Santa's Family
Discovering Santa's Family: How Do Reindeer Fly and Their Magical Christmas Legacy
Every Christmas season, children and adults alike are mesmerized by the idea of flying reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh through the night sky, capturing the magic and warmth of the holiday season. But have you ever wondered how these magical creatures actually take flight—and who exactly is behind the magic of Santa Claus himself? Let’s explore the legend of Santa, his family, and the story of his airborne team.
The Magic Behind the Flight
Reindeer don’t fly like birds or airplanes—they soar through a combination of enchantment, Christmas spirit, and a sprinkle of North Pole magic. According to legend, the intense belief in the joy of giving during the holiday season creates an energy so powerful it can lift reindeer off the ground. Some stories say it’s a magical dust from Santa’s workshop, often crafted or enchanted by an elf, while others claim the love and excitement of children around the world fuels their flight.
Meet Santa’s Flying Reindeer
We can’t talk about flying reindeer without naming the heroes themselves! Traditionally, Santa’s team includes eight reindeer, as first popularized in the 1823 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas”:
Dasher – The speedster of the team, always dashing through the night sky.
Dancer – Graceful and elegant, bringing rhythm to the sleigh ride.
Prancer – Proud and energetic, always ready to leap into the air.
Vixen – Clever and spirited, with a spark of mischief.
Comet – Bright and swift, lighting up the sky like a shooting star.
Cupid – Gentle and loving, spreading warmth wherever he flies.
Donner (or Donder) – Strong and mighty, leading the charge through snowy skies.
Blitzen – Bold and lightning-fast, perfect for dashing through the clouds and swirling snow.
And of course, the ninth reindeer added by popular culture:
Rudolph – With his glowing red nose, he guides the sleigh through fog, storms, snow, and long winter nights.
Flying isn’t just a physical act—it’s emotional and magical. Many believe the collective joy and anticipation of children around the world helps fuel their flight.
Introducing Santa’s Family
Santa Claus isn’t just a jolly old man in a red suit—he has a rich family history that spans centuries and cultures. His legend draws inspiration from the ancient saint and patron saint known as Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop celebrated as a gift giver for his generosity, as well as Dutch folklore, Germanic traditions from Germany, and English storytelling. Santa is also known as Saint Nick, and in England, he is referred to as Father Christmas, a figure with deep roots in English holiday customs.
Mrs. Claus is perhaps the most beloved member of Santa’s family. Known for her kindness and gentle guidance, she helps manage the North Pole, ensuring the elves, reindeer, and toy-making run smoothly. Santa’s lineage, often called Santa’s family tree, is complex and has evolved over time, including connections to historical gift-givers and Saint Nicholas himself, highlighting a tradition of generosity and goodwill.
Over the centuries, artists like Larry Hersberger helped shape Santa’s iconic image—jolly, with a long white beard, and dressed in a red suit trimmed with white fur. Cultural traditions from around the world—from the Netherlands’ Sinterklaas, whose arrival is mythically linked to Spain, to Spain’s Los Tres Reyes Magos—also influenced the story of Santa Claus, unifying global celebrations of Christmas. In countries like Australia, unique Christmas traditions and celebrations for kids highlight the diversity of Santa's family around the world. In some traditions, multiple Santa Clauses appear in parades and community celebrations, emphasizing the collective spirit of the holiday. Santa's family traditions and the spirit of giving are celebrated year round, not just during the holiday season. Holly is often used as a traditional decoration in Santa's family home, symbolizing the Christmas spirit. Classic Christmas stories often feature a young boy who encounters Santa or Mrs. Claus, capturing the warmth and magic of these family tales.
Santa's Family Tree
Santa Claus’s family tree is a tapestry woven from centuries of history, legend, and joyful tradition. At its roots stands Saint Nicholas, the ancient patron saint of children, whose acts of kindness and generosity in 4th-century Greece inspired countless stories of giving. Known for his compassion and secret gift-giving, Saint Nicholas became a beloved figure in medieval Europe, and his legend blossomed into the heart of Christmas celebrations.
