by Zofia, age 8 from Krakow, Poland, asks Santa about climbing decorations, Wawel Castle, and the Krakow szopki nativity tradition.
Dear Santa, my name is Zofia, and I am eight years old. I live in Krakow, Poland, where my babcia says a grand old castle sits right on a hill overlooking our whole city.
Dear Zofia, a castle with that much history deserves a very respectful flyover, your babcia picked a truly majestic hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Is there a climbing Santa ladder? My neighbor has a decoration of you climbing right up the side of his house.
There certainly are climbing Santa decorations out there, Zofia, some looking as though I am scaling right up a ladder or rope to the roof. Your neighbor picked a rather adventurous way to celebrate the season.
My babcia says Wawel Castle sits on a hill right above the Vistula River. Is that true?
It is true, Zofia, Wawel Castle rises proudly above the Vistula River, a striking landmark overlooking your beautiful city. I always give it a proud, careful pass on my way to your rooftop.
My babcia says families here build elaborate model nativity scenes called szopki every Christmas. Is that true?
It is true, Zofia, szopki are a beloved Krakow tradition, intricate handmade nativity displays often modeled after the city’s own famous buildings. That kind of careful, artistic craftsmanship, passed down through generations, adds real warmth to any Christmas celebration.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Zofia Nowak
Krakow, Poland
P.S. Do you ever get nervous climbing that decoration ladder?
Only slightly, Zofia, chimneys are considerably more my specialty.
