Explore the history and significance of multiple Santas in Slovenia during the festive season, including St. Nicholas, Mick Klausch, and Dedek Maras. Learn about the revival of public religious celebrations, the month-long festive season known as Vaselli December, and the symbolic importance of Dedek Maras. Also, discover the inspiring work of scientists supporting refugees and the unique celebration of different figures during the holiday season in Slovenia.
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Quick takeaways
Slovenian children are visited by three different Santas, each representing different cultural and historical periods in Slovenia's history.
Despite the dominance of Santa Claus, Slovenians still value and celebrate their traditional Slovenian Santas, embracing their diversity and traditions.
Deep dives
The Three Santas of Slovenia
Slovenian children are visited by three different Santas: Bozicek (Slovenian Santa Claus), Mick Klausch (Catholic Saint Nicholas), and Dedek Maras (the Slovenian Santa brought back from the Soviet Union). These three Santas each have their own distinct role and appearance, and they represent different cultural and historical periods in Slovenia. Despite the presence of commercialized Santa Claus, Slovenian families still value and celebrate the traditional Slovenian Santas. Each Santa has their own designated time during the holiday season, and Slovenians embrace all three to create a month-long celebration called Mary December.
Cultural and Historical Significance of the Santas
The three Santas hold cultural and historical significance in Slovenia. Mick Klausch, associated with Catholicism, was the original Santa in Slovenia, but during the Soviet era, Dedek Maras was introduced as a more socialist alternative. Santa Claus, popularized by Western influence, also found a place in Slovenian celebrations. Each Santa represents different periods in Slovenian history and ideologies. Despite attempts to replace or remove certain Santas, the Slovenian people have chosen to honor and celebrate all three, embracing their diversity and traditions.
The Importance of Dedek Maras
Dedek Maras holds a special place in Slovenian culture. Rebranded as a uniquely Slovenian figure, Dedek Maras embodies the character of the Slovenian people. He is depicted as a hunter who shares his wealth with children, reflecting the values of humility and giving. Dedek Maras is favored by many Slovenian families and has become an iconic figure associated with the Slovenian Christmas tradition. Slovenians see Dedek Maras as a meaningful part of their heritage and culture, refusing to let go of this beloved character.
The Modern Celebration of the Three Santas
Today, Slovenians celebrate all three Santas as part of the month-long festival called Mary December. Each Santa has designated appearances and roles within the festivities. Despite the dominance of Santa Claus in popular culture, Slovenians still value and preserve their traditional Santas. Performers dedicated to each Santa provide joy and comfort to children and families during the holiday season. The celebration of the three Santas represents Slovenia's rich history, deep-rooted traditions, and the resilience of its people in embracing diverse cultural identities.
We're revisiting this Christmas classic from 2021. Happy Holidays!
Slovenia is a small country in Central Europe nestled between Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary. It's a land of snowy white peaks, green valleys, and turquoise rivers. The country is beautiful in all seasons, but it is perhaps at its most magical around Christmastime. This nation of just over 2 million people is visited by, not one, not two, but three different "santas" every festive season. But it hasn't always been this way. Each Santa has had his moment in the spotlight—each in a different period of Slovenia’s complicated history. And in order to have a Christmas season that reflects that history and speaks to all Slovenians, you need three magical men.