children, Krampus, often depicted as a scary goat with cloven hooves and horns, is supposed to punish those who have misbehaved. Saint Nicholas visits children in Luxembourg, Switzerland and Austria, for example. He also visits some children in Belgium, especially French-speaking ones.

The Christmas goat

Probably the most interesting tradition comes from Scandinavia and northern Europe. The symbol of Christmas in these countries is the goat. The goat has a very long history and its roots go back to ancient festivals. Today it is best known as a Christmas decoration made from straw. However, in Finland, the Christmas figure that brings presents is still called Joulupukki, which translates as the Christmas goat.