Across the world, Christmas gift-giving is shaped by folklore, religion, climate, storytelling and centuries of cultural evolution.
While the modern “Santa Claus” is widely recognised globally, dozens of regions maintain their own beloved gift-bearing figures, each with their own names, traditions, dates, symbolism, and rituals.
At Allwag Promotions, we work with a wide range of companies that have clients and teams around the world. Celebrate their culture this festive season with a gift that truly represents it, whether that’s with branded mince pies for UK-based companies, custom gingerbread biscuits for clients in Germany or a warming candle for those embracing hygge in Scandinavia.
Explore this guide to discover the gifting traditions your recipients will celebrate!
Father Christmas has origins that long predate the modern Santa Claus. The character originally represented feasting, good cheer, and hospitality instead of gift giving. Over the course of the Victorian period, Father Christmas' persona slowly merged with the growing American image of Santa Claus to become the figure we know today.
Father Christmas is the embodiment of cosiness, merriment, hospitality, and making merry. Explore our Christmas gifting range to find the right gifts for your colleagues and clients.
Santa Claus in the United States has grown into a much-loved cultural figure, shaped over time by Dutch traditions, British Father Christmas, and old Norse stories.
Share the festive spirit with your American clients and colleagues by choosing seasonal promotional items.
Sinterklaas is one of the oldest and most traditional festive figures in Europe. Inspired by St Nicholas, he is deeply rooted in Dutch culture. Unlike Santa Claus, he arrives in the Netherlands in mid-November by steamboat from Spain, leading up to December 5th, known as Sinterklaasavond or “Present Evening”.
Corporate Sinterklaas gifting ideas: branded stationery, trolley coins, or USB sticks.
Der Weihnachtsmann ("The Christmas Man") brings gifts on December 24th, while St Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6th.
German-inspired gifting: Christmas Mug Combo, Recycled Plastic Bauble.
The Christkind is an angelic figure delivering presents on Christmas Eve.
Branded gift ideas: Plant Based Wax Candle, Vintage Ceramic Mug.
Los Reyes Magos (Three Kings) bring gifts on January 6th. Traditions include leaving shoes, Rosca de Reyes cake, and gifts hidden with playful symbolism.
Magi-inspired gifts: A5 Week to View Diary, Double Wall Mug.
La Befana is a kind witch who brings gifts on Epiphany, January 6th.
Gifts from La Befana: Ivy GRS Certified rPET Blanket and Fragrance Candle in a Decorative Tin.
Iceland folklore tells a tale of thirteen mischievous, troll-like brothers known as the Yule Lads, who visit children one by one from December 12th through 24th.
Yule Lad-themed gifting: branded spoons, printed bowls and other branded merchandise.
Finnish folklore tells the story of Joulupukki, a figure who grew out of the ancient Yule Goat. He has since transformed into a friendly gift-giver.
Nordic-themed corporate gifts: Tote Bags, Star Tea Filter and branded blankets.
Nisse and Tomten are household spirits from Norse mythology, and Julemanden is the Danish Santa Claus.
Scandi-inspired corporate gifts: branded chocolate, warm gloves and bamboo products.
Père Noël visits children on Christmas Eve or morning.
Branded gifts inspired by these traditions: Sustainable Soft Toys and Chocolate Santa.
Agios Vasilis (St Basil) brings gifts on January 1st, focusing on blessings and new beginnings.
Gifts for Greek clients and employees: sustainable diaries and journals, and sustainable travel mugs.
Papai Noel is the Brazilian version of Santa Claus, and “Amigo Secreto” (Secret Friend) is a gift exchange tradition among family, friends, and coworkers.
Corporate gifting ideas: tropical-inspired gift sets and personalised items for employees.
Whatever your region or your clients’ preferences, gifting can celebrate culture, delight recipients, and leave a lasting impression. Choose thoughtfully, and your brand will be remembered long after the festive season.
Enjoyed this guide? Continue reading the next in our festive series:
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