Christmas 2025 Traditions: Every year on 25 December, the festival of Christmas is celebrated with great pomp all over the world. The biggest identity of this festival is Santa Claus with white beard and red-white attire. But did you know that Santa didn’t always wear red? Centuries-old history and deep religious significance are hidden behind it.
Interestingly, the color of Santa Claus’s clothes was not always red. In European depictions before the 19th century, Saint Nicholas (the original form of Santa) was often shown in green, blue, or brown bishop’s robes. At that time, Santa’s attire varied across cultures and regions according to local traditions.
There is a popular belief about Santa’s present day appearance that it is the result of an advertising campaign of the Coca-Cola Company in the 1930s. Although the color red was already associated with Santa, Coca-Cola artist Hayden Sundblom created this ‘cheerful and chubby’ Popularized the image all over the world with red-white clothes. In the 20th century, due to media and globalization, this image of Santa became ubiquitous.
In Christianity, red color is considered extremely sacred and special. This color symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and his blood shed for the salvation of humanity. Red color also represents selfless love, compassion and spiritual strength. For this reason, priests in churches often wear red clothes on special religious occasions. At the same time, the white color present in Santa’s clothes is considered a symbol of peace, purity and winter snow.
During Christmas, not only Santa but also churches, homes and markets are seen in red color. Red is used extensively in Christmas tree decorations, ribbons, candles and gift wrapping. This color not only enlivens the celebration but also reminds people of Jesus’ message of love and brotherhood. Thus, this attire of Santa is a beautiful blend of history, culture and belief.
