Santa’s New Ride, 2003
An animated short by Sven van der Hart
In this cute stop motion animation made with Playmobil toys, Santa is tempted by something bright, red and shiny while out delivering presents with the rain deer. This may explain why some of us didn’t get many toys this year.
The modern Christmas celebration, as practiced in the world today, is often very commercial, but clearly at the heart of the holiday for devout Christians everywhere is a celebration to honor the birth of Jesus Christ, believed by billions to be the savior of mankind, and the son of God.
However, many of the traditions and trappings of the modern Christmas holiday predate the Christian era. Decorated Evergreen trees, gift giving, the stories related to Santa Clause, and much more, all have origins in ancient pagan Europe, in particular the Nordic nations of the far north.
This video is a fascinating account of the pagan origins of the Christmas holiday. So much of the symbolism and storytelling we are familiar with during the Christmas season originate in the solstice celebrations of Yule, observed in ancient pre-Christian Europe for thousands of years.
Photo: youtube (screen capture)
Snow Foolin’, 1949
An animated short by Izzy Sparber (as I. Sparber)
“Various animals prepare for winter and enjoy a variety of winter sports. A hen invites us to follow her bouncing egg and sing along to Jingle Bells. Finally, a turtle dispenses hot coffee to a bird on her nest.” (IMDB.com)
Santa And The Robot Menace, 2014
An animated short by Peter Proscia
Santa contends with a powerful robotic challenger attempting to take over the Christmas. This crisp and colorful animated short is a delightful holiday treat.
