Midwinter festivals have been a part of people’s lives for centuries. Who wouldn’t want to bring a little merriment to these drearier days when the earth is resting. We put on fanciful clothing, give gifts, and decorate our abodes to liven the season. Gift giving is an important part of this season, for it shows how grateful we are for all that we have enjoyed and experienced throughout the year.
Our iconic gift givers have changed throughout the years and vary from region to region. In Holland the gift bearer is Sinterklaas. Children put out their shoes with a treat for his horse, and in hopes of a gift. Among traditional holiday ornaments, children may make pin-wheels and garlands of beads to create holiday decorations.
While Santa Claus figures and gift bearers may vary from country to country, and their personas have evolved from different legends, one thing remains the same; children look forward to this time of year and the joy that the season brings.
SinterKlaas is depicted traveling throughout the city as the red robed bishop, and Holland has one of the largest parades celebrating his coming. But the gift bearer I have created here is dressed in traditional Holland costume and bears a basket full of goodies. Holiday figures and decorations can be created from the eye of the beholder, and I think that is part of the magic of the season. Whatever you want your holiday home decor to look like there is no doubt an abundance of Christmas creations to help you build your vision.