Santa Claus

Written by Adrian Mak

Edited by Christie Lam

What might ‘as white as snow’ mean to you? Could this be a literal description of an object being physically as white as snow? Or could it mean something deeper and much more philosophical?

Imagine, the Halloween decoration are being taken down, you’re walking to school, and there’s a familiar chill in the air. What is the first festival that pops up in your head? Perhaps it is the one where an old man with a majestic long white beard climbs down your chimney, distributing gifts in return for a glass of warm milk and the cookies you left on the table. That’s right, I’m talking about Christmas—a festival centred around our beloved Saint Nick. And I don’t think you would believe me when I say that Father Christmas, also known as Santa, did not originally don a red coat. Have you ever wondered what colours he wore?

Now, grab yourself a cup of hot chocolate and sit by the fireplace while I tell you all about our Father Christmas. Let’s begin by answering a key question: where is Santa from? Well, he was originally based on a Christian bishop by the name of Saint Nicholas who originated from Myra, which is known nowadays as Turkey. Saint Nicholas was famous for his limitless generosity and kindness which led to an endless number of stories popping up around the country about him. As travelers migrated around Europe, The tales of Saint Nicholas eventually spread around like the plague. The stories eventually made their way to land of the free from the Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam, or as the modern world would call it: New York. American journalists saw the Dutch settlers celebrating Sinterklaas, thus creating the English translation: ‘Santa Claus’. This then became the catalyst for the creation of what’s widely known as America’s festival of giving and receiving, but also for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.

I believe that we still haven’t answered the question: “What colour was Santa Claus originally wearing?” But relax, as I’ll be explaining the origin of the iconic colours he is associated with. This first appearance of Santa Claus was allegedly reported during the 16th century, when he was depicted as a large man in a green coat that resembled a Balsam Fir, also known as the most common type of Christmas tree. Later on, the portrayal of Santa Claus dressed like a green ornament was eventually continued by Thomas Nast, who popularised the red suit which was 4 decades prior to the ‘Coca-Cola suit’.

Although we’ve finished our little story on Santa Claus, I’m assuming that we’re left with a million more questions, including: “How does this connect to as white as snow?” Innocence is also associated with Santa and Christmas, as the people that look forward to Christmas the most are often children who believe in the tale of a man that brings good children presents. Although most of us know the tale it isn’t true, we still keep it a secret from the younger generations, in order to preserve their innocence and purity.