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Christmas stocking facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
ChristmasStockingsHung wb
Stockings on a fireplace mantel.
ChristmasStocking
A Christmas stocking hung on a bedpost.
Photograph of Socks the Cat Sitting next to a Christmas Stocking Embroidered with the Name Socks- 12-21-1993 (6461509613) (cropped1)
Socks Clinton (the White House cat of the Clinton family) lays with his stocking

A Christmas stocking is a special empty sock or bag shaped like a sock. People hang it on Christmas Eve. The idea is that Santa Claus (or Father Christmas) will fill it with small gifts. These gifts often include toys, candy, fruit, or coins. Some families even hang their stockings by their beds. This way, Santa can fill them while everyone sleeps.

The History of Christmas Stockings

Have you ever wondered where the idea of Christmas stockings came from? There are no old written records that tell us exactly how this tradition started. However, there are many popular stories and legends. These tales try to explain the history of the Christmas stocking. One famous legend tells of Saint Nicholas. He secretly helped a poor family by dropping gold coins down their chimney. The coins landed in socks that were drying by the fireplace. This kind act is said to be the start of hanging stockings.

Making Your Own Christmas Stocking

Many families enjoy making their own Christmas stockings. They often decorate them with each family member's name. This helps Santa Claus know which stocking belongs to whom! It's a fun way to personalize the tradition. Creating your own stocking adds a special touch to the holiday. It also makes receiving gifts even more exciting.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Bota navideña para niños

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Christmas stocking Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.