Le Père Chalande , Santa Claus in Savoie
An iconic figure evoking the end-of-year traditions in the Alps, « Le Père Chalande » , whose name refers to the ancient “Calendes”, i.e. the end-of-year celebrations, was once part of Savoyard traditions.
Santa Claus, as we know him today, with his long white beard, red coat and sack full of presents, is actually a fairly recent invention.
Sources : www.radiofrance.fr