If Santa really traveled the world, his passport would be bursting at the seams—creased pages, glittery stamps, and probably a little cookie frosting smudged on the cover.
While Americans imagine Santa in a red suit sliding down chimneys, other countries picture holiday gift-givers very differently. Let’s hop on Santa’s imaginary sleigh-plane and see how Christmas looks around the globe.
(No chimney required.)
Santa’s first stop? Germany—but he arrives early.
On December 6, children carefully polish their shoes and place them outside the door for St. Nikolaus. Good behavior earns chocolates and small gifts. Less-than-stellar behavior? Well… let’s just say reminders are delivered firmly but fairly.
🎒 Santa’s note: “I love a culture that values clean shoes and good manners.”
In France, Père Noël skips the milk-and-cookies routine. Instead, children often leave carrots—perfect fuel for a hardworking donkey.
French Christmas traditions lean toward long meals, candlelit tables, and meaningful time together rather than piles of presents.
🥕 Santa’s note: “Reindeer-approved snacks are a nice change.”
In Italy, Santa shares the stage with La Befana, who delivers gifts on January 6. Legend says she’s still searching for baby Jesus—dropping off treats (or coal!) along the way.
Kids may celebrate twice, proving Italians understand that holidays should never be rushed.
🧹 Santa’s note: “She flies. I respect it.”
In Spain, Santa steps aside for Los Reyes Magos—the Three Kings—who arrive with parades, music, and gifts on January 5–6.
Children leave out their shoes (again—Europe really loves shoes) and wake up to surprises after the celebrations.
👑 Santa’s note: “Three kings, one job—solid teamwork.”
Christmas in Japan is all about joy, lights, and togetherness, not religion. Santa pops up in malls and schools, while cities glow with stunning illumination displays.
And yes—Christmas dinner often includes fried chicken. Santa is… intrigued.
✨ Santa’s note: “Next year, I’m staying for dinner.”
In Brazil, Santa (known as Papai Noel) arrives to summer heat—not snow. With Christmas falling during beach season, there’s no chimney required. Children may leave out shoes or sandals instead, and celebrations often include fireworks, music, and a late-night feast on Christmas Eve.
Many families attend Missa do Galo (Midnight Mass) before gathering for food, laughter, and gifts—sometimes well past midnight.
🩴 Santa’s note: “Delivering presents in flip-flops is surprisingly efficient.”
If Santa really did circle the globe, he’d discover something important:
Christmas doesn’t look the same everywhere—but belonging, generosity, and connection do.
For exchange students and host families, these traditions turn everyday moments into cultural exchange—whether it’s sharing a meal, explaining a custom, or laughing about why shoes keep showing up everywhere.
So if Santa had a passport, it wouldn’t just be full of stamps.
It would be full of stories.