The origins of Santa Claus

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The Origins, History, and Global Traditions of Santa Claus 🎅

Did you know that Santa Claus has more than one Christmas Eve? Due to time zones and the rotation of the Earth, Santa actually has 31 hours to deliver presents if he travels east to west. Additionally, Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas Eve on January 6th, giving Santa a second round of deliveries!

Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, and Kris Kringle, is one of the most beloved holiday figures worldwide. But where did his legend begin? Let’s explore the origins, history, and global traditions of Santa Claus.

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🎄 Santa Claus Around the World

🌍 Santa is known by many names globally, including:

• Saint Nicholas (Western Europe & Christian traditions)
• Père Noël (France)
• Weihnachtsmann (Germany)
• Babbo Natale (Italy)
• Ded Moroz (Russia & Eastern Europe)
• Papai Noel (Brazil & Portugal)
• Julenissen (Scandinavia)

🎁 Not All Children Receive Gifts from Santa!
Santa only delivers gifts to children who believe in him, which means that approximately 50-55% of the world’s children—primarily in Christian communities—expect a visit. In some cultures, gift-giving traditions differ:

• 🎅 Poland: St. Nicholas Day (December 6th) is a day for gifts from Święty Mikołaj (St. Nicholas).
• 🎄 Spain & Latin America: Gifts are exchanged on January 6th for Three Kings’ Day (Día de los Reyes Magos).
• ❄️ Russia & Ukraine: Santa-like figure Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) delivers gifts on New Year’s Eve instead of Christmas.

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🎅 The Origins of Santa Claus – From Saint to Mythical Gift-Giver

The story of Santa Claus traces back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop from Myra (modern-day Turkey). Known for his generosity and devotion to children, his legend spread throughout Europe, making him the Patron Saint of Children and Travelers.

✨ Key Moments in the Evolution of Santa Claus:

• 12th Century: The Feast of St. Nicholas (December 6th) was officially established as a day of gift-giving and charity.
• Protestant Reformation (16th Century): While devotion to Saint Nicholas declined in much of Europe, Dutch traditions of Sinterklaas survived.
• 17th Century: Dutch settlers brought "Sinterklaas" to America, where the name evolved into Santa Claus.
• 1822: Clement C. Moore’s poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ (a.k.a. The Night Before Christmas) shaped the modern image of Santa:
  • “He had a broad face and a little round belly”
  • “He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf”
• 19th & 20th Centuries: Santa’s red suit and sleigh-pulled reindeer became iconic, thanks to Coca-Cola ads and Christmas illustrations.

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🦌 The Legend of Krampus – Santa’s Dark Companion

Not all holiday traditions are cheerful! In Austrian, German, and Alpine folklore, Krampus is a horned, demonic figure who punishes naughty children while Santa rewards the good ones.

🔥 Krampusnacht (Krampus Night) on December 5th is a spooky Christmas tradition where people dressed as Krampus parade through the streets, scaring misbehaving children before St. Nicholas arrives on December 6th.

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🎁 Santa’s Christmas Magic – Myth or Reality?

Santa’s legend continues to evolve, blending history, folklore, and pop culture. Whether you believe in the real Saint Nicholas, embrace the magic of Santa’s Christmas Eve deliveries, or enjoy the spooky tales of Krampus, there’s no denying the enduring power of holiday traditions.

🌟 Want to learn more about holiday legends and global Christmas traditions? Stay tuned for more festive history and folklore!

Marvel Experience: Produced by Hero Ventures coming to Arizona

The Marvel Experience – A High-Tech Superhero Adventure

📍 Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Scottsdale, AZ
📅 Arizona Dates: December 19, 2014 – January 3, 2015
🎟️ Ticket Discounts: Military 2-for-1 deal & Group Savings (15+ people save 10%)

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What Is The Marvel Experience?

