The Western Santa Claus, a character who today marks the holiday season and delights children around the world, has emerged through a long history of Christian and folk traditions. Its origins are most commonly associated with Saint Nicholas, a historical figure, a bishop from the 4th century, known for his quiet and selfless help to the poor.

According to tradition, Saint Nicholas secretly helped people in need, without seeking recognition.

  • The most famous legend tells of how he secretly gave gold to a poor man, allowing him to marry off his three daughters who had no dowry.
  • From the same tradition comes the legend of the stocking - a gift accidentally placed through the chimney ended up in a stocking hanging by the fireplace\, which later evolved into the custom of leaving gifts in stockings.
  • Over time, peoples from Northwestern Europe added elements of their own traditions (reindeer, sleighs, North Star, stockings…), a culture that continues to accompany him to this day.

Although the figure of Saint Nicholas has been present in Europe for centuries, his appearance has not been consistent. Depending on the region and era, he was depicted as a serious bishop, ascetic, or folk figure.

It wasn’t until the late 19th century in the United States that the modern visual identity of Santa Claus began to take shape.

  • Illustrations in magazines like Harper’s Weekly,
  • and especially the works of American cartoonist Thomas Nast from 1862, gradually shaped the image of a chubby, jolly old man with a large white beard.
  • The final look was further standardized in 1931, when a Coca-Cola advertising campaign popularized the red and white suit, making it a globally recognizable holiday symbol.

Thus, the Western Santa Claus became a blend of Christian heritage, folk motifs, and modern marketing.

In Greek tradition, the gift-giving figure remains closely associated with Saint Basil the Great, a historical figure from the 4th century known for his deep faith, humility, and organized charity.

According to legend, Saint Basil was tall, with dark hair and beard. The Western depiction of Santa Claus began to influence Greek urban populations as early as the mid-20th century, especially through New Year’s cards from the Greek diaspora. Today, the lovable, chubby Santa Claus can be seen everywhere in Greece, while the essence of the tradition remains unchanged.

In Greece, gifts are exchanged on January 1st, the day of Saint Basil, while in the West, gift-giving is associated with Christmas.

Although differences in date and sometimes appearance exist, the message remains the same: kindness, solidarity, and selfless giving to loved ones - values that connect both Saint Nicholas and Saint Basil\, and which are still alive in many homes during the holidays.

If you are planing to spend Christmas and New Year holidays in Greece, see here What to expect and do in Athens and Thessaloniki.

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