The onset of winter always fills cities with a special atmosphere. But if in Russia everyone is looking forward to Father Frost and the Snow Maiden, then in other countries holiday guests look completely different. Somewhere the gifts are brought by a saint, somewhere by a magical old woman or even a scary creature with rods. However, all these characters have something in common – they embody kindness, hope and a sense of celebration, uniting the world in anticipation of a miracle, reports EAOMedia.
Finland: Joulupukki, “Christmas goat”
Finnish Joulupukki is a representation of a winter wizard with a northern character. His name translates as “Christmas goat”, and initially he really had a terrifying appearance. However, over time, the stern spirit turned into a benevolent grandfather in a red caftan who lives in Lapland. A whole tourist center has been created there – the village of Joulupukki, where children from all over the world come. The local post office receives hundreds of thousands of letters every year, and Joulupukki himself loves to greet guests, take photographs and tell stories by the fireplace. In Finland, he is considered not just a wizard, but a symbol of northern kindness and comfort.
USA: Santa Claus and his reindeer
In America, New Year and Christmas begin with the anticipation of Santa Claus – a cheerful old man with a red suit and a bag of gifts, who flies on a sleigh driven by eight reindeer. The image of Santa was formed from many legends, primarily based on the Dutch Saint Nicholas. On the night of December 24-25, he goes down the chimney, leaves gifts under the tree and disappears as quickly as he appeared. Every family traditionally leaves a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for him – so that he can rest on his magical journey. For millions of children, Santa is the embodiment of fairy-tale anticipation that makes winter truly magical.
Germany: Weinachtsman and his strict companion
The German Weinachtsman is a classic Christmas grandfather, but with a national flavor. He comes on foot or riding a donkey and gives gifts on December 24, but he is accompanied by a character with a completely different character – Knecht Ruprecht. This stern companion carries a bag of coal and a bundle of rods to remind naughty children of the consequences of bad behavior. In some regions of Germany, Weinachtsman has other analogues – for example, St. Nicholas or Christkind, the angel in white who brings gifts. Germany strictly honors traditions, so here winter is greeted with special fairs, the aroma of gingerbread and the constant expectation of a New Year's miracle.
Italy: Befana – the witch with a kind heart
In Italy, gifts are given by Befana – a kind old woman who flies on a broom on the night of January 5-6. According to legend, the Magi called her to see the Infant Christ, but she did not have time and since then has been wandering around the world, giving gifts to children. The obedient ones get sweets and toys, and the naughty ones get a piece of coal. Befana flies on a shabby broom, like a real witch, dispersing the night wind. In Italian homes, children hang stockings by the fireplace in the evening, and parents decorate the rooms with garlands familiar to everyone from childhood. The image of Befana combines Christmas spirituality and the Italian love of warmth, family and small joys.
China: Shen Dan Lao Ren – the old man of Christmas
In China, Christmas and New Year have their own characteristics. Here the wizard's name is Shen Dan Lao Ren – “the old man of Christmas.” He is dressed in red silk robes and distributes gifts to children in large cities where Western traditions have taken root along with New Year's decorations. Although the Chinese New Year is officially celebrated according to the lunar calendar, the Western holiday has become popular among young people as a symbol of beauty, sparkle and celebration. The Chinese happily decorate shop windows, put up artificial Christmas trees and exchange souvenirs, while maintaining their national warmth and moderation.
Japan: Hoteisho – Guardian of Happiness
Japan does not have Santa Claus in the usual sense, but it does have its own hero – Hoteisho, one of the seven deities of luck. He is portrayed as a good-natured, fat man with a bag of gifts and a wide smile. For the Japanese, it symbolizes happiness, peace and abundance. Although Western Christmas is celebrated mainly by young couples and families in large cities, the Japanese themselves attach special significance to their New Year – Shogatsu. On these days, houses are decorated with pine branches, offerings are made to the gods and they wish each other success. The result is an amazing combination of ancient traditions and modern festive culture.
