- In the US, it’s common for children to leave Santa Claus milk and cookies.
- But this tradition looks different for children around the world.
- In Ireland, some families leave Santa a pint of Guinness.
From the Yule Lads of Iceland to the traditionally green-clad Father Christmas of the UK, the Santa Claus Americans are accustomed to looks a little different throughout the rest of the world, and so do certain Christmas traditions.
While it’s common for people around the world to leave their gift-giver a treat for their arrival, the choice of snacks and drinks vary.
Many American children, for example, are known to leave milk, cookies, and the occasional reindeer-friendly snack, such as a carrot, but it’s common for kids to leave Santa Claus a stronger drink — like beer or wine — in European countries such as France and Ireland. And for children in Germany, snacks are skipped altogether in favor of handwritten letters.
Whether you’re looking to mix up your Santa’s snacks or just learn something new this holiday season, here’s a peek at how Christmas is celebrated around the world through 12 treats families leave for the man with the bag.
