QI Chistmas facts!

[HeyWayne]

May well be urban myth, but I'm sure "Santa Claus" is a mis-pronunciation of Sinta Klass who originates from Holland.

Our Dutch girlie friend (sadly departed) told us of the story of Sinta Klass and Black Peter.

[Two_Sheds]

Coca Cola did not invent Santa's red suit

[HayleyB]

And Santa obviously likes a tipple or two 'cause he has a red nose.

[Hilary B]

There is some question as to whether "Saint Nicholas" (Santa Claus or variations) was of Dutch or Turkish origin. In fact he should (strictly speaking) be delivering presents on Dec 6th, as I understand is the tradition in Holland.
Many of the Christmas traditions were adopted from pre-Christian faiths (if you can't beat them adopt their festivities) although they don't necessarily much resemble the original version any more.

[Sheepish]

The first British monarch to make a Christmas broadcast was George V on radio in 1932.

[Seahorse]

Every year NORAD (The North American Aerospace Defense Command) tracks Santa's progress delivering presents.

In recent years, NORAD have tracked Santa online too. We love watching his progress round the globe (I keep checking even when the kids have gone to bed ).