Christmas Treasure Hunt

How to create a Christmas Treasure Hunt (Tutorial and Examples).

In this article, I would like to share how you can use a Christmas treasure hunt to make this day a wonderful and happy day. I will provide you with the basics you need to know to start. Our Family and children’s families have been doing the Christmas treasure hunts for 30-plus years. The benefits we have continued to experience include

  • Extend the length of the Christmas morning experience for the Family
  • Help each person in the Family have a unique Christmas experience
  • Tailor the Christmas experience to each person
  • Incorporate religious meaning and teaching
  • Highlight giving between family members
  • Incorporate Santa Clause
  • Develop and maintain family traditions
  • Develop different themes for each Christmas year
  • Accommodates two or more family members

Christmas Treasure Hunt
Table of Contents

See also the article: How to Create Marvin the Reindeer, A New “Elf on the Shelf” Experience for Christmas Season

[TOC]

Christmas 1991 Changed Everything

It was 1991, and my wife and I had worked extra hard that year to make Christmas memorable for our children. By unique, I mean trying to accommodate and give each child a little extra special, something unique they wanted along with the clothes and things they needed. To make it happen, we had saved between $75 and $150 each month for Christmas. Our Christmas routine was something like

  • Start the shopping in October,
  • Hit the sales the day after Thanksgiving
  • Put the tree and decorations up on Thanksgiving weekend
  • Play Christmas music all month
  • Attend Christmas programs at school
  • Seek Santa Claus at the Mall
  • On Christmas Eve, gather with another family at the grandparents
  • Look for Rudolph on the way home
  • Wrap presents on Christmas Eve
  • Set the presents out in neat piles for each child
  • Christmas morning rise at open presents
  • Play with toys during Christmas week
  • Take down New Year’s weekend

Our 1991 Christmas changed all that. At 5:30 a.m., we could hear our youngest children’s happy sounds and calls, “Hurry, everyone. Santa has come. Santa has come.”

We all gathered in the front room; each child sat by their pile of presents. One of the children asked if they could open their presents. And I happily said yes. Each person started wildly and happily unwrapping their presents. In 5 minutes, a year’s worth of savings, three months’ worth of buying, and one month’s worth of Christmas cheeriness were done.

I felt sick inside. Was this all-Christmas morning was about 5 minutes of rip-roaring, paper-flying, cheer, and “look what I got” being yelled at by each child. I vowed right then and there that I would never let this happen again. [TOC]

Christmas 1992 Treasure Hunt Tradition Begins

Christmas Treasure Hunt

Throughout 1992 my wife and I started making a list of things we could change about Christmas to make it more memorable. We realized that the Christmas we were creating resembled the experiences we had as children. It was now six weeks out from Christmas, and we still did not have anything excited about.

For days I pondered the problem, “How could I bring more meaning to Christmas morning and slow the experience down? My ideas were all over the map, such as…

  • Before we open presents, read the nativity
  • Have family members open their present’s one at a time

Then one day, I was walking in a mall and noticed a display where a local charity was wrapping gifts in cans that would require a person to use a can opener to reveal the gifts, and I thought this was a rather odd service.

As I continued to meander throughout the mall, an idea began to unfold in my mind. What if we created a treasure hunt for Christmas morning? Santa would come to our home, hide the children’s presents and leave clues about where each child could find them. Then I began to play out the details

  1. As the children would rise on Christmas morning, they would find a letter from Santa enclosed in a can that would require them to open.
  2. The Letter would provide a clue to hiding places in the home.
  3. Each child would read their clue aloud, solve the clue, find the presents, and return to the Family.
  4. Once all the presents were found, we would take turns as family members to open one present.

The more I thought about the Christmas Treasure Hunt over the next several days, the more I liked it. I shared the idea with my spouse, and we concluded that we would try the idea.

This is how the idea played ….

  1. Write a letter to each of our three children from Santa with four clues for each child. We would need 20 clues for three children and two parents.
  2. I took the letters back to the mall and had each Letter enclosed in a #10 can with ½ pound of M&Ms (loose in the can) to provide as much noise as possible when shook.
  3. Had each can wrapped in a different wrapping paper.
  4. On Christmas eve, after the children when to bed, I lined up the cans on the piano next to the Christmas tree with a letter to the Family from Santa. The Letter from Santa would describe what they were to do with the presents on the piano.
  5. My wife and I organized each child’s present into three piles and then, one pile at a time, hid each present in the designated place.

I shared the idea with my wife, and we both concluded that we would the Christmas Treasure Hunt would be our plan of action. We concluded to do the following:

  1. Write a letter from Santa for each child.
  2. Provide four clues that consisted of a riddle and a clue of where to find the present.
  3. Have the letter enclosed in a can at the mall with loose MM’s so it would rattle when shaken?.
  4. Wrap each can in a different wrapping paper.
  5. Place a name tag on each can.
  6. Provide a can opener next to the cans.
  7. Hide presents throughout the house on Christmas eve. Coordinate the hiding place to what was written on each child’s Christmas letter.

On Christmas morning, the children rose with excitement. This year we asked the children to stay in their rooms until everybody was up and ready, and they received the ok from us to come to the family room where the Christmas tree was located. At 7:00 a.m., we told the children it was ok to see what Santa brought them. With exuberance, they ran with excitement to the family room, and the only thing they found was the cans in a row on the piano. I remember one of the older children saying aloud, “Where are our presents? Santa didn’t come.” There was a moment of pause when I spoke up and asked the children to look at the piano, where they each found a present with their name. As each child received their present, they began to shack and wonder what was inside.

I asked each child to find a place to sit, and I would read the Letter Santa left. The Letter told the Family that Santa would have the family experience a Christmas Treasure Hunt. Within each present, there was a special letter for each child that would give them clues about where they could find their presents. One by one, each family member opened their presents with a can opener. We started with the oldest child and had them read the first paragraph of their Letter with their first clue. Once they read their clue, they were given a chance to figure out where the clue would lead them. When the child thought they knew where their presents were, one or all of the children would run with that child to find their hidden presents. One by one, the children took turns until all 24 clues had been read and present found.

The children were engaged in the Treasure Hunt. They giggled, excited and anxious for the next clue, no matter which child was next. It took almost an hour for all the presents to be found. Once the presents were all found, we again started with the oldest child and had each child pick one present, open it, and share what they received with the Family. Again, we as a family shared in each child’s individual experience and celebrated their joy with each present. The opening of presents took about another hour.

