We’re ReMax Realtors Scott Garrison & Diana Sacoto and we’ve been lucky enough to live and work in this amazing community for over 35 years. Over that time, you hear a lot of interesting stories, and the tale of Santa Claus and Coca-Cola is one that often pops up.
Christmas is a time filled with magic, and right in the middle of it all is Santa Claus. That jolly guy in the red suit, bringing joy and presents every year. But have you ever stopped to think… where did our Santa come from? And did Coca-Cola invent him? It’s a fascinating story, and the answer might surprise you.
The Origins: Saint Nicholas
The historical foundation of Santa Claus dates back to the 4th century with Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop who lived in what is now modern-day Türkiye. Famous for his profound kindness and generosity toward children, Saint Nicholas became a symbol of giving throughout various cultures. Over the centuries, different countries adapted his story, bestowing him with various names and appearances that reflected their specific traditions.
The Literary Shift: 1823
The modern visual representation of Santa began to solidify in 1823 with the publication of the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (commonly known as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas“). Written by Clement Clarke Moore, the poem introduced several key characteristics that transformed the figure from a bishop into a folk icon.
Moore described Santa Claus as a “right jolly old elf” with:
A broad face and a round belly that “shook like a bowlful of jelly.”
A long white beard and rosy cheeks.
A sleigh pulled by eight reindeer.
Clothes tarnished with soot from delivering presents down chimneys.
Coca-Cola and the Artistic Transformation
By the early 20th century, Santa was a well-known figure, but his appearance remained inconsistent in popular media. In 1931, the Coca-Cola Company sought to increase beverage sales during the winter months—a typically slow season for cold drinks. To create a stronger emotional connection with the holiday season, they commissioned commercial artist Haddon Sundblom.
Sundblom did not invent Santa Claus, but he humanized him. Drawing direct inspiration from Moore’s 1823 poem, Sundblom painted a Santa that was wholesome, approachable, and realistic. His version moved away from the ethereal or stern depictions of the past, focusing instead on:
A warm, infectious smile and a knowing twinkle in the eye.
A definitive bright red suit (a color that, while previously used, became synonymous with both Santa and the Coca-Cola brand through this campaign).
A portrayal of a man who radiated wisdom and good cheer.
A Global Icon
So, did Coca-Cola invent Santa Claus? The answer is NO.
The tradition goes way back to Saint Nicholas and was shaped by stories and poems. But what Coca-Cola, and especially Haddon Sundblom, did was give us the iconic look that’s instantly recognizable across the globe. Their marketing turned Santa into a true global icon, a symbol of Christmas that goes far beyond just selling soda.
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We hope you found that little bit of history interesting. It’s amazing how these stories evolve over time. Thanks for taking this journey with us. And you know, just like the story of Santa, the story of our community here in East Orlando is always unfolding.
If you have any real estate questions, or even if you have your own memories of seeing Santa (maybe even with a bottle of Coke!), feel free to reach out. We always love connecting with you all and hearing your experiences.
And as Santa Claus says in the “Night before Christmas” in 1823…
“But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight —
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”.
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