The figure of Mother Christmas has gained popularity in recent years, offering a fresh take on the traditional Santa Claus. While the concept of Father Christmas dates back to Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop known for his generosity, Mother Christmas is a more modern addition to the holiday scene.
Appearance: Much like her husband, Mother Christmas is typically seen wearing a red coat with a furry white collar and cuffs. While the beard is optional, she often mirrors Santa’s classic look, embodying the same festive spirit.
Is She Real? Absolutely! While her appearances are seasonal, Mother Christmas can be found in various Santa’s grottos across the country, offering a new twist on the holiday experience.
Where to Find Her: You can meet Mother Christmas at places like National Trust properties, such as Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire, which offers Storytime with Mother Christmas experiences. She can also be found at Chepstow Castle in Monmouthshire, reading stories to children, and at the Yorkshire Dales national park, where she might even write and send a letter to Santa.
What About Santa? It’s not always clear whether Mother Christmas has replaced Santa Claus, or if they’re still a couple. Some locations, like British Garden Centres, are offering breakfast with Mrs. Claus for toddlers. Even Boots has jumped on the bandwagon, featuring Bridgerton’s Adjoa Andoh as Mrs. Claus in their Christmas ad, where she works behind the scenes while Santa gets the credit.
Mixed Reactions: The response to the rise of Mother Christmas has been divisive. Some critics argue that it disrupts a long-standing tradition, while others, like a mum-of-two from Bath, find the idea of a female Santa more comforting. “There’s just something gentler about a woman,” she says, preferring her children to sit on a woman’s lap instead of a man’s.
Do say: “Ho ho her!”
Don’t say: “Saint Nicholas was definitely a he. Also definitely unmarried…”