There are many legends surrounding the tradition of Christmas stockings. One tells of Santa Claus giving a gift to the poor in the form of gold coins, which he imperceptibly tucked into their washed stockings hung by the fireplace. It is said that in the 12th century in Francia, nuns visited the poor, offering them socks full of nuts and fruit (mainly mandarins).

Today, the tradition is popular in the UK and the USA. On 24 December, children hang the socks on the mantelpiece or by their beds hoping to find presents in them. In exchange for Christmas trinkets, they often leave cookies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer.