Christmas traditions associated with Santa Claus in different countries

Who among us does not know Santa Claus? However, not everyone knows that the legends about the beloved Saint and the traditions associated with him differ depending on the region and culture. Some stories are deeply rooted in local history and folklore, while others have arisen as a result of cultural influences and commercialisation. In this article, we will present some traditions associated with Santa Claus, showing how his figure is perceived in different parts of the world. Read on and find out.

Finland: Santa Claus from Lapland

Finland is considered the homeland of Santa Claus. In the town of Rovaniemi, in the heart of Lapland, there is a Santa Claus Village, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. Children from all over the world write letters to Santa Claus, addressing them to "Joulupukki, Rovaniemi, Finland." Santa himself, known here as "Joulupukki," wears a red suit and has a white beard, and his home and workshop are full of elves.

In Finland, it is also a tradition for Santa Claus to visit children's homes on Christmas Eve and hand out gifts in person, which is an extraordinary experience, especially for the youngest.

Netherlands: Sinterklaas and his helpers

In the Netherlands, Santa Claus is known as Sinterklaas. He arrives in the country in mid-November on a ship from Spain. In this symbolic way, preparations for Christmas begin. Sinterklaas wears a red, bishop's cloak, mitre and golden crosier, and is accompanied by a group of helpers called "Zwarte Piet" (Black Peter).

Traditionally, on 5 December, during the celebration of "Sinterklaasavond" (Sinterklaas Eve), children leave their shoes by the fireplace or front door, hoping to find gifts and sweets in them. 

Spain: Three Kings Instead of Santa Claus

In Spain, instead of Santa Claus, children await the arrival of the Three Kings. The Three Kings bring presents on the night of 5 to 6 January, during the Epiphany celebration. Children leave their shoes outside their homes, so the Kings can fill them with gifts. Earlier, on 5 January, many cities hold festive parades where the Three Kings hand out sweets to children.

Although the figure of Santa Claus is gaining popularity in some regions of Spain, the tradition associated with the Three Kings is still alive and considered more important.

Japan: Santa-san 

Christmas in Japan is celebrated differently than in countries with a Christian tradition. Although it is not a religious holiday, Japan has adopted many Western customs, such as decorating cities with lights and Christmas trees and giving gifts. So what does Christmas look like in Japan? It is often compared to Valentine's Day, it is a time that couples spend together, filled with romantic moments. 

What about traditions related to Santa Claus? Santa Claus, known as "Santa-san," is a popular figure, especially among children. Although the figure does not have religious connotations, as in the Christian tradition, he evokes much joy and also hands out gifts. In Japan, Santa Claus ornaments and figurines are also popular and can be seen in many places during the holiday season.

Summary

Santa Claus, although a well-known and beloved figure, is presented differently in various countries. In Finland, the homeland of Santa Claus, Joulupukki personally visits children on Christmas Eve. In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas arrives by ship from Spain, while in Spain, the Three Kings hand out gifts. In Japan, Santa-san is a symbol of modern, not necessarily religious, celebration.