Who celebrates Christ Child or Santa Claus at Christmas?

The Christmas gift-giving tradition is a celebration of diversity - because in the most contemplative time of the year we are surrounded by a real magic that is fed by traditions and legends from different cultures. One question that is always a topic of conversation is who gives the Christmas presents - does Santa Claus come in some countries and the Christ Child in others? 

Where do these Christmas figures come from?

The history of the Christmas gift-givers is as fascinating as it is varied. Let's start with Father Christmas, known as Santa Claus, Père Noël, Babbo Natale and many other names. He originally lived in what is now Turkey and was known for his generosity.

This holy man mutated over the centuries into a popular figure who was particularly recognized in the Dutch "Sinterklaas". When the Dutch settlers came to the New World in the 17th century, they also brought their traditional St. Nicholas celebrations with them, which developed in the USA into the modern Santa Claus.

And no, Santa Claus does not come from the Coca Cola Company! This popular theory states that Coca Cola created the red-clad Santa Claus as a business idea for an advertising campaign in the 1930s. In fact, Santa Claus wore red in earlier depictions, but Coca Cola's advertisements certainly helped to further popularize and solidify this image.

The Christ Child, on the other hand, has its roots in the German Reformation. Martin Luther wanted to refocus the Christmas celebrations on the birth of Christ and thus moved away from the Saint Nicholas figure that was associated with Catholics. He therefore introduced the concept of the Christ Child, who brings the gifts as the baby Jesus.

How do Santa Claus and the Christ Child get into people’s houses?

The idea of ​​Santa coming down the chimney is particularly common in countries where houses are usually equipped with a fireplace. This image is closely linked to the concept of the house as a family shelter, and the fireplace as such becomes the symbolic entry point of the good magic of Christmas.

The Christ Child, on the other hand, retains a certain heavenly mystique. He comes quietly and invisibly, often while the children are in church or already asleep, and leaves the presents under the Christmas tree. He is a gentle and mysterious presence that underlines the silence of the Christmas night.

Why are there differences in gift-giving days?

In Germany and many other European countries, presents traditionally arrive on Christmas Eve, December 24th. This practice is based on the idea that Jesus was born in the evening, and so the celebrations begin on the eve of Christmas Day.

In many other countries, especially in the Anglo-American tradition, the exchange of gifts takes place on the morning of December 25. This custom is based on the liturgical celebration in which Christmas Day begins with the first light of the morning.

It is this variety of traditions and stories that make our Christmas celebrations so rich and varied. Whether it is Santa Claus in his red and white robes or the delicate Christ Child in light veils - they all contribute to the magic of the festival and remind us of the joy of giving, the love of family and the silence and contemplation that surrounds Christmas.

Let us take this thought to heart and celebrate the holidays for what they are: a time of warmth, light and community, in whatever form it comes into our homes. Merry Christmas!