Again and again, we heard from the children how much fun they were having. The experiment of the Christmas Treasure Hunt was a hit. I thought that experience would be a one-time event, but as the following year’s Christmas approached, the children asked us whether Santa would leave them a Christmas Treasure Hunt. Every year since 1992, our Family has had a Christmas Treasure Hunt. Each Treasure Hunt has been a little different in the way it has been presented, but the foundation of Santa leaving a clue of where to find your present has stayed the same.

Now that children are grown with their children, we see the Christmas Treasure Hunt being introduced to the next generation. For years, my wife and I have been by ourselves and we still have fun having our own version of the Christmas Treasure Hunt, which we have enjoyed.

Are you interested in having a Christmas Treasure Hunt for your Family? If yes, I have shared details on creating your version of a Christmas Treasure Hunt and giving you examples to get you started.  [TOC]

How to Create A Christmas Treasure Hunt

Christmas Treasure Hunt

The Christmas Treasure Hunt can be as straightforward or involved as you want. I don’t think we have had the same treasure hunt theme for two years in a row. The part that has been constant each year is the Letter from Santa, which includes

Letter from Santa

  • Christmas Image
  • Christmas Greeting to each person
  • Three or more rounds of clues
    o Riddle to solve
    o Clue of where to find

[TOC]

Download sample Christmas Treasure Hunt Letters. Here are a few simple samples of Christmas Treasure Hunt letters from Santa. Please feel free to download one or more of the nine simple example letters to get you started. The letters are .docx documents. They are copyright free. Note the images used or copyright-free clipart. Modify and share with others.

The nice part of each Letter is that you can customize the clue is that you can customize the riddles and clues to each person. If you want to make the riddles and clues entirely religious, secular, or a combination, you can do that. There are plenty of resources across the web to help you with riddles.

Whether your life in an apartment, at home, or visiting family, you can have a Christmas Treasure Hunt. Christmas Treasure Hunts can be for 2, 10 or more. One year we had 20 people ages 3 to 65 for Christmas, and everyone was part of the Treasure Hunt. Another year, one of our children had a friend who needed a place to go for Christmas, and it was easy to include her in our Treasure Hunt with a couple of hours of work. There is no right or wrong way to have a Christmas Treasure Hunt. Here is a simple outline of how we conduct a Christmas Treasure Hunt.

  1. Write Christmas Letter from Santa (All items listed are optional)
    • Christmas related image
    • Name of person
    • Christmas greeting from Santa and instructions
    • Two or more Christmas present clues
      • Riddle or Christmas Fact
      • Christmas clue where present is hidden
      • Make clue age-appropriate
  2. Place the letter in an envelope or other
  3.  Keep a master copy of each person’s letters with clues and answers.
  4. On Christmas eve, hide presents in designated hiding places.
  5.  Christmas morning, gather the family together.
    • Open Letters together.
    • Answer any questions.
  6. One by one, read each read clue one and so forth.
    • Others can help each other when clues are hard to solve
  7. The Family can choose to continue to open presents or take a break for breakfast and return to open presents after breakfast.
  8. After all, the presents are found, each member of the Family will take turns opening one present at a time. [TOC]

How long does it take to plan a treasure hunt? Once I settle on the theme, developing the idea may take several weeks of pondering. Below I will share an idea I developed for my wife centered around “Stars.” I thought of the idea in early November and spent a couple of hours in Hobby Lobby near me on a Saturday morning, just meandering up and down the aisles, getting ideas. I think I spent a total of 16 hours planning and setting up that theme. For treasure hunts that are just a letter and envelope for three people, I have spent four hours. So, conservatively, you can count on 4 to 20 hours.

How much does a treasure hunt cost? Again, it depends on how created you want to be. If you are doing a letter, it can be under $20. I have sent as much as $150 on some themes, and I can see it costing a lot more if you want to get crazy with your theme.

How long can it take for a family to conduct a treasure hunt? For our family of two adults and three children, it can take an average of 2 to 4 hours. Sometimes we have decided to take a break after finding the presents to have breakfast and then regather to open presents.

Is there an age limit for the Christmas Treasure Hunt? No, not that I have experienced. I have been conducting Christmas Treasure hunts for 30 years. All my children continue the tradition in some form or fashion with their families. Clues can be tailer to any age, interest, lifestyle, home, and more.

Does the Christmas letter have to come from Santa? No. If you want the Letter to come from the parent, guardian, or other, do so. The result is the same, and it is a treasure hunt.

Are you limited to the type of themes you can have? No. Our Family has more than twenty different themes, and we have had Christian themes, history themes, travel themes, Santa themes, and more.

Do you always conduct the treasure hunt using just a letter from Santa? No, and every Christmas Treasure Hunt includes a letter. However, we have used the Letter with the concentration-like game, put a puzzle together, Feliz Navidad, heritage, travel/destination, and much more.

Do presents have to be hidden out of sight? No. Presents can be in plain sight. However, the person must have a clue to know that the present is theirs.

Can there be more than one present hidden in each place? Yes. We tend to hide two to three presents in each place.

Is there room for Christian stories and other religious emblems in the Christmas Treasure Hunt? Of Course. We have had Christmas’ where the Letter to our children included riddles, Christmas facts, and more based on Christian themes. It would be very easy to have the treasure hunt based on religious persuasion.

How many hiding places do you have for each person in the Christmas Treasure Hunt? On average, we have three hiding places.

Where can I find examples of Christmas riddles I can use? You can do a Google search with “Christmas Riddles.” Look below under the heading “Riddle Clues Used in Schreiber Family Treasure Hunts.”

Where can you find examples clues for writing clues for treasure hiding places? I would suggest that hiding places for your Christmas Treasure Hunt be specific to where you live or reside for the Christmas season. If it is your home, write your clues specific to places in your home. Look below under the heading “Present Clues Used in Schreiber Family Treasure Hunts.” This will give ideas of clues we have used. Perhaps you can take and modify some for your Treasure Hunt or get ideas for your own.

Where do I find examples of Christmas Treasure Hunt letters? Look above, and you will see nine simple example letters you can use to get you started. The letters are .docx documents. Feel free to use them. They are copyright free. [TOC]

Example of Themed Christmas Treasure Hunt

A couple of years ago, I wanted to create a Christmas Treasure Hunt for my wife around the stars. As she came out of the bedroom, she saw a row of stars that led down the first flight of stairs. As she began the second flight of stairs, she was greeted with a dimly light room filled with stars. Next to the baby Jesus and brightly lit star in the middle of the floor were her instructions from Santa.

