Santa Claus
The most popular symbol of Christmas is Santa Claus, who is the symbol of presents, miracles and fairy-tales. Different nations gave different names to Santa Claus.
In Finland they call him Joulupukki, in Dannie – Julenisse. Papa Nohel, Pai Natal, Ded Moroz, Babbo Natale, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle and many other names you may find to call this symbol of Christmas.
But characteristics of Santa Claus are similar in traditions of different nations. And children love Santa Claus and are looking forward to his visit. They are waiting for his presents. Usually it is pictured as a fat old man with white beard.
Lapland is considered to be the home of Santa of all nations no matter how they are called there. And he is one of the most famous persons in Lapland. As a rule Santa Claus has companions that help him to give all the presents to children, because on Christmas Eve he has to put a present under Christmas tree, into stockings, or under pillows to every child. So, his helpers are elves. According to other traditions Santa lives in North Pole, somewhere in north where there is a lot of snow.
Elf is a magical creature that helps Santa Claus to make toys and to get ready for the trip. They also decorate Christmas trees in the house of Santa Claus.
There are a lot of traditions connected with Santa Claus. Some children write letters to Santa Claus asking him for the presents they want. According to another legend he gets into the house through chimney. According to American Tradition, children leave red socks over the fireplace. And when Santa comes, he puts candies into them. Some people also leave milk and cookies on the table near the New Year Tree, so that Santa could sit and have a rest for a moment drinking hot milk and eating cookies.
The traditional suit of Santa Claus is a red suit with white collars and a big belt. He always carries a huge bag that is full of presents. He has a beard and his laughter is famous all over the world: "ho, ho, ho!"
But a question may appear: "How does Santa have time to put all the presents to all children of the world?" So Santa travels in magic flying sledge with reindeer put into it. And reindeer fly so fast that Santa may get to another part of the world in a few minutes.
Most children of the world believe in Santa Claus. But there are a lot of discussions on this problem. Some people think that children loose the sense of reality because of Santa Claus. According to other opinion, children need fairy tails and they need to believe in magic and miracles that makes them be more kind.
Another problem connected with Santa Claus is of course money. People say that Santa is a symbol of commercialism. This character is a good object to sell anything, service and advertisement mean.
But in spite of all Santa is the most popular symbol of Christmas that makes this holiday even better. So as you may see, Santa Claus is a nice legend that turns Christmas into the most expected holiday.