Christmas Stockings

“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.” – Clement Clarke Moore, A Visit from St. Nicholas (Twas the Night Before Christmas)

The Christmas stocking and its contents is a beloved holiday tradition that brings so much joy and excitement. We hang large decorative socks by the fireplace during Christmas and fill with small gifts and treats. Come Christmas morning, everyone has fun digging into their stockings to discover the surprises within. 

Stockings are a fun way to give small, inexpensive gifts to your family and friends. The small items can be practical, whimsical, edible, or anything in between. You can customize the stockings for each recipient and really make their Christmas morning special.

Take the time to customize each stocking for your loved one. Choose items that reflect their hobbies, interests, and personality. Mix practical items with silly novelty gifts to keep things fun and lighthearted. 

The stockings don’t need to be overflowing to make Christmas morning magical. A few thoughtful trinkets and treats is all it takes!

A Brief History of the Christmas Stocking

The Christmas stocking tradition dates back to the early 1800s. Legend has it that a widowed father of three daughters worried he could not provide Christmas gifts for his girls. St. Nicholas, The History of Santa Claus, heard of the family’s plight and knew he wanted to help. Under the cover of darkness on Christmas Eve, St. Nicholas dropped three bags of gold coins down the family’s chimney.

The gold coins happened to land in the daughters’ stockings, which were drying by the fireplace. This act of anonymous generosity saved the family from poverty. From then on, children would hang their stockings by the fireplace on Christmas Eve, hoping for a visit from St. Nick.

Ways to Hang Stockings

• Mantle Hanging- Use stocking holders or hooks to hang stockings across the fireplace mantle.
• Command Hooks or Adhesive Hooks- Attach hooks to the wall or a prominent door, allowing stockings to be hung securely without any damage.
• Staircase Banister- Adorn the staircase banister with stockings.
• Coat Rack or Freestanding Hanger- Utilize a coat rack or a freestanding hanger to suspend stockings.
• Window Sill- Line the window sill with stockings.

Variations of Christmas Stockings

Christmas stockings can hold sentimental value and become part of the tradition. Many families pass down stockings from generation to generation as heirlooms. Handmade stockings often become precious keepsakes. While the traditional red and white stockings are iconic, there are endless variations to suit every taste and style.

• Hand-knit or Crocheted Stockings- Lovingly crafted stockings that add a cozy and personal touch to the tradition.
• Personalized Stockings- Stockings adorned with names, initials, or favorite characters, making each one unique.
• Theme-based Stockings- Stockings themed around interests like sports, animals, movies, or hobbies.
• Eco-friendly and Reusable Stockings- Environmentally conscious stockings made from sustainable materials for the eco-conscious.

Popular Stocking Stuffers

• Gift Cards- Always practical, gift cards for coffee, restaurants, retailers, or entertainment are universally appreciated stocking stuffers. 
• Cash/Lottery Tickets- A bit of spending money or the chance to win big is a simple but coveted stocking stuffer.
• Small Gadgets or Tech Accessories- Items like phone chargers, earbuds, phone stands, or portable power banks make practical and desirable stocking stuffers, especially for tech-savvy individuals.
• Chocolate/Candy- Sweet treats like chocolate Santas, candy canes, and gourmet candies are classic stocking favorites.
• Small Toys & Games- Little games, puzzles, playing cards, yo-yos bring out everyone’s inner child.
• Mini Alcohol- Mini bottles of liquor, beer, and wine always delight adults.
• Ornaments- Festive or personalized ornaments for decorating the tree are cherished year after year. 
• Holiday Treats- Homemade fudge, peppermint bark, biscotti, and other holiday yummies are special.

The Christmas stocking is a tradition that evokes nostalgia and brings out childlike wonder in so many. Though styles and customs may vary, the concept remains the same – these sentimental socks hung by the fireplace build anticipation and excitement on Christmas. A few small gifts, treats, and practical items is all it takes to create holiday magic. For young and old, filling and opening stockings reminds us of cherished traditions, family, and the spirit of giving. The Christmas stocking endures as a beloved tradition because it captures the joy, whimsy, and timeless holiday spirit we all want to feel during the most wonderful time of the year.