What is Santa Claus called in Italy?

Answer 1

In Italy, there are a number of people who bring toys:

• Babbo Natale ("Father Christmas")
• Gesu bambino ("Baby Jesus")
• La Befana
• Saint Nicholas
• Saint Lucy

Answer 2

Ther are two answers for this:

According to tradition, the presents in Italy are delivered on Christmas by a kind ugly witch called Befana on a broomstick. It was said that she was told by the three kings that the baby Jesus was born, she was busy and delayed visiting the baby. She missed the Star lost her way and has been flying around ever since, leaving presents at every house with children in case he is there. She slides down chimneys, and fills stockings and shoes with good things for good children and it is said leaves coal for children who are not so good.

Babbo Natale is Italy's version of Santa Claus. Babbo Natale (Father Christmas) is a skinnier and more regal looking version of Santa Claus. They both wear red cloaks with white trim, but Santa Claus has most decidedly enjoyed more second helpings at the dinner table than Babbo Natale. Since the Santa Claus story was popularized by Clement Moore and Coca Cola, the story the world over has many similarities. Babbo Natale also has reindeer, whose names are: Cometa, Ballerina, Fulmine, Donnola, Freccia, Saltarello, Donato, Cupido (Comet, Dancer, Dasher, Prancer, Vixen, Donder, Blitzen, Cupid).