by A film-loving girl in Barcelona asks how many Santa movies exist, which mountains border Spain, and why gift days differ
A Letter to Santa from Barcelona, Spain
Dear Santa,
Hola Santa! My name is Lucia and I am 8 years old. I live in Barcelona, in Spain, where the buildings look like they came from a dream. I love watching films and dancing flamenco. My question is: how many Santa Claus movies are there? My geography question is: what mountains separate Spain from France? And my social studies question is: why do some countries give gifts on different days? Gracias, Santa!
Love, Lucia (age 8)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, hola Lucia! A girl who loves films and flamenco has a heart full of joy. You asked how many movies there are about me, and the honest truth is that I have lost count. There are dozens and dozens, from old black-and-white films your grandparents watched to bright new cartoons. Filmmakers love to tell stories about me, perhaps because everyone enjoys a tale of giving and good cheer. I must admit I rarely watch them, though, because I am far too busy in my workshop. The elves give me reviews instead.
Your geography question: the mountains between Spain and France
The mountains that separate your own Spain from France are called the Pyrenees. They form a tall, natural wall stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. For a long time, these mountains made travel between the two countries quite an adventure. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: gift-giving on different days
Different countries give gifts on different days because each follows its own beloved traditions. In your own Spain, many children receive their main gifts on the sixth of January, brought by the Three Kings, rather than on Christmas Day. These special days come from a country’s history and faith, and each one is wonderful in its own way. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Dance a flamenco for me, Lucia. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
