12 Days of Christmas Day 10: Santa

So, I totally intended to talk about Santa Claus and how he and der Weihnachtsmann compare and contrast. However, upon further research into the topic, I became confused. I guess that's what happens when your native traditions and customs are a hodge podge of those of other cultures. Let me try to explain.

In some parts of Germany, Sankt Nikolaus comes the night of December 5th to fill the shoes of children with small treats and gifts (as I mentioned in a previous post). In some traditions, the children can also leave a list for Sankt Nikolaus to pass on to the Weihnachtsmann, who delivers presents on the night of December 24th.

In the US, we mix those two traditions together. Santa Claus comes the night of December 24th to deliver presents, as well as fill shoes/stockings. Only some areas/families observe the St. Nick tradition.

Santa only comes to those who believe! So, don't stop believin'

!

For a more detailed and informative explanation, check out this site.

In either case, the gift-bringer who come on the 24th is a jolly old man with a long white beard and a red get-up. One rides a horse, while the other flies around in a sleigh pulled by magical reindeer. And both are certainly integral to modern celebrations of Christmas (at least as I know it).








Bis morgen!