10 Different Versions Of Santa Claus From Around The World

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.

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3. Belsnickel, South-Western Germany You might know this figure from 'The Office.'  And yes, everything Dwight says about Belsnickel is FACT.

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4. Christkind, Central Europe Created by Martin Luther, pioneer of Protestantism, this version of Santa is recognized in many parts of Central Europe

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5. Ded Moroz, Russia Loosely translated to "Old Man Frost", this interpretation of Santa Claus is also recognised in some parts of Ukraine

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6. Krampus, Germany Not all versions of Santa are jolly. This horrifying counterpart of Santa has a forked tongue and punishes naughty children.

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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.

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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