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 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.
Corporate 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.
Corporate gifting: A5 Week to View Diary, Double Wall Mug.
La Befana is a kind witch who brings gifts on Epiphany, January 6th.
Corporate gifting: Ivy GRS Certified rPET Blanket, 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. Each lad has a cheeky personality and naughty habit, creating a playful atmosphere during the festive season.
Corporate gifting: branded spoons, printed bowls, branded merchandise.
Enjoyed this guide? Continue reading the next in our festive series:
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