by A horse-riding boy in Buenos Aires asks Santa’s weight, what the Pampas are, and the meaning of a national dance
A Letter to Santa from Buenos Aires, Argentina
Dear Santa,
Hola Santa! My name is Tomas and I am 8 years old. I live in Buenos Aires, in Argentina, where people dance in the streets and the steak is famous. I love football and riding horses with my uncle. My cheeky question is: how much does Santa Claus weigh? My geography question is: what are the Pampas? And my social studies question is: what is a national dance and why does it matter? Gracias, Santa!
Love, Tomas (age 8)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, hola Tomas! That is a cheeky question, and I love it. I am afraid a gentleman never reveals his exact weight, especially one who eats as many cookies as I do. But I will happily admit that I am pleasantly round and comfortably stuffed. When I laugh, my belly wobbles like a bowl of jelly, and I would not change it for the world. All that roundness is simply proof that children everywhere leave me plenty of treats, and I am very grateful for each and every one.
Your geography question: the Pampas
The Pampas are the wide, flat grasslands that stretch across much of your own Argentina. They are perfect for raising cattle and horses, which is why your country is so famous for both. Skilled horse riders called gauchos have worked these grassy plains for generations. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: national dances
A national dance is a style of dancing that becomes a proud symbol of a country. Your own Argentina is famous around the world for the tango, a graceful and dramatic dance born in the neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. National dances matter because they carry a country’s feeling, history, and joy in every step. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Ride well with your uncle, Tomas. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
