Santa Claus Goes Global

Sinterklaas

Here in the United States he's known as Santa Claus, but the jolly man in the red suit takes on many different names and roles around the world. 

The Netherlands: Known as Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa reportedly lives in Spain during the off season. He takes a steamboat to Holland in mid-November and spends three weeks delivering presents to good children. Naughty children don't get gifts, though. Instead, according to legend, Sinterklaas kidnaps them and takes them back to Spain! 

Italy: Le Befana is a friendly holiday witch who delivers goodies to children on either Christmas or Epiphany (January 6). Unlike Santa, she prefers wine over milk and cookies and Italian parents often leave her a glass to enjoy during her stop. A Santa Claus figure, known as Babbo Natale, is also becoming more popular in Italy. 

Russia: Ded Moroz, or Grandfather Frost, looks a lot like the Santa we know in the U.S., but he also carries a magical staff and travels with his granddaughter Sengurochka, or Snow Girl. The pair plan New Year's Eve parties for Russian children and hand out gifts.

Mexico: While Santa Claus does travel to Mexico to hand out gifts, they're also distributed by El Nino Dio (Baby Jesus). Depending on the region, either Santa or El Nino Dios may bring the bulk of the gifts.

Sweden: Jultomten, Sweden's answer to Santa Claus, is actually a hybrid of Santa, Julbocken (a Swedish Christmas goat) and a garden gnome. Jultomten visits homes on Christmas Eve and asks "Are there any good children here?" before unloading gifts from his pack.