Which one is the best? This is a question that every year on these dates opens the debate in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe.
Around the world, children are familiar with a “gift giver” that arrives magically on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or on January 6th to bring them presents (it will depend on the tradition of each country).
Santa Claus
In America, Santa Clause has been a prominent figure since the mid-19th century. The iconic symbol of Christmas, Santa’s modern image as a jolly old man in red clothing was popularized by none other than Coca Cola as a way to capture the magic of the Holidays.
Dyado Mraz
Has his roots in Slavic paganism mythology, But was during communist times in Bulgaria, Dyado Mraz became the synonym of the New Year Holiday which replaced Christmas in Bulgaria and other countries of Eastern Europe. He traveled around lighting up fir trees (“Elka”) and bringing presents to the kids.
Following the collapse of communist rule in Bulgaria, quickly Dyado Koleda starts to replace the symbol of Dyado Mraz.
Snejanka or Snow white
Snejanka has better luck than Dyado Mraz, she keeps her place in the new Bulgarian Christmas celebrations style. and you still can see her around, but now together with Dyado Koleda!
These days the celebrations have evolved, on the 25th Santa Claus or Dyado Koleda together with Snejanka give presents to the kids, but also is not uncommon for families to give to the kids small presents and sweets in January 1ts, But we will leave Survaka tradition for another post.
dyado mrazWhat these two characters have in common, is their love of children and gift-giving.
This Christmas and New year there is place for both of them in Bulgaria!
But the important is, in this end of the year celebrations is be thankful for what we have and not to worry for what we don’t have!
