What is Santa Claus called in French Christmas tradition?

Santa Claus is called Père Noël in French Christmas tradition.

The French name literally means “Father Christmas” or “Father Christmas Day,” with Noël referring to Christmas. Père Noël is generally portrayed as a bearded man in a red suit who brings presents to children during the Christmas season. In many French-speaking households, children leave shoes rather than stockings to be filled with gifts.

French Christmas customs vary by region and family. In parts of eastern France, Saint Nicholas traditions remain important, while Père Noël is the principal modern gift-bringer in many other areas. The character can also appear alongside local figures and religious customs.

Père Noël should not be confused with Père Fouettard, a darker companion in some Saint Nicholas traditions. The two figures have different roles: Père Noël gives presents, while Père Fouettard is associated with disciplining misbehaving children.