Step into the Marvel Universe and become a deputized S.H.I.E.L.D. agent in this cutting-edge interactive attraction! Featuring more than 20+ iconic Marvel characters, including:

• 🕷️ Spider-Man
• ⚡ Iron Man
• 🛡️ Captain America
• ⚒️ Thor
• 💪 Hulk
• 🖤 Black Widow

Prepare to battle HYDRA, Red Skull, M.O.D.O.K., and the evil Adaptoids in a one-of-a-kind, hyper-reality superhero experience.

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Marvel Experience Attractions – What to Expect

🌍 Spanning 3 Acres & 7 Interactive Domes!
🚀 Life-Size Avengers Quinjet – Get up close with S.H.I.E.L.D.'s elite aircraft!
🕹️ 360° 3-D Projection Dome – A fully immersive, cinematic Marvel experience!
🧗 Spider-Man Climbing Wall – Test your agility like Peter Parker (must weigh 50+ lbs).
🔫 Holo-Blaster Training Simulator – Fight off HYDRA agents in a virtual battle!
🎢 4-D Motion Ride – Feel the thrill of an action-packed Marvel mission!
💥 RFID Super Power Band – Tracks your personal progress, skills, and achievements throughout the event.

Using state-of-the-art technology, The Marvel Experience blends augmented reality (AR), motion simulation, 3-D projection, and interactive gaming to create a theme park-style adventure for all ages.

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Important Marvel Experience Event Details

🕰️ Time Required: 4-6 hours to fully explore all attractions.
🎟️ Ticket Options: Available online via Ticketmaster or at the Dome Box Office.
🎥 Photography: Cameras are welcome, but no flash photography allowed.
🚶 Walking Event: No seating assignments – comfortable shoes are recommended.
🚗 Parking: $10 per vehicle.
🚼 No Strollers Admitted – families with young children should plan accordingly.
📏 Ride Restrictions:

• 4-D Ride: Minimum height 40 inches; pregnant women and small children can sit in folding chairs.
• Spider-Man Climbing Wall: 50 lbs minimum weight requirement.

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Marvel Experience 2015 U.S. Tour Schedule

🌟 Arizona: December 19, 2014 – January 3, 2015 – Salt River Fields, Scottsdale, AZ
🌟 Dallas, TX: January 15 – February 1, 2015
🌟 Del Mar, CA: February 7 – February 22, 2015
🌟 San Francisco, CA: February 27 – March 22, 2015

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Why Arizona Was Chosen for The Marvel Experience Kickoff

Arizona was selected as the first stop for Marvel Experience: Produced by Hero Ventures due to:
✅ Ideal weather conditions for an outdoor event.
✅ Proximity to major production companies in Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
✅ Large Marvel fanbase eager for an immersive superhero attraction.

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Final Thoughts – Is The Marvel Experience Worth It?

The Hype says "If you're a Marvel fan, this hyper-reality event is a must-see! From virtual battles against HYDRA to swinging like Spider-Man, it’s a fully immersive superhero experience you won’t want to miss.", but here is My Marvel Experience review.

🔥 Grab your tickets, assemble your team, and prepare to save the world with The Avengers!

If you are into comic books, check out this article!

2015 Arizona Renaissance Faire

Huzzah! King Henry invites thee to the 27th Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival!

Journey back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and splendor of a 16th-century village bursting with entertainment, adventure, and enchantment. Whether you're a noble knight, a daring rogue, or a fair maiden, the Arizona Renaissance Festival promises family-friendly fun, thrilling live performances, delicious food, and interactive experiences every weekend from February through March 2015!

An Unforgettable Medieval Adventure Awaits

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and legend as you stroll through the festival's bustling marketplace. Witness master artisans crafting unique works of their ancient trade, marvel at over 200 performers across 13 lively stages, and feast like royalty on hearty delights, including the festival's legendary roasted turkey legs.

The festival is filled with interactive street performances, hilarious comedy acts, and exhilarating jousting tournaments that will transport you straight into the heart of the Renaissance era.

Exciting New Entertainment & Attractions

This year, King Henry has summoned a brand-new spectacle—the Fireflicker show—featuring breathtaking fire performances that will leave you in awe!

🎭 Meet the Merrymakers: From jesters to minstrels and royal courtiers to daring knights, expect spontaneous encounters that turn every visitor into part of the magic.

⚔️ Jousting Tournaments: Cheer for your champion in heart-pounding, full-armored jousting battles between noble knights!

🍗 The Pleasure Feast: Indulge in a royal five-course feast, complete with medieval entertainment and live music.

🏹 Games of Skill & Thrills:

• Test your archery skills like Robin Hood.
• Take on the Climbing Tower for a true knight’s challenge.
• Hurl battle axes like a fierce warrior.
• Storm the castle in an epic paintball battle!
• Toss a tomato at an insulting peasant—if you dare!

Special Event Weekends – Mark Thy Calendar!

📅 February 7th & 8th: Opening Weekend – Let the Revelry Begin! Be the first to experience the magic!

💘 February 14th, 15th & 16th: Renaissance & Romance – Celebrate love medieval-style with special performances and romantic surprises.

🏴‍☠️ February 28th & March 1st: Pirate Invasion – A weekend full of swashbuckling adventure and high-seas hijinks!

☘️ March 14th & 15th: Celtic Weekend – Enjoy lively bagpipes, Irish dancers, and Celtic traditions!

🎭 March 28th & 29th: Final Huzzah! – The grand closing weekend filled with ultimate merriment and adventure!

Plan Your Visit to the Arizona Renaissance Festival

📍 Location: The festival takes place at the Arizona Renaissance Festival Grounds in Gold Canyon, AZ.

🎟️ Tickets: Find information on discounted tickets, group passes, and season passes online!

🍖 Food & Drink: Feast on authentic Renaissance-style delicacies and explore the newest Pleasure Feast menu!

🛍️ Vendors & Marketplace: Discover handcrafted wares, Renaissance fashion, and rare treasures from over 200 artisans.

🔗 Get the Latest Updates: Stay informed on festival news, ticket sales, and event highlights by checking out my other Arizona Renaissance Festival blog posts!

Don't miss out on Arizona's most exciting medieval festival! Grab your cloak, lace up your boots, and step into a world of adventure, romance, and revelry at the 2015 Arizona Renaissance Festival!

More interesting US Currency Facts

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For more interesting facts about things Printed on the One Dollar bill, visit Facts About U.S. Money.

• The US government first issued 'paper' money in 1861 to make up for a shortage of coins to help finance the Civil War, because People were hoarding gold and silver coins. 
• The first 'paper' bills were issued in Fractional Currency: 3, 5, 10, 15, 25, and 50 cent denominations. 

Coins

• A penny costs of 2.41 cents to produce; it costs the U.S. Mint about 11cents to make a nickel and almost 6 cents to make a dime. 
• You can see Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial on the penny.  
• Changing the US one dollar bill for a US one dollar coin would save the US government about $4.4 billion in the next 30 years.

One dollar bill

• One dollar bills make up between 45-48 percent of all bills printed by the U.S. government each year. 
• The average life of a dollar bill is between 18-21 months in circulation. 
•  It is said you can see a spider in the upper left-hand corner of the shield surrounding the 1, while an owl is hidden one each side of the word 'One Dollar' about half way between the number 1 and the letter O in One and R in Dollar. 
• The $1 bill’s famous nickname of “Greenback” originates from the Dollar Bill created by Abraham Lincoln in the late 1800s to finance the Civil War; These notes were printed in green on the back side. 
• Martha Washington is the only woman to have appeared on a U.S. currency note. She appeares on the face of the 1886 and 1891 $1 Silver Certificate and on the back of the $1 Silver Certificate issued in 1896.

Two dollar bill

• In 1963, the $2 bill Federal Reserve Notes were changed by removing “WILL PAY TO THE BEARER ON DEMAND” from the front and adding “IN GOD WE TRUST” to the back. The $2 bill was last issued in 2003.

