St. Nicholas Day  (December 6):  This holiday is mainly celebrated in Germany, the Netherlands and in nearby countries.  On this day Sinter Claes visits with his helper, Black Peter, and fills the shoes of the children with coal and switches for the naughty and fruit and chocolate for those who have been good.  St. Nicholas was an actual historical figure, who made small gifts for the poor children of his village, and became a symbol of giving.

Hanukkah (December 8 - 15):  This holiday is called the festival of lights, and lasts for 8 nights.  During this time, lights are lit on the entrance to every Jewish home, special "Chanukah Money" is given to the children, the Children play with the "dreidel" (combination of a top and a dice), and eat latkes and doughnuts.  For more about Hanukkah, click here.

Santa Lucia  (December 13):  In Scandanavia, the eldest (or youngest) daughter rises before dawn and fixes a breakfast of special pastries and coffee for her family. She appears in their bedrooms, dressed in a white dress belted with a red sash, and wearing a wreath of greens and lighted candles.

Winter Solstice  (December 22):  In China the shortest, darkest day of the year is celebrated with families gathering for a feast to celebrate surviving the winter.

Christmas  (December 25):  This holiday is the biggest holiday of the year for many families around the world.  It is a family time, where people give gifts to their loved ones, make cookies and special cakes and puddings.  The yule log may be lit, and a big meal of roast beef or turkey will be celebrated with the extended family and close friends.  Many children believe that Santa Claus visits on Christmas Eve, bringing presents on a sleigh pulled by eight reindeer.  For more on Christmas, click here.