As customary for our family Christmas Treasure Hunt, Santa will leave a letter for our family to open. On this Christmas morning, there were two letters.

Open 1: Follow the Star

Dear Sarah,

On that particular Christmas morning, two millennia since the Christ child came to Mary & Joseph in Bethlehem, you too can follow the star like the shepherds and wise men of old.

As you step outside your bedroom door, look for the stars that will guide you to the star-filled room where one star shines so bright. There you will find a babe placed in his cradle.

Do the following:

Take time to reconstruct the manger scene and read the story that tells of the birth of Christ (Luke 2: 1-20).
Open and read the card addressed to Sarah.

When ready, open the email that reads Open 2: So Many Stars from the Heavens Above.

Merry Christmas,

Santa

Open 2: So Many Stars from the Heavens Above

Good morning my Love.

This morning we celebrate the starry night of the first Christmas. Look around the room and imagine the stars that filled the heavens. Each star represents a blessing, and together they represent the Love we share.

Before you find 5 baskets filled with stars. Start with basket 1 and work your way to basket 5.

Take time to explore each basket to find stars and things that celebrate us and our pursuit of health, happiness, and memories yet to come. Take your time. This is your special day.

Star Basket 1: Star Favorites and More
There is always time and room for your favorites. Enjoy them while you work, watch TV, play games, read books or the outdoors.

Star Basket 2: Star Baker and Chef
A star baker creates great cakes, breads, and desserts for all occasions. A star chef shines at every meal with yummy dishes prepared just right. Take time to explore your options to be the star baker and star chef of your domain.

Star Basket 3: Star Fix-ins and Things
Carefully look within to explore the contents and image all the ways to combine and enjoy throughout the coming weeks. Look carefully to find all the different ways where stars are represented.

Star Basket 4: When Stars Meet the Forest
Imagine your hair blowing in the wind, the cool mist against your face or the sights of a beautiful valley from the mountain top. Adventures in the great outdoors begin with a step, a paddle or peddle. Carefully discover the contents that can make these moments just a little more enjoyable.

Star Basket 5: Start of Us Began Beneath these Stars
Explore the stars in all their varieties. Take time to learn of the heavens. Be careful not to miss the stars that shine bright with the Start of Us. And be sure to touch and make a wish upon a real shooting star placed in a chest.

Merry Christmas,

Santa

One basket included all food items related to stars like chicken soup with starts, macaroni stars, cookie stars and more. Another basket included hiking and outdoor gear, and one included basking supplies cookbook. And air fryer. And more of the things we were wanting and needing. [TOC]

Riddle Clues Used in Christmas Treasure Hunts

Christmas Treasure Hunt

The following are examples of the riddles we used in our Christmas Treasure Hunt letters. The number one criteria have been to make them clean and G rated. Many of the websites that have Christmas riddles are spammy and are very hard to navigate. We hope the riddles we have gathered below will make your search a little easier.

