Santa Claus's reindeer

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Santa Claus Parade Toronto 2009 (2)

The Children's friend. Number III. A New-Year's present, to the little ones from five to twelve. Part III (1821), page 1

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A Visit From St Nicholas - Troy Sentinel (cropped)

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A Visit From St. Nicholas, by Clement C Moore (cropped)

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Excerpt from "A Visit from St Nicholas", as printed in An American Anthology, 1787–1900

Santa Claus's reindeer are a team of flying reindeer traditionally held to pull the sleigh of Santa Claus and help him deliver Christmas gifts to children around the world. The origin of Santa Claus's reindeer can be traced back to 1823, with the publication of the poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (more commonly known today as "The Night Before Christmas") by Clement Clarke Moore. This poem is credited with naming and popularizing the eight reindeer that are now commonly associated with Santa Claus's Christmas Eve journey.

Origin and History

The concept of Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas, has evolved over centuries, incorporating various traditions from different cultures. The reindeer specifically are believed to have been introduced into the Santa Claus legend in the 19th century in the United States. Before the introduction of reindeer, Santa Claus was depicted in various ways, including as a figure who traveled on foot or in a horse-drawn vehicle.

The original eight reindeer introduced by Moore's poem are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner (originally spelled "Donder" or "Dunder"), and Blitzen (originally spelled "Blixem" or "Blixen"). The names Donner and Blitzen derive from Dutch words for thunder and lightning, respectively.

In 1939, Robert L. May introduced a ninth reindeer, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, in a booklet written for Montgomery Ward. Rudolph's shiny red nose is capable of illuminating the path through harsh winter weather and has since become arguably the most famous of Santa's reindeer.

Cultural Impact

Santa Claus's reindeer have become an integral part of Christmas folklore, symbolizing the magic and wonder of the holiday season. They are featured in a wide range of media, including songs, movies, and literature, further cementing their role in Christmas traditions. The story of Rudolph, in particular, has been adapted into several forms, including a popular song by Johnny Marks and a television special that has been a holiday staple since 1964.

Characteristics and Traits

Each of Santa's reindeer is often attributed with specific characteristics or personalities, especially in various adaptations of the story. For example, Dasher is frequently portrayed as fast and eager, while Vixen is often depicted as slightly mischievous. Rudolph, with his glowing red nose, is usually characterized as a once-ostracized reindeer who becomes a hero.

In Popular Culture

Santa Claus's reindeer are a popular subject for Christmas decorations, including outdoor displays, ornaments, and greeting cards. They also appear in educational materials aimed at teaching children about the holiday season and its traditions.

See Also

• Santa Claus
• Christmas
• Reindeer
• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer