FREE! Learn more and RSVP HERE

Santa Claus is the commercial and secular face of Christmas, an ancient Christian tradition built upon even more ancient rites. The Winter Solstice, the darkest day of the year, was a dangerous time – a liminal one during which the forces of Darkness had another chance to take over. Co-opted by Christians to celebrate the birth of their Messiah, the winter holiday season has never lost its links to pre-Christian ceremonies. The legends of sacred figures like Saint Nicholas and Saint Lucy merged those of with sorcerers and demons – and a talking animal or two – to give birth to modern-day traditions.

This talk by Eric Huang, the host of Saint Podcast, will trace the evolution of this lucrative holiday while exploring flying cats, the demon Krampus, Coca-Cola, and the resurrection of three butchered siblings.