Riddle or Question

Answer
What color is Santa’s hat?
A. Red
B. Green
C. Blue		 A. Red
A host of what appeared announcing the birth of Jesus? Angles
A petite girl with very short legs got so excited at seeing Santa Clause on the street corner that she jumped across the street. How did she do it? She crossed the street and then jumped
According to tradition, how does Santa get back up the chimney?
A. Wiggles his ears
B. He Jumps
C. Puts his finger beside his nose
D. The reindeer pull him up		 C. Puts his finger beside his nose
An elf declared that forty reindeer have eighty-four legs. How come? Forty reindeer have eighty forelegs!
As you were going to the North Pole
You met nine elves coming;
Each elf had nine reindeer,
Each reindeer had nine bags,
Each bag had nine puppies,
And each bag also had nine cats,
Reindeers, elves, puppies and cats,
How many were going to the North Pole?		 Only you. The elves were going in the opposite direction.
Baa, baa, black sheep, have you any wool? Yes, sir, yes sir, three bags full. Some for the coat, some for the socks, and some for the warmth beneath your feet. I am carefully placed to be in the center, lift my corners to find your present. Under the rug
By tradition, if you stand beneath a sprig of this plant, you might get a kiss.
A. Holly
B. Ivy
C. Mistletoe		 C. Mistletoe
Finish the line.  “As nutty as a_______.” Fruit Cake
From where were Mary and Joseph turned away when they arrived in Bethlehem?
A. Inn
B. Campground
C. House		 A. Inn
Ho, Ho, Ho or is it oh, oh, look what I have brought. A chicken, a slice, and a Devil’s food or two. Sometimes I deliver it just right, but most often, I’ll deliver well done.   And don’t forget the rice. Find me, and within, I’ll deliver your gift just right. Oven
How did Darth Vader know what Luke Skywalker was getting for Christmas? Because he felt his presents.
How do sheep greet each other at Christmas? A merry Christmas to Ewe.
How do sheep in Mexico say Merry Christmas? Fleece Navidad!
How many reindeer does Santa Claus have?
a. Santa has eight reindeer.
b. Santa has nine reindeer.
c. Santa does not have reindeer. They are really caribou.
d. Santa has a whole herd of reindeer– we only know about his favorite ones.		 d. Santa has a whole herd of reindeer– we only know about his favorite ones.
How many times does Christmas come each year?
A. Once
B. Twice
C. Five times		 A. Once
How many wise men came bearing gifts for the newborn king?
A. Three
B. Four
C. Seven		 A. Three
I am a lady…I have white hair…I help my husband read lots of letters…I live at the North Pole…My husband delivers toys on Christmas Eve…Who am I? Mrs. Claus
I am furry…I am cuddly…There are lots of books about me…I am a popular Christmas present…I am named after a U.S. president…Who am I? Teddy Bear
I have a hat…I have a scarf…My arms are made of sticks…My eyes and mouth are mad of coal…I have a carrot for the nose…Who am I? Snowman
I have dimples…My cheeks are like roses…My eyes twinkle…I have a white beard…When I laugh, my belly shakes like jelly…Who am I? Santa
I have five brothers and sisters…I have used to walk with a crutch…One Christmas, my dad’s boss decided to help us. I said, “God bless us, everyone.”…Who am I? Tiny Tim
I have pointed ears…I wear green or red clothing…I am very short…I make toys…I work for Santa…Who am I? Elf
I live on top of a hill…I have a small dog…I don’t like Christmas…I don’t like noise, noise, NOISE!… I am green…who am I? Grinch
I only appear at Christmas time…I walk around with a group…Some people give me Cocoa…I love to sing…Everyone in my group knows the same songs…Who am I? Choir
I was selfish during my life…I am now a ghost….I  first appeared as a door knocker on Christmas eve…I was wearing chains…I owned a business with my only friend, Ebenezer…Who am I? Bob Cratchit
If the door is stuck, move the brick,
And find the HO, HO, HO, and there you will find your present.		 Outdoor Garden shed. Present
In the 1946 film, It’s a Wonderful Life, every time a bell rings? Another  angel gets wings
In the movie ‘Miracle on 34th Street’, Kris Kringle is hired to play Santa Claus in what large department store?
a. Marshall Field’s
b. FAO Schwarz
c. Macy’s
d. Gimble’s		 c. Macy’s
In the summer, I am calm. In the winter, I am warm. I reside right next to a salty brine upon which you will find your gift. On top of water softener
It belongs to Santa Claus. But you use it far more than he does, and yet you do not borrow, buy, or steal it from him. What is it? His Name
Knock Knock.
Who’s there?
Holly.
Holly who?
Holly up and open this door– It’s freezing out here!
Name the rich, hot liquid usually poured over a hot scoop of mashed potatoes. Scrouge
Name two candies used to decorate a gingerbread house. Gum Drops and Icing
Name two famous Christmas pies. Pumpkin and Lemon
Santa’s only female sleigh-pulling reindeer, Vixen, has antlers. True or false?
a. False. Only the male reindeer have antlers.
b. True. Both male and female reindeer have antlers.
c. True. But they are no bigger than slight bumps on their heads.
d. False. Some females have been known to have antlers, but that is extremely rare.		 b. True. Both male and female reindeer have antlers.
Sing the following line: Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh… Over the fields, we go laughing all the way
Sing the following line: Deck the halls with boughs of holly… Fah, la, la, la, la, la,la,la,la la,
Sing the following line: Jolly old Saint Nicholas, lean your ear this way… Don’t you tell a single soul
Sing the following line: On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave me a partridge in a pear tree. Two Turtle Doves
Sing the next line: Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn’t go? Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn’t go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Sing the next line: Silent night, holy night… All is calm; All is bright
To what did Santa change his name after sliding down a chimney where the fire was still burning? Crisp Kringle
Two brothers we are,
Belonging to Santa,
Great burdens we bear
By which we are bitterly pressed;
The truth is to say
We are full all the day
And empty when we go to rest.
What can we be?		 Santa’s boots.
What animal did Mary ride upon on her trip to Bethlehem?
A. Horse
B. Camel
C. Donkey		 C. Donkey
What bird is never hungry at Christmas? The turkey is always stuffed.
What bites but has no teeth? Frost
What can go up the chimney down but not down the chimney, and isn’t Santa Claus? Umbrella
What Christmas candy is red and shaped like a cane?
A. Licorice
B. Gumdrops
C. Candy Cane		 C. Candy Cane
What comes after ‘8 maids a-milking in the song ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’?
a. 9 pipers piping
b. 9 lords a-leaping
c. 9 drummers drumming
d. 9 ladies dancing		 d. 9 ladies dancing
What did Adam say on the day before Christmas? It’s Christmas Eve!
What did one Christmas tree say to the other Christmas tree? I really go fir you!
What did the buck say to the doe on Christmas Day? Merry Christmas, Dear!
What did the ghosts say to Santa Claus? We’ll have a boo Christmas without you
What did the Gingerbread Man put on his bed? A cookie sheet!]
What do Santa’s beard and a Christmas tree have in common? They both need trimming!
What do we leave out for Santa?
A. Milk and honey
B. Eggnog
C. Milk and cookies		 C. Milk and cookies
What do you call a snowman on roller blades? Snowmobile.
What do you call Santa when he has no money? Saint Nickel-less
What do you get if you cross an apple with a Christmas Tree? A pineapple
What does Father Christmas write on his Christmas cards?
ABCDEFGHIJKMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ		 (No-L !!) !
What does Santa check to see if boys and girls are good or bad?
A. Computer
B. List
C. Notebook		 B. List
What does Santa leave when he comes to your house?
A. Reindeer
B. Stockings
C. Presents		 C. Presents
What does Santa travel in to deliver Presents?
A. Sleigh
B. Car
C. Wagon		 A. Sleigh
What is a Tannenbaum?
A. Eggnog
B. Pudding
C. A Christmas tree in Germany		 C. A Christmas tree in Germany
What is filled every morning
and emptied every night,
except at Christmas
when it is filled in the night and
Emptied in the morning?		 Your stockings
What is filled every morning and emptied every night,
except at Christmas when it is filled in the night and
Emptied in the morning?		 Your stockings
What is tall, green, smells like pine, and decorated with Christmas lights?
A. Santa
B. Christmas Tree
C. Snowman		 B. Christmas Tree
What is the Christmas dessert made with dried fruits and cherries? Fruit Cake
What is the difference between a new Christmas penny and an old nickel? Four cents
What is the main ingredient in eggnog? Eggs
What is the traditional name for walking around the neighborhood and singing Christmas songs?
A. Trick or treating
B. Caroling
C. Strolling		 B. Caroling
What is used to decorate the outside of the house and comes in strings?
A. Wreaths
B. Lights
C. Candy		 B. Lights
What kind of candle burns longer, a red candle or a green candle? Neither candles always burn shorter!
What kind of tree is traditionally brought into the house and decorated for Christmas?
A. Hardwood
B. Cherry
C. Evergreen		 C. Evergreen
What plant has green leaves with red berries and is used for decorating the house?
A. Grass
B. Oranges
C. Holly		 C. Holly
What traditionally hung on the fireplace mantel?
A. Purses
B. Stockings
C. Shoes		 B. Stockings
What two letters are used by the elves to describe
Santa’s bag the day after Christmas?		 M T (empty)
What type of animal pulls Santa’s Sleigh?
A. Reindeer
B. Dog
C. Horse		 A. Reindeer
What’s the difference between snowmen and snowwomen? Snowballs
When Santa laughs, his belly shakes like a bowlful of what?
A. Jelly
B. Jell-O
C. Jam		 A. Jelly
Where did the honest St. Nicholas live?
a. In Holland
b. At the North Pole
c. In Turkey
d. In Germany		 c. In Turkey
Where does Santa live?
A. the South Pole
B. the North Pole
C. Nebraska		 B. the North Pole
Which burn longer:
The candles on a Christmas cake, on a fruit cake or the mantle of a fireplace?		 They all burn shorter.
Which of the following did the three wise men not bring to Baby Jesus?
A. Gold
B. Diamonds
C. Frankincense		 B. Diamonds
Which of the following is not one of Santa’s Reindeer?
A. Vixen
B. Comet
C. Donna		 C. Donna
Which of the following is not part of the “Twelve Days of Christmas?
A. Eleven pipers piping
B. Three French doves
C. Seven Swans a’ swimming		 B. Three French doves
Which of these events did NOT occur on Christmas Day?
a. Hong Kong fell to the Japanese in WWII.
b. Ebenezer Scrooge was visited by four ghosts.
c. King Arthur pulled Excalibur from the stone.
d. Charlemagne was crowned Holy Roman Emperor.		 b. Ebenezer Scrooge was visited by four ghosts.
Who brought gifts of frankincense, myrrh, and gold as gifts?
A. The three wise men
B. Angle
C. Shepherds		 A. The three wise men
Who is never hungry on Christmas Day? The turkey because he’s always stuffed.
Who said this? “To the top of the Porch! To the top of the wall! Now Dash away! Dash away all!” Santa
Who said, “Bah! Humbug!” Scrouge
Who said, “Happy Christmas to all and a good night.” Santa
Who said, “Will you please tell Santa that instead of presents this year, I just want my family back? No toys, nothing, but Peter, Kate, Buzz, Megan, Lennie, and Jeff…And if he has time, my Uncle Frank? Kevin in Home Alone
Who wrote the “How the Grinch Stole Christmas?” Dr. Suess
Why are Christmas trees like bad knitters? They both drop their needles!
Why did Santa Claus tiptoe past the tents?
Why did Santa Claus trade Rudolph? He wanted change for a buck.
Why did Santa push his bed into the fireplace? He wanted to sleep like a log!
Why did the Christmas cookie go to the doctor? It was feeling crummy!
Why does Santa have three gardens? So he can ho-ho-ho
Why does Scrooge love Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? Because every buck is dear to him.]
Why is a stick of Christmas candy like a horse? The more you lick it, the faster it goes.
Why is a stick of Christmas candy like a horse? The more you lick it, the faster it goes.
Why was Santa’s little helper depressed? Because he had low elf esteem.

[TOC]

Present Clues Used in Christmas Treasure Hunts

Christmas Treasure Hunt

Throughout the 30+ years, our children and I have developed Christmas Treasure Hunts for our families, our clues for presents have been explicitly related to places in the home. Below you will find examples of the clues we have used. The clues range from simple to complex to accommodate the age difference in families. Feel free to use, modify or be inspired to write your own based on the ideas presented.

Where to Find Present Clue Answer
A sweet treat, perhaps a chip, at least a dozen cans, and don’t forget the cider and chocolate.   Come in, select your pleasure, and don’t forget to choose your present. Kitchen closet
A, B, C, D, E, F, G.   How well do you know your alphabet? I am below the G, right next to the R. Opps I forgot Diana removed this letter. Just look next to the P, and G.  Consider your options, decipher the clue and there you will find your present. Video closet
ABCD…As a student, you know your alphabet. But can you tell me where Santa put’s his suit when Christmas is over? Look there, and you will find your present. In the closet
Alright, let’s make this simple. Look for the bullseye, and there you will find back in the corner a package or two. Beneath the dart board.
At 425 and ten minutes, it’s Veggi pizza mmmm Mmmmm good and Christmas cookies for Santa on Christmas morning.   Now I’m cool and holding your presents. Come present yourself at my door, and you’ll find gifts given from the warmth of the heart. Oven
Back and forward, left and right.   Stop then go.   Ahhh. Can’t you make up your mind?   I prefer green circled with 4.   Come to my home and click open the latch, and I will provide you with a neat surprise. Mom’s car
Back and forward, left and right.   Stop then go.   Arrggg! Can’t you make up your mind? Just ask Mrs. Clause how she gets it to work. Come to the seat where she can park, drive, and find your present. Mom’s car
Being outside without a coat is a little CooCoo. Go to the CooCoo and look below. There you will find your present. Under the coco clock
Choo Choo goes on the train, led by the little electric engine. Look to one of my friends that follow behind and find your present. Train
Click 1 for Santa, Click 2 for Mrs. Clause. Choose the cannon to get your Christmas color. There, on top, you will find your present. On the canon printer
Consider the morning when Santa returns; he rests from his travels to good girls and boys. Look beneath his place of sleep and find your second stash of gifts. Bed
Costco, Costco, that’s where mom goes.   She fills the cart, brings it home, and stores it throughout the home. But when it’s cold and thawing fast, you know she will freeze it. Now, where could that be? Come and see. But be forewarned, it’s cold out here.   Look to my top, and will share a gift with you. On freezer
Ding dong, ding dong, someone is at the door. See and find you present on the Porch. Outside front door
Do you see what I see? I’m always in a cloud. When I’m clean, I still see green.   Each day I see a few flakes. My friends come and play, but I wonder how long they will stay.   My Garden is simple but pretty year-round, and my community is stable with colors of plenty. Find me, and at my feet, you will find a present. Next to the fish tank
Don’t stop to count your money count stairs. Count four stairs, and there you will find your presents. Fourth stair
Find the place of the Santa’s twins, and there you will find your present By dads boots
Find the Snowman and Snow Woman. Look behind there you will find your present. On the shelf in the family room
Go to the space where you retire each evening
And look underneath and there you will find your present.		 Underneath the child’s bed.
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on the third chair
from the left of the dining room
Table.
If answer b: Your present is under the pool table.
If answer c: Your present is under mom and Santa’s
bed
If answer d: You’re present in the left-hand saddle
Back of Santa’s bike.		 Person Needs to look in each place.
Find the tool that Santa uses, and there you will find your present In the shed
Go to the space where you retire each eve
And look underneath and there you will find your present.		 Underneath a person’s bed.
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
If answer b: Your present is on Mrs. Clauses’ sleigh
Seat.
If answer c: Your present is next to the folded
Bathroom towels.
If answer d: Your present is behind the Rotating
Christmas Tree.		 Person Needs to look in each place. Present
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
If answer b: Your present is on the Video Closet.
If answer c: Your present is on the third bookshelf
Behind the world atlas.
If answer d: Your present is in Santa’s shower.		 If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
How long are you going to wait? It’s freezing in here. Open the door and find your present. Freezer
How long are you going to wait? It’s freezing in here. Open the door and find your present. Freezer
I am a field of green where children bounce balls from east to west and hope to jump the fence that divides my plain.   What am I? There you will find your present. Ping Pong table
I am a game with New York, Marvin Gardens, and Broadway. I was set up for four and played halfway, and I don’t understand what the hang-up is. Turn on the light, remove the glass and let’s complete the game that was started. Find me, and there you will find your present. Monopoly game
I am a little teapot short and stout, and I like to play with the other dishes when you come for tea. Please come to my pink home and open the door and I will serve you a Christmas present. Play cupboard
I am cold in the summer and warm in the winter, but my pilot is blue throughout the year. What am I? Come and find your present at my feet. Heater
I am happiest when I am filled and anticipate your return when you are gone. It’s our space to read, watch movies, cross-stitch, skype and sleep. Come quickly to the place you woke and look beneath to find your gift. Under child’s bed
I am just like the Christmas Season and bring you the taste of joy. Each taste is filled with the spice and shake of the season. Mom uses the salt and maybe the pepper, but you enjoy using all the seasons. Come to my door and look inside and find your present Spice cuboard
I am white like snow with a silver bowl. Round and round I go, mix a cake or knead the dough together; you and I are a recipe away from the beautiful smells of fresh baked goods. Come quickly and look within and find the gift I have for you. Mixing bowl
I began my life on the plains coming west, entrusted with essential items of worth. Today I am tattered and very worn, but I still have the desire to carry your gifts. Come to my side, open my lid, and find gifts for your future travels. Trunk
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
If answer b: Your present is on Mrs. Clauses’ sleigh
Seat.
If answer c: Your present is in the games closet.
If answer d: Your present is in Santa’s Tub.		 Person Needs to look in each place.
I began my life on the plains coming west, entrusted with essential items of worth. Today I am tattered and very worn, but I still have the desire to carry your gifts. Come to my side, open my lid, and find gifts for your future travels. Trunk
I do my best to give you precisely what you give me.   As the airline pilot says to his control tower when getting instructions, copy that over and out. Just make sure to remove the original when you are done. Copier
I have drawers and also a nice flat top.
For homework, I’m helpful — Keep working. Don’t stop!		 Desk for homework
I like to play with you all year and am filled with toys of all kinds. Come and open the door and find your presence on the floor. Toy closet
I live on top of a hill…I have a small dog…I don’t like Christmas…I don’t like noise, noise, NOISE!… I am green…who am I? Grinch
I never get angry, but I do get hot.
I’m the perfect place for a pan or a pot.		 Stove
I serve two most often but can handle up to eight. I bring you together to share your stories and satisfy your hunger. Come to a head, and I’ll give you a present. Dining Table
I stand next to coverings from head to foot, primarily dark and warm all year. I’ll see you more in December than in June. Thank goodness I can hang with family throughout the year. Come quickly so I can join you to help you have a bright, clean future. Front room closet
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is the fridge, third
Shelf from the top.
If answer b: Your present is on the third chair
From the right of the dining room table.
If answer c: Your present is under Santa’s bed
If answer d: You’re present under the seat of
Santa’s Red Sleigh.		 Person Needs to look in each place.
If Santa was to come to our house and you wanted him to sit next to you at the table, where would he sit? Go there, and you will find your present. In-chair next to the child
I’m a rock. I’m wood. I’m fast.   Clear the rack. Fill my pockets. But don’t worry about the eight unless you are prepared to win a game. Look to the top, and there you will find your present. On pool table
I’m hungry! I’m hungry! Please feed me a slice.
I’ll spit it back out all brown and lovely.		 Toaster
I’m just a flight down the way. Look to the warmth of the flame and find you present next to the snowman that never melts. Fireplace downstairs
I’m one part chair, blue, not red, and one part bed.
Up with your feet and down with your head.		 Blue Recliner
I’m set to keep you warm on cool/cold days.   I am set to keep you cool on warm/hot days.   As you search the reaches of this home, be it known that if you reach the salty sea, you have gone too far; return to the blue flame, and there you will find your next clue. Furnace by the water softener
It’s always a joy to see you. Whether it’s morning when you wake, during the day, or just before bed, I see the image you present to me. Indeed you are among the fairest of them all. I present myself in three places, but your presents are found in only one. Check each space and turn on the light to find your present. I’ll reflect for you. Downstairs bathroom
It’s been a long Christmas Eve; it’s now Christmas day. My socks are dirty; I must spin them till they are clean. Go there, and you will find your present. Washer
