Deck the Halls: Christmas Stocking Stuffers & Gift-Giving Traditions

Christmas is celebrated all around the world in different ways. But one tradition that is cherished across the globe is the beloved Christmas stocking. Many of us adopt traditions without knowing where they started, we know we do sometimes! But we also love uncovering the stories behind what makes each special tradition so unique. So today, let’s uncover the history of stockings and discover how they’re used in family holiday traditions across the globe, shall we?

The History of Christmas Stockings

Like most historic traditions, there are a few theories about the roots of where the Christmas stocking originated, but there’s one that sticks out as the most well-known—the legend of St. Nicholas. 

Back in 800 A.D. St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, heard of a poor man whose wife had died, leaving him as a sole provider who did not make enough to give a dowry for his daughters to marry well. Hearing of his struggle, Saint Nicholas wanted to help and tossed gold down the chimney. The gold landed in socks left by the fire to dry, and the family’s woes were solved! This later transpired to people leaving toys and oranges, to signify the gifts in this beloved legend. We know it’s been a part of American tradition for years, due to the mention of stockings in the ever-popular poem, The Night Before Christmas, originally written in the 1800s.

Today, it’s up to each family to create their own traditions surrounding this lovely story of giving. Which Christmas stocking story do you share with your little ones during the holiday season? Depending on where in the world you live, your traditions and the stories behind them may look different!

Where Stockings Are Hung by the Chimney with Care

These are just a few of the countries across the world where stockings are a part of holiday tradition. And each place uses them in celebration differently which is so special!

Stocking Stuffers for Everyone in Your Family

Stocking stuffers change throughout the years. While everyone loves sweets to nibble on, kiddos love toys and trinkets, while adults may prefer a meaningful token or functional item. The good news is, at Simply Inspired, we have stocking stuffers for all ages and personalities! 

Stocking Stuffers for the Little Loves…

Stocking Stuffers for the Adults…

Stocking Stuffers for Everyone…

Simply Inspired’s Meaningful Stocking Stuffers Will Bring Joy to Your Holiday Celebrations

We could keep this list going for a while, but we’ll let you browse the collection for yourself. Our carefully curated Stocking Stuffers Collection is filled with purposeful gifts that will spark joy and meaning for all! Stocking stuffers to us are an opportunity to show those you love that you’re thinking of them, and see them for who they are, with a gift that shows you care and know what is important to them. 

So browse and shop today for those who have stockings hanging on your mantles, as stock is limited and time for shipping will run out before we can say, “Happy Holidays!”