Five dollar bill

• $5 bills last in circulation for around 15-18 months. 
• The number 172 can be seen on the back of the U.S. $5 dollar bill in the bushes at the base of the Lincoln Memorial. 
• The security thread in bills $5 and higher will turn blue if they are held under ultraviolet light 
• You can see 26 of the 50 states listed on the Lincoln Memorial on a five dollar bill.

Ten Dollar Bill

• Ten Dollar Bill was nicknamed a "sawbuck" because the Roman numeral for ten (X) bears resemblance to the legs of a sawbuck.

Twenty dollar bill

• $20 bills last in circulation for approximately 24 months.
• Pocahontas appears on the back of the $20 bill in 1875. 
• The twenty-dollar bill was referred to as a "double-sawbuck" because it is twice the value of a ten-dollar bill. 
• The elm tree on back of the $20 bill near the White House was a real tree, the tree is no longer on the White House grounds due to rain softened ground in 2006. 
• Andrew Jackson preferred coins over 'paper' currency, but appears on the $20 bill.

Fifty dollar bill

• Larger bills ($50, $100) can last in circulation up to 8 years. 
•  The micro printing and security thread found in currency today were first introduced in 1990 on the $50 and $100 bills. 
•  A fifty dollar bill is often called a "Grant" because it features a portrait of Ulysses S. Grant.

Hundred dollar bill

• A $100 bill has many nicknames: C-note, Benjamin, Franklin, Ben, Benjy, Benny. 
• The clock tower of Independence Hall in Philadelphia on the new $100 bill is right twice a day, the time set at 4:10.

Thousand dollar bill

• High-denomination bills ($500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000) are legal tender, but were last printed in 1945 and officially discontinued in July 1969 and would probably have to be "broke" at a bank. 
• In 1969 President Richard Nixon halted the circulation of the high-denomination bills in an effort to fight organized crime. 
• A record $2,255,000 was paid in December of 2006 for an 1890 thousand dollar bill. 
• The United States 1000 dollar bill features General George Gordon Meade, who commanded Union Army troops at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Hundred Thousand dollar bill

• The 100,000 dollar bill was printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in 1934 and was only used for transactions between Federal Reserve Banks. It is the highest denominated note ever produced by the United States.

Other Fun Facts

• Approx 94% of your cash has viruses and bacteria that can live for up to 17 days.
• Over 90% of your cash also contains traces of cocaine
• $30 billion in Monolpoly money is printed each year. The U.S. government only prints approx $974 million. 
• There is an estimated 1.2 trillion in coin and bills in circulation. The US debt is approx 14 times larger than the amount of currency in circulation, how's that for a credit card bill. 
• Approx 2/3 of US circulated money is held outside the United States. 
• If the Government just printed it's way out of debt, the hyper inflation would make the money worthless similar to 1923 Germany. Germany's money became so worthless it was given to kids to play with and even used as wall paper. 
• The "crack tax" was the name given to the Tennessee tax on illegal drugs. The law passed in January 2005, and applied to illegal substances like cocaine, marijuana, and moonshine. Drug dealers and bootleggers were required to pay taxes anonymously on profits and would receive a stamp to prove their payment. If the dealer was arrested and unable to provide a stamp the state would seek taxes. In 2009 the Tennessee Supreme Court judged that the "Crack Tax" is unconstitutional (because only legitimate employment should owe tax?). 
• North Korea is believed to be the biggest counterfeiter of US currency. 
•  Mr. Eighty Eight evaded capture from the Secret Service for 10 years by only printing about 40 one dollar bills a month and never spending them in the same place twice. His counterfeits were so bad that they even misspelled Washington's name. 
• The richest 1% (one percent) may own nearly half the world's wealth, but nearly half of lottery tickets are purchased by the same 5% of the population. 
• If you have a ten dollar bill in your pocket and no credit debts, then you are wealthier than 25% of Americans. 
• Before paper money, animal skins like deer and elk were used for trade, this might be where the word "buck" to designate a dollar came from.