It’s been a long, long night, and Rudolph is tired. Santa just wants to take off his boots. Find Santa’s boots, and there you will see a present waiting for you. Dad’s closet
Jump up and go to the closet where Mrs.
Claus keeps her jumping shoes.		 Mom and dads closet
Mary and Joseph stand still on the shelf, reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas. Raise your eyes to gaze upon the gift of the baby Jesus, and behind you will find your present. Behind the manger
Most every day, you step on me.
All I require is a bend of your knee.		 Stairs
Mr. and Mrs. Clause are closer than you think. Find their place of rest. Enter into their room quietly so as not to wake them from their night of delivering gifts the world over.   Find the mirror, center yourself directly in the middle, and gaze upon your beauty. Check three levels down and with a pull, find your treasure. Cabinet drawer
Mrs. Clause turns on the light and looks at her windows, but when she leaves, it’s filled with bubbles. Look for the mouse that lives there too and find your present by the tower nearby. Kitchen sink
Need help in finding the present? Ask the bear. The present is by the Winnie the Pooh Bear Decoration
Now Dasher! Now Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donner and Blitzen! I have traveled the night long in my new sleigh but forgot to deliver all your presents. Quick to the door and then to the sleigh to seek and find one of your presents. Dads red truck
Now off you go to find the first of your four present stashes, out the front door to Santa’s Sleigh. Use the door clicker to open the door, then search the rear compartment for your gift. The rear compartment of a green car.
Oh, Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, A silent night, and jingle bells.   Practice, practice, practice, for Christmas Eve.   When I’m in tune, I’m as good as the hands before me but always desire to sound better.   Come and stand before me and look to my feet. I will have the present you seek. By piano
Oh, Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, A silent night, and jingle bells.   Practice, practice, practice, for Christmas Eve.   When I’m in tune, I’m as good as the hands before me but always desire to sound better.   Come and stand before me, look beneath my lid and find your present. Piano bench
Once upon a time, you shopped all over Trolley Square to find the bed of rest for your first elf. One by one, three little elves arrived; they took their turn peering through the bars that kept them from falling and stared at the mobile that circled above. Come to me and look within and find your treasure. Baby Crib
One stair, two stairs, three or more. Look to the fruit, red squarely divided on the table. I sit below many low plains of white. Now solve the riddle and find your present. Under the kitchen table
Open me to begin your play of fun. Hit the bullseye, and you win. When you are done, use a stick and pocket the balls in my corners. Find your presents between us and bring them back to open when you are through your Christmas journey. Between pool table and dart board
Quick, Quick, Quick, go to where you can be wet and then dry simply by going round and round like a horse on the Merry-go-round. Come to me and look on top to find your present. Dryer
Quick, Quick, Quick, go to where you can be wet and then dry simply by going round and round like a horse on the Merry-go-round. Come to me and look on top to find your present. Dryer
Roses displayed within my bouquet are colorfully beautiful, never trampled, never fragrant, but always ready to provide you rest. Come and look between my pedals and find your present. Beneath the rose couch
Rub a dub bub you play in a tub. When you are all wet, you get squeaky clean. Pull back the curtain and find the drain and a present. Children’s tub
Rub a dub bub. Turn the lights down low. Light the candles and play the music sweet.   But don’t forget to lock the door or you might find Bryson looking like a prune and reading a book.   Come and see where you could be below the tap, not made of brass. Mom and Dad’s bathtub
Rub a dub-dub on the ground floor, and you will be impressed with your final stash of presents. Mom and dad’s tub.
Santa’s sleigh is red all over. Go to where Santa holds the reigns to guide the reindeer, and you will find your presence there. The seat of the red truck
Santa’s workshop is filled with presents on Christmas Eve but is soon empty and hidden throughout the house. Find where he sits, pulls out his chair, and find you’re present wrapped and ready? Office desk
Santa’s workshop is filled with presents on Christmas Eve but is soon empty and hidden throughout the house. Find where he sits, pulls out his chair, and find you’re present wrapped and ready? Office desk
Santa’s workshop is filled with presents on Christmas Eve but is soon empty and hidden throughout the house. Find where he sits, pulls out his chair, and finds your present wrapped and ready? Office chair
So tell me, where do you find cookies? Go there, and you will find your present. Cookie Jar
Start at the wood, climb two flights, turn left, and look for a field of brown. You’ll find your gift not far from Park Place but a little closer to Indiana Avenue. Right below the framed Monopoly game
Teacups and saucers, pink and pretty, oh how fun for a little girls’ party. Come to my shelves, and you will find a delightful gift this Christmas morning. Childs play cabinet
The more I dry, the wetter I get.
A little one can be used for soaking up sweat
Where am I kept?		 Towel Closet
The reindeer are tired, and the sleigh is all dirty, and I’ve parked in the stall to give it a rest. What part of Santa’s Sleigh is empty the morning after he is through delivering toys to all the little boys and girls? Go there and find your presents. Back of truck
Think round, think square, aim with care, and you will zero in on the middle. Open the gate and find you present. Dart Board
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
If answer b: Your present is on the Video Closet.
If answer c: Your present is on the third bookshelf
Behind the world atlas.
If answer d: Your present is in Santa’s shower.		 The person needs to check all places.
This is easy. Go to the Kitchen and look on top of the table; you will find your gift not so wrapped there. Computer terminal on top of the kitchen table.
Three lights of red which are not lit stand in place of roses red. Check beneath the green leaf foliage to find the gift of Christmas. Candles
Turn me on. See the windows. Find the mouse to click for a battle and siege the present next to my tower. Next to the children’s computer
Twas, the night before Christmas, a creature was stirring all through the house; not a mouse was stirring. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, hoping St. Nicholas would soon be there. Return to your place of rest and look beneath both sides to find your presents of gold. Under their bed
Twenty-two players line the field. With a spin and turn, we kick the ball. Kick a goal and earn the point under the field of blue. Where would you find your gift? Under the foosball table
Under the color of sky blue, find a salty brine. I am soft and moist and cool to the taste. What am I? Find me, and I will give you a present. Water softener (salt water)
Use a stick and pocket nine balls in my corners. Currently, I am covered with a field of green. Lift a corner and pocket a present. Pool Table
We live together, one blue/one red. Our friends always keep us fed. I see you, and you see me. But I cannot come out to play. Find me, and I will show you a present. Next to the fish tank in the office
We three Wiseman of Orient are bearing gifts for the king of Bethlehem who over us does reign. We followed a star of the night, a star of bright beauty whose light guided us to the humble manger. Come and join us and look real close and find me gazing through to see the real meaning of Christmas. Return and place me on the circle. Behind manger
We three Wiseman of Orient are bearing gifts for the king of Bethlehem who over us does reign. We followed a star of the night, a star of bright beauty whose light guided us to the humble manger. Come and join us, look real close, and find your present small and precious. In the manger
What bird is never hungry at Christmas but is always ready for a feast. Find my home where I reside for just three or four warm hours, and inside you will find your present. Turkey
When socks are wet, I’m hot. When socks are hot, I’m not.   I turn with a purpose, all in one direction.   But not to worry, you always know when I have stopped.   Come and say hi, open my door and I will show you a Christmas present. Washer
When the family gathers, I am called into action. I am filled with the dirty of all sizes and entrusted to make the white sparkle and silver shine. Come to my door and pull with a tug; inside, you will find your present. Dishwasher
When the family gathers, I am called into action. I am filled with the dirty of all sizes and entrusted to make the white sparkle and silver shine. Come to my door and pull with a tug; inside, you will find your present. Dishwasher
When your socks are dirty, there is only one thing to do: clean them. Go there, and you will find your present. Washer
Where does Santa keep his engine? There, on top, you will find your present. On top of the truck
Where does Santa keep the sleeping bags? Go there and find your present. By the tents
Where would you bake a cake for Christmas?
Go there, and you will find your present.		 Oven
With a lick of honey and a ho, ho, ho and a merry Christmas when you are near. Find me, and I’ll share some Christmas cheer. Near Pooh Bear
With a lick of honey and a ho, ho, ho and a merry Christmas when you are near. Find me, and I’ll share some Christmas cheer. Pooh bear
Your present is right below Rudolph.
Go there, and you will find your present.		 On the floor right below the wall hanging of Rudolph in the Kitchen.
HO HO HO  HO……Which one is the answer?
If answer a:  Your present is on your chair in
Kitchen.
If answer b: Your present is on Mrs. Clauses’ sleigh
Seat.
If answer c: Your present is next to the folded
Bathroom towels.
If answer d: Your present is behind the Rotating
Christmas Tree.		 Person Needs to look in each place.

