Every Christmas, kids all over the world wait excitedly for Santa Claus to visit. Have you ever wondered where Santa’s story began, or how he became the jolly gift-giver we know today? Let’s take a trip through time and explore the fascinating history of Santa Claus!

Santa Was Inspired by a Real Person

Long before Santa wore his red suit, there was a man named Saint Nicholas, who lived in what is now Turkey over 1,700 years ago. He was known for secretly giving gifts to people in need, especially children. His generosity and kindness made him a beloved figure, and over time, stories of his good deeds spread across Europe!

Saint Nicholas Became “Sinterklaas”

In the Netherlands, Saint Nicholas was called Sinterklaas, and he was celebrated every December 5th. When Dutch settlers moved to America in the 1600s, they brought their Sinterklaas traditions with them. Over time, his name and image slowly changed, becoming the Santa Claus we know today!

Santa’s Reindeer Came From a Poem

The idea of Santa traveling with flying reindeer comes from the famous poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas ”, better known as “ ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Written in 1823, the poem describes Santa’s sleigh, chimney visits, and his eight trusty reindeer for the first time ever!

Santa’s Red Suit Became Popular Thanks to Coca-Cola

In the early 1800s, Santa’s outfit looked very different. Sometimes he wore brown, green, or even tan robes. But in the 1930s, Coca-Cola featured Santa in their holiday advertisements, dressed in bright red with a white fur trim. That cheerful image became so popular that it stuck, and it’s the version we see everywhere today!

Millions of Kids Write to Santa Every Year

Every Christmas season, children from around the world send letters to Santa Claus sharing their wishes and good deeds. Many countries even have special addresses for Santa, like The North Pole in the United States or Lapland in Finland, where people can visit Santa’s “official” village!

Santa Has Many Names Around the World

Santa goes by various names in different countries, including Père Noël in France, Father Christmas in the United Kingdom, Weihnachtsmann in Germany, and Grandfather Frost in Russia. No matter what he’s called, the spirit of giving and kindness stays the same!

Click here to check out our blog about all the different Santas around the world!

Keeping the Magic Alive

Santa Claus reminds us that kindness, joy, and giving are what make the holidays so special. Whether you’re leaving out cookies, writing a letter, or watching for reindeer tracks in the snow, you’re taking part in a story that’s been told for hundreds of years.

Meet Santa At Metropolis Resort!

If you’re looking to make this winter extra special, celebrate the season at Metropolis Resort!

Enjoy a festive winter menu at City Eats, snap photos with Santa in Action City, and decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus in the hotel lobby. View our full holiday activity schedule here!