The Not-So-Secret History of Secret Santa
One of the most awaited seasons of the year is finally here! Christmas is known for its colorful festivities and joy-filled traditions. A well-known example of this is Secret Santa, in which friends and family are each assigned to a person to whom they must give a gift. However, there’s a catch: the person you are giving to must not be aware that you are their “Secret Santa,” thus the name of the custom. One might wonder how exactly this entertaining tradition came to be. However, we might never be able to find out.
A popular belief about the origin of Secret Santa is that it all started with a man named Larry Dean Stewart, an American millionaire, who was best known for his acts of kindness along the streets of Kansas City. During December, he would randomly go to strangers and hand them money. From a single hundred bill to three or more, people would receive spontaneous gifts from this anonymous man. Since then, he was known as the “Secret Santa.” His acts of kindness inspired people to do the same and give to others as well.
Another theory is that Secret Santa came from the Scandinavian tradition known as “Julklapp.” Translated as “Christmas knock,” this tradition shows some resemblance to trick-or-treating. Locals would knock on their neighbors’ doors and leave gifts. This was done to show their appreciation through small tokens that were typically handmade. “Julklapp” were also accompanied by short riddles or poems that helped express the meaning of the gift.
Regardless of its origin, Secret Santa serves as one of the most memorable customs that happen during the last of the “ber” months. From something that started in the Western regions, it has grown into an annual activity that is done throughout the world. Through its many variations, people have been able to hone their skills in creativity and resourcefulness. It also tests one’s patience as participants attempt to keep their assigned partner a secret throughout the whole process.
Secret Santa has brought numerous families, friends, and communities together. It truly brings out the spirit of Christmas and gives people the opportunity to have fellowship with others. This event also allows us to remember why we have these celebrations in the first place. Gift-giving is not focused on what we receive, but on the people we receive them from. It all started from the kindness given by our Savior. That grace is what brought us all together and allowed us to start anew. It is meant to continuously be shared with everyone on this earth. So, this Christmas, may we all be able to spend time with those around us and most importantly, with the God who made this all possible.
