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Santa’s List Day

Make sure you're on Santa's list this year! Get into the festive spirit and start planning for the holidays with Santa’s List Day.

Friday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 4

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSeasonal

SUBCATEGORYWinter

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to start making your list and checking it twice! On December 4th, we celebrate Santa's List Day. This special day was created to remember the legendary story of Santa Claus and his infamous list of who has been naughty or nice. It's a reminder that even though Christmas is all about giving gifts, it is also important to be kind and generous throughout the year. So make sure your name is on the nice list this year by showing kindness, generosity, and love all year long!

TIMELINE

Santa’s List Day Timeline

Origin of Santa Claus

The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back to St. Nicholas of Myra, a bishop in the 4th century known for his generous gifts to the poor.

"A Visit from St. Nicholas"

Clement Clarke Moore writes "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (often referred to as "Twas the Night Before Christmas"), establishing much of the modern Santa Claus mythology, including his making a list.

Santa Claus Incorporated Into Christmas

Santa Claus begins to be widely incorporated into Christmas traditions in America and many parts of the world.

Santa's List in Popular Culture

The concept of Santa's list — separating children into "naughty" or "nice" categories — becomes well known through popular culture, including songs, movies, and stories.

First Santa's List Day

Santa’s List Day inaugurated for children worldwide to reflect on their actions over the year and strive for kind behaviour in preparation for Christmas.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Santa’s List Day

Read a Christmas tale

Take some time to sit and read a classic Christmas story or even a beloved holiday movie. It's a great way to get into the Christmas spirit and remember the reason for the season.

MAKE

Make a list

What better way to celebrate Santa's List Day than by making your own list? Make a list of all the things you are thankful for, or start making your own wishlist for the upcoming holiday.

WRITE

Write a letter

Write a letter to Santa with what you would like for Christmas, or even thanking him for all the presents you received last year. You can even write a letter to yourself about how you hope to be better in the new year.

SEND

Send out cards

Take some time to craft some homemade cards for your friends and family. Not only will this make them feel special, but it's also a great way to express your love and appreciation for them.

SPREAD

Spread cheer

Take some time to volunteer in your local community, or even visit friends and family that you haven't seen in awhile. It's always important to spread good cheer during the holidays and make sure everyone is feeling festive.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Santa’s List Day

Santa’s List provides hope

Having Santa's list around can provide a sense of hope during what can often be a stressful holiday season. It brings joy and excitement, reminding us to take time out of our busy lives to give back and appreciate what we already have.

Santa's List is magical

There's something truly special about Santa's List. Sometime in November, Elf on the Shelf moves in and begins to take note of all the good deeds done around the house, writing them down on his list. By December, it's ready and registered with the North Pole!

It encourages great behavior

The anticipation of Santa's list encourages people, both young and old, to make sure they're behaving. It reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness have a grand impact and make a difference in our world.