Learn what Santa Claus’ name is in a different language

In South Africa we know Santa Claus’ as Father Christmas or just as Santa, but the figure in his red suit actually has various other names.

The concept actually originated from Saint Nicholas, a patron saint famous for giving generous gifts to the poor.

Here are 10 different names for Santa Claus from around the world.

English – Santa Claus/Father Christmas – This is normally used in the United Kingdom, Canada and United States of America.

American (English) – Kris Kringle – In the United States of America and Canada some people call him Kris Kringle.

French – Père Noël/Papa Noël – Some places in the east of France, Santa Claus is accompanied by Le Père Fouettard, who is said to be a man dressed in black, who punishes children if they misbehave.

Spanish – Papa Noël

German – Weihnachtsmann

Italian – Babbo Natale

Portuguese – Papai Noël- In certain parts of Brazil, some children leave a sock near a window. When Papai Noël finds their socks in the window he will exchange it for a present.

Russian – Ded Moroz – Actually in Russia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7.

Turkish – Noel Baba – In Turkey Christmas is not widely celebrated, yet some families celebrate Christmas traditions on New Year’s Eve.

Polish – Święty Mikołaj

There you have it, different names for Santa Claus from around the world.