What is the history of Santa Claus? Clive and Ian, Monkey and Cap’n Pete explain why Santa wears a red suit – because the real Santa Claus, St. Nicholas, was a bishop in the church and bishops wore red suits. From the new family Christmas DVD Buck Denver Asks Why Do We Call It Christmas? from VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer.
Why Does Santa Claus Wear a Red Suit?
Cap’n Pete
See if you can answer this one, Mr. Smarty-Monkey! Why is Santa always wearing a red suit lined with white fur?
Monkey
Oh yes, I know that one too.
Clive
You see, St. Nicholas was a bishop in the church – that means he was the leader of ALL the churches in his area. Bishops wore red robes and red hats. St. Nicholas was most popular in Northern Europe, where it was very cold on St. Nicholas Day. So pictures of St. Nicholas visiting Northern Europe on December 6th show him wearing a red robe and hat, all lined with white fur to keep him warm while he delivers his presents to kids!
Monkey
That’s why Santa is always wearing a red suit with white fur!
Cap’n Pete
Well you just know everything don’t ya? What? Why’d we stop?
Monkey
This next part is going to be tricky.
