Christmas time is about many things. Religion, love, and giving are all reasons to celebrate Christmas. Every year on December 25, Santa comes to the houses of all the nice boys and girls all over the world and gives them presents. Where did Santa come from? Santa Claus originated in Eastern Christian culture. His real name was St. Nicholas and he was a bishop that helped the needy. 

St. Nicholas was born in present day Turkey. As a young adult he lost his parents and used the inheritance to give back to the poor and sick. He became a bishop and continued to spread the word of the bible and give to the needy. There are many stories about the actions of St. Nicholas like the time he freed three men who were falsely imprisoned in his city. St. Nicholas gave to those who did not have anything.

Now, you may be asking what this has to do with the big guy who comes down your chimney and eats your cookies?

Well, the stories of St. Nicholas spread all around the world and the Dutch began celebrating his legend as Feast Day of Saint Nicholas. This was celebrated every December 6 in the Netherlands. Every morning on December 6 presents would appear in their houses when they woke up in the morning. This tradition of “Sinterklaas” was brought with the Dutch to America in the 1700s where it is celebrated to this day.

Over time, things change, and the name was changed to “Santa Claus” as an easier word to say, the tradition was added to the tradition of Christmas Day. He is described as a happy man with a big beard and red suit with his seven reindeer and sack of gifts. 

The history behind St. Nicholas and Santa goes back thousands of years and is still celebrated all over the world today.