[TOC]

Clues Used to Find Presents in Christmas Treasure Hunts

Christmas Treasure Hunt

There have been a few Christmas Treasure Hunts where my wife and I have wanted to educate our Family on Christmas’s history and religious background. These are examples of the facts we have chosen to use.

Christmas Facts
Mexicans call the poinsettia “Flower of the Holy Night” – the Holy Night is the Mexican way of saying “Christmas Eve.”
Silent Night was written in 1818 by an Austrian priest Joseph Mohr. He was told the day before Christmas that the church organ was broken and would not be prepared in time for Christmas Eve. He was saddened by this and could not think of Christmas without music, so he wanted to write a carol that a choir could sing to guitar music. He sat down and wrote three stanzas. Later that night, the people in the little Austrian Church sang “Stille Nacht” for the first time.
In the late 1800s, a candy maker in Indiana wanted to express the meaning of Christmas through a symbol made of candy. He invented the idea of bending one of his white candy sticks into the shape of a Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols of Christ’s love and sacrificed through the Candy Cane. First, he used a plain white peppermint stick. The color white symbolizes the purity and sinless nature of Jesus. Next, he added three small stripes to symbolize the pain inflicted upon Jesus before His death on the cross. There are three of them to represent the Holy Trinity. He added a bold stripe to represent the blood Jesus shed for humanity. When looked at with the crook on top, it looks like a shepherd’s staff because Jesus is the shepherd of man. If you turn it upside down, it becomes the letter J symbolizing the first letter in Jesus’ name. The candy maker made these Candy Canes for Christmas, so everyone would remember what Christmas is all about.
Jesus Christ, son of Mary, was born in a cave, not in a wooden stable. Caves were used to keep animals in because of the intense heat. A large church is now built over the cave, and people can go down inside the cave. The carpenters of Jesus’ day were stone cutters. Wood was not used as widely as it is today. So whenever you see a Christmas nativity scene with a wooden stable — that’s the “American” version, not the Biblical one.
Myrrh is an aromatic gum resin that oozes from gashes cut in the bark of a small desert tree called Commifera Myrrha or the dindin tree. The myrrh hardens into tear-dropped-shaped chunks and is then powdered or made into ointments or perfumes. This tree is about 5-15 feet tall and 1 foot in diameter. Legend says Caspar brought the gift of myrrh from Europe or Tarsus and placed it before the Christ Child. Myrrh was a precious commodity imported from India and Arabia during biblical times.
On Christmas morning since medieval times, church bells have been rung to announce the coming of the Saviour. It was customary from the 18th century to wear clothes and carry a small bell to signify the birth of Christ, and the ringing of the bells was to signify the importance of the His Birth.
St. Nicholas was the bishop of the Turkish town of Myra in the early fourth century. The Dutch first made him into a Christmas gift-giver, and Dutch settlers brought him to America, where his name eventually became the familiar Santa Claus.
Based on a 1999 estimated population count of North America and Europe, on Christmas Eve of that year, Santa Claus had to visit 42,466,666 homes in 12 hours — that’s 983 homes per second.
Thomas Nast, the illustrator and caricaturist who created the donkey and elephant images to depict the US Democratic and Republican parties, contributed his vision of Santa for Harper’s Weekly magazine from 1860 until the late 1880s. Nast depicted Santa in a red, fur-trimmed suit and a wide leather belt. Each year he added more details to his version of the Santa legend, including the home workshop at the North Pole and the Naughty & Nice list.
In 1843, the first Christmas card was printed in England for Sir Henry Cole. He was a busy man who wanted to save time in his Christmas letters but was also interested in encouraging the expansion of the postal system. One thousand copies of the card were sold at one shilling each. It was not until the 1860s that the production of cards accelerated with cheaper printing methods. Then in 1870, the Post Office introduced a half penny stamp for sending cards
Many Christmas customs are carryovers from pre-Christian celebrations. Hanging gifts on trees is supposed to stem from the tree worship of the Druids and the belief that the tree was the giver of all good things. The Druids are also partly responsible for the use of mistletoe at Christmastime. They regarded the mistletoe as sacred, made sure that it never touched the ground, and dedicated it to the Goddess of Love, which explains the kissing that goes on under it. Initially, when a boy kissed a girl, he plucked a berry from the cluster and presented it to her. When the berries were gone, so were the kisses.
The Christmas tree was first decorated with lights in the 16th century. It is believed that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to add lighted candles to the tree. He was so taken with the Christmas night sky that he wished to bring “the lights of the stars” into his family’s home. From this, decorating the tree with ornaments, messages and notes, and small gifts emerged in later centuries leading to our customs today.
Saint Boniface is said to have substituted a fir tree for the pagan oak in the eighth century as a symbol of faith. Martin Luther fostered the Christmas tree cult by using a candlelit tree as a symbol of Christ’s heavenly home. In contrast, trees decorated with candles, fruit, and paper flowers were introduced into Britain soon after Queen Victoria’s marriage.
A wreath with holly, red berries, and other decorations began in at least the 17th century. Holly, with its sharply pointed leaves, symbolized the thorns in Christ’s crown of thorns. Red berries symbolized the drops of Christ’s blood. A wreath at Christmas signified a home that celebrated the birth of Christ.
Hanging the Christmas stocking on the hearth on Christmas Eve in the hope that it will be filled with presents the following day is a custom that goes back about 400 years. It derived from the custom in Holland of children placing wooden shoes next to the hearth the night before the arrival of St. Nicholas. The children would fill their shoes with straw and food for St Nicholas’s for the donkey that carried the gifts. In exchange, he would leave them a small gifts such as small cakes, fruits and other gifts. Stockings were substituted for the shoes in Britain, most of Europe, and North America.

[TOC]