As the centuries passed, the story of Saint Nicholas traveled across borders and cultures, taking on new forms. In the Netherlands, he became Sinterklaas, a dignified figure who arrives each December on a white horse, bringing gifts to children and delighting families with his festive spirit. The Dutch colony of New Amsterdam—now New York—carried these traditions to the New World, where Sinterklaas’s legend mingled with local customs and English folklore.
Meanwhile, in England, Father Christmas emerged as a symbol of good cheer and merriment. Originally celebrated for bringing warmth and feasting to the adult world during the holiday season, Father Christmas gradually adopted the role of gift giver, merging with the image of Santa Claus. His jolly demeanor, long white beard, and red suit trimmed with white fur became iconic, especially as artists like Thomas Nast and the famous poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” helped shape the modern Santa in popular culture.
No family tree would be complete without Mrs. Claus, the gentle and nurturing partner who first appeared in American stories in the 19th century. Also known as Mother Christmas, she is the heart of Santa’s workshop, ensuring that every toy, stocking, and Christmas present is prepared with care. Her presence reminds us that the magic of Christmas is a family affair, filled with love, teamwork, and tradition.
Today, Santa Claus—also known as Kris Kringle, Saint Nick, or simply Santa—unites families and children around the world. From the snowy nights of December to the bright morning of Christmas Day, his legend brings together naughty children hoping for gifts, adults cherishing the magic of the season, and communities celebrating the joy of giving. The story of Santa’s family tree is a celebration of history, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Christmas.
As you gather with your own family this holiday season, take a moment to reflect on the rich heritage behind Santa Claus. Whether you’re hanging stockings, reading a favorite Christmas poem, or sharing stories of the right jolly old elf, remember that Santa’s family tree is a living tradition—one that continues to grow, inspire, and bring merry Christmas wishes to the world.
Larry Hersberger: Master of Magical Christmas Art
Larry Hersberger is a Canadian-born artist renowned for his detailed, storytelling artworks that capture the innocence and wonder of childhood. With over 35 years of experience, his work blends realism with a focus on narrative storytelling, often capturing moments of nostalgia and childhood innocence. Elms Puzzles
Known as one of the most influential Christmas and Santa artists of our time, Larry Hersberger is often likened to a modern Norman Rockwell. His work has been published on puzzles, boxes, cards, bags, textiles, fine art, chocolates, and other merchandise, contributing to their widespread recognition and publication. masterpieceartwork.com
His artworks, known as "Art of Magic & Light," are internationally licensed and featured in the prestigious PPA IPC collection. 1001puzzle.com
Redefining Santa Claus: From Mall Photos to Majestic Fine Art
Larry Hersberger revolutionized the portrayal of Santa Claus in photography by elevating him from the stereotypical mall Santa to a figure of majesty and wonder. His fine art approach, combined with meticulous set design, dramatic lighting, and digital artistry, creates images that evoke nostalgia, emotion, and enchantment. This transformation has set a new standard in holiday photography, inspiring photographers to approach holiday imagery with artistry and reverence.
A pivotal aspect of Hersberger’s success is his collaboration with MHS Licensing + Consulting. Represented by MHS, his artwork has been internationally licensed, appearing on puzzles, greeting cards, textiles, and collectibles (MHS Licensing). This has allowed his majestic depictions of Santa and other holiday themes to reach audiences worldwide, further solidifying his reputation as a leading artist in the holiday genre.
Larry's designs, including "Santa's List" and "Peace on Earth," have been licensed for fabric collections, available through many retailers. Also, his storytelling artworks are featured in their collection, offering puzzles that capture emotional moments and childhood innocence for example, on ELMS puzzles. Vermont Christmas Company Puzzles Featuring Larry Hersberger artwork is showcased his art for years now. Here are some purchasing options:
“Santa's Magic” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 1000
Description: This puzzle captures a heartwarming scene with Santa and children, embodying the magic of Christmas.
