The History of Christmas Presents

Pagan Origins

Many ancient societies celebrated festivals to honor their gods at the time of the winter solstice, which falls around the time of Christmas. These celebrations often included the exchange of gifts, usually from patrons to their dependents. It is believed by many that the practice of gift giving was incorporated into the Christian holiday of Christmas in order to ease the transition of pagan societies to the new religion.

According to the Bible, three Magi (wise men from the east) came to visit the newborn Jesus. These wise men brought gifts to offer to the child. Gift giving at Christmas is recognized by many as a remembrance of this event and is intended to remind believers of God's gift to them in the form of his son, Jesus Christ.

St. Nicholas was a fourth-century bishop in Asia Minor. He was renowned for his kindness and generosity, especially to children, and would often give them treats and small presents. A legend revolves around the saint in which he aided a poor widower who could not afford a dowry for his daughters. It is said that St. Nicholas tossed bags of gold down the chimney, which landed in stockings hung by the fire to dry. St. Nicholas evolved into our modern-day Santa Claus.

Societies around the world adopted gift-giving traditions such as hanging stockings to be filled with treats and giving and receiving other gifts. It is believed most countries were participating in this tradition by the tenth century. Generally, gifts were homemade toys or food items. Special treats, such as oranges, were common gifts. The industrial revolution brought a shift from homemade gifts to manufactured items.

In today's society, the meaning and traditions behind gift giving are often forgotten. Participants may or may not have any religious affiliation, and Santa Claus has become a secular symbol of Christmas. By and large, gift giving is seen as a way to show love and/or appreciation for friends and family.