Credits: Wikimedia Commons
1. Amu Nowruz, Iran This figure from Iranian folklore appears at the start of spring to celebrate Iranian New Year, Nowruz
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
2. Befana, Italy This Italian female version of Santa Claus visits children annually on Epiphany Eve on 5th January.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
3. Belsnickel, South-Western Germany You might know this figure from 'The Office.' And yes, everything Dwight says about Belsnickel is FACT.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
4. Christkind, Central Europe Created by Martin Luther, pioneer of Protestantism, this version of Santa is recognized in many parts of Central Europe
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
5. Ded Moroz, Russia Loosely translated to "Old Man Frost", this interpretation of Santa Claus is also recognised in some parts of Ukraine
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
6. Krampus, Germany Not all versions of Santa are jolly. This horrifying counterpart of Santa has a forked tongue and punishes naughty children.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
7. Mikulas, Europe Ths different version of Santa Claus rewards good children with gifts and bad children with lumps of coal. He is recognised in certain parts of Europe.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
8. Olentzero, Basque Country This mythical figure originated around the 17th century and gives gifts to local children at Christmas.
Credits: Flickr, Hiruka Komunikazio
9. Sinterklaas, Netherlands Based on the 4h century Greek Christian Bishop St. Nicholas, this figure is known for rewarding good children.
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
10. Tomte, Northern Europe Originating from the Scandinavian folklore, this figure is depicted as a garden-gnome looking dwarf.
Credits: Flickr, Jpellgen