Purchase Options:
“Christmas Wishes” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 1000
Description: Features children sharing their Christmas wishes with Santa, set in a cozy holiday setting.
Purchase Options:
“Special Delivery” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 100
Description: Depicts Santa delivering a special gift, perfect for younger puzzlers.
Purchase Options:
“A Toy from Santa” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 1000
Description: Showcases Santa preparing a toy in his workshop, capturing the essence of Christmas Eve.
Purchase Options:
“Santa's Visit” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 550
Description: Features Santa visiting children in a warmly decorated room, a delightful holiday scene.
Purchase Options:
“Witches' Brew” by Larry Hersberger
Piece Count: 1000
Description: A Halloween-themed puzzle featuring whimsical witches, showcasing Hersberger's versatility
Purchase Options:
Beyond product licensing, Hersberger’s influence extends to education and mentorship through his Magical Santa Photography Academy, guiding photographers in capturing the essence of Santa through fine art photography and fostering appreciation for holiday storytelling.
Larry Hersberger Fine Art Santa Gallery
Here are some ways Larry Hersberger’s art is featured and licensed worldwide:
Puzzles & Games: Beautifully detailed jigsaw puzzles capturing the magic of Santa’s world (Elms Puzzles)
Greeting Cards & Stationery: Heartwarming imagery perfect for the holiday season (Masterpiece Artwork)
Textiles & Home Decor: Licensed prints on fabrics, ornaments, and collectibles
Fine Art Prints & Chocolates: Bringing Hersberger’s magical vision into homes globally
Educational Courses: His Magical Santa Photography Academy teaches photographers how to elevate holiday portraits into fine art
Santa’s Workshop: The Heart of the Magic
At the North Pole, Santa's workshop is the magical place where toys are made, bustling with elves crafting gifts for children worldwide. Santa's house at the North Pole is a cozy, magical home where he lives with Mrs. Claus. The North Pole community is filled with houses belonging to elves and reindeer, creating a collection of magical houses that bring the holiday spirit to life. The sleigh, guided by Santa’s family and flying reindeer, symbolizes the joy of giving and the spirit of togetherness that defines the season.
Holiday Traditions and Symbolism. Father Christmas Popular Culture.
Santa Claus and his reindeer are central to Christmas celebrations everywhere. From Christmas Eve gift deliveries to holiday feasts and family gatherings, their story reminds us of the joy of giving, kindness, and imagination. Santa is often described as a right jolly old elf and a white-bearded man, whose image was shaped by artists like Thomas Nast and popularized further by Coca Cola advertisements. The tradition of Santa has deep roots in the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam, now New York, where Sinterklaas evolved into the modern Santa, with York playing a key role in the development of his legend. The Nicholas Center is a valuable resource for learning about Saint Nicholas, whose legendary act of charity—giving three bags of gold—continues to inspire.
Symbolism: Santa represents generosity, warmth, and joy. His red suit and flying sleigh are recognized worldwide as icons of the holiday season. The Illustrated London News has featured historical depictions of Father Christmas, adding to his rich visual tradition.
Traditions: Children hang a stocking or stockings on Christmas Eve, traditionally by the fire, eagerly awaiting a Christmas present from Santa, evoking the classic image of Santa dropping gifts into stockings hung by the fireplace. Many children write a letter to Santa, sharing their wishes and hopes. Santa is known for keeping a list of who is naughty and who is nice, reminding naughty children to behave. Some gifts are signed from Santa, adding to the magic. Kris Kringle is another name for Santa, reflecting his diverse origins. Families leave cookies and milk for Santa, gather to celebrate, and embrace charitable acts, all inspired by the spirit of Claus kin. The fun and joy of these traditions bring families together, making Christmas Day special for all. The story of Santa influences life from childhood to the adult world, as adults help maintain the magic for new generations.
Flying reindeer, magical sleighs, and Santa’s devoted family all come together to create a story that transcends generations. The legend of Santa Claus reminds us that the true magic of Christmas lies in love, joy, and the giving of ourselves to others.