Published:
Category: Holidays, History

The tradition of leaving cookies for Santa Claus is a beloved part of Christmas celebrations around the world. This gesture adds a little sweetness to Santa’s long journey delivering gifts. But have you ever wondered where this charming tradition comes from?

The Origins of Cookies for Santa

The origins of this tradition can be traced back to ancient Norse mythology, where children would leave food for Odin and his eight-legged horse Sleipnir during Yule, a midwinter festival. Odin was believed to fly through the sky, much like our modern Santa Claus, delivering gifts to those who showed generosity and kindness.

Fast forward to the Great Depression in the 1930s, when American parents started encouraging children to leave out cookies and milk as a way to show gratitude for their blessings, even during difficult times. Over the decades, the tradition took on a life of its own, becoming a staple of Christmas Eve excitement for kids across the country.

Now, each year on Christmas Eve, millions of children leave out a plate of cookies and a glass of milk, hoping to fuel Santa’s sleigh ride through the night.

Experience the Magic of Christmas at Ford House

At Ford House, we love keeping holiday traditions alive – and this year, your family can join in the fun with a festive twist! As part of our Cookies with Santa event, children get to experience the magic of Christmas up close. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be at Ford House to meet with little ones, listen to their Christmas wishes, and, of course, share some delicious holiday treats!

Your child can sit down with Santa to tell him what’s on their Christmas list, then enjoy a special cookie from Mrs. Claus. This experience brings the joy of Christmas to life, creating memories that your family will treasure for years to come.

Cookies with Santa at Ford House is the perfect opportunity to bring your holiday traditions full circle. Whether your family has been leaving cookies for Santa for years or you’re starting the tradition for the first time, this event offers a magical way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Bring your family, take photos with Santa, and savor the sweetness of the season – both through the joy of giving and a tasty holiday cookie!

We hope to see you at Ford House as we celebrate this time-honored tradition together. Keep the magic of Christmas alive this year and make new memories with us at Cookies with Santa!

Learn more about Cookies with Santa here.