Christmas stockings are one of the season’s most cherished traditions, hung on mantels, draped along stair rails, or waiting at the foot of the bed for Christmas morning surprises.

Whether they’re lovingly handmade, picked up in a shop, or passed down as family heirlooms, stockings hold a special place in holiday celebrations.

But while we enjoy filling them with tiny treats and thoughtful trinkets, many people don’t know how this charming tradition actually began.

Ahead, we explore the folklore behind the Christmas stocking and share ideas for filling yours to the brim for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between.

What is the origin story of the Christmas stocking?

According to legend, the Christmas stocking dates back to the 4th century, when a widowed nobleman struggled to provide

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