Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Santa names around the world

Santa names around the world, The jolly round man in the red suit goes by many names around the world. Yet his mission is universal: to spread holiday cheer to all. Let's take a tour through the many names and faces of Santa.

Santa Claus

Where: United States

Santa Claus' modern-day look was solidified by a soft drink company . Inspired by a poem from the 1800s, a Michigan-born illustrator created Santa Claus, replacing Thomas Nast's caricatures .

Father Christmas

Where: British Commonwealth

Father Christmas evolved from an ancient festival, and a famous author created this character to depict him wearing a distinctive outfit .

Sinterklaas

Where: Netherlands

In this well-known holiday movie, a young girl sings  about Sinterklaas. In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas  is celebrated on this special day.

Saint Nicholas

Where: Turkey

Many trace Santa's origins to Saint Nicholas , born in the third century in Patara. He went on to become a bishop. After his death, Nicholas became the patron saint of these people. In 2012, Turkey asked Italy to return these for St. Nick.

Grandfather Frost

Where: Slavic Europe

In these Eastern European countries, Grandfather Frost  is Santa's equivalent. He's also known by this name and brings gifts to children during these celebrations.

Odin

Where: Germany and Scandinavia

In ancient mythology, Odin holds many similarities to the modern-day Santa. He rides an eight-legged horse  that, according to this 13th century text, has this magical ability.

St. Basil

Where: Greece

In the East, Santa often means Basil of Caesarea, or St. Basil . He was a Christian bishop in this city in the former Asia Minor. On his feast day, families and friends celebrate by serving this food, exchanging gifts and singing holiday songs.

Christmas Old Man

Where: China

Christians celebrate the holiday  and decorate with red pagodas, paper lanterns and flowers. Christmas Old Man leaves treats for children in these items.

Tomte

Where: Scandinavia

The Santa legend is intertwined with the Nordic folklore of Tomte, evolving into a mythological creature. In a 19th century poem, the Tomte takes on modern-day flair as depicted in Jenny Nystrom's famous image.

Pai Natal

Where: Portugal

Portuguese children don't have to wait for the jolly guy because gifts are given at this time. With all the presents opened, families and friends feast on this signature food.

Mikulas

Where: Hungary

In early December, children put these on windowsills for Mikulas, with slight variations of the Santa-like tradition in this nearby country. Most children receive a combination of sweets and this unfortunate item.

Papa Noel

Where: Spain

The Christmas season starts with this feast, and children leave their shoes for Papa Noel. The end of Christmas is celebrated with a visit from these guys. Papa Noel is also the Santa of choice in these countries.

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