Santa Claus plays a central role in Christmas traditions, but some holiday fans aren’t aware that the mythology surrounding him dates back to a fourth-century Greek bishop. Called Saint Nicholas, he was considered the patron saint of children and was known for his kindness — even supposedly leaving coins in poor children’s shoes as a secret way of helping them.
Age-old lore says Dutch settlers brought tales of his generosity to the United States, and in 1773 the American press gave Saint Nicholas the now-common name of “Santa Claus.” His fame was assured in the early 1800s when Clement Moore penned the poem now dubbed “’Twas The Night Before Christmas,” depicting a red-suited Santa traveling around the world in a sleigh pulled by reindeer to deliver gifts on Christmas Eve.
In the Florida Keys, Santa is sometimes imagined in a sleigh powered by miniature Key deer — or even spotted underwater, where he brings holiday wishes to sea creatures in an island tradition started by an Upper Keys dive shop owner.
During December, “Santa sightings” are common around Key West — for example, he’s typically seen waving to holiday fans from vessels participating in the annual lighted boat parade.
The jolly white-bearded fellow will appear in the Key West Cooking Show’s historic lobby, located upstairs at 291 Front St., on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 1 to 3 p.m. He’ll welcome kids and grownups for photo ops and the opportunity to tell him what holiday gifts they want. Even well-behaved pets can share a moment with Santa to woof or purr their wishes.
Other attractions at the festive event include holiday treats such as cookies and eggnog, and a chance to enjoy a beautifully decorated “Conch house” scene. Key lime pie and seasonal drinks, including the Autumn White Russian and Cider & Maple Stormy, will be available for purchase.
As well as Santa, fine food takes center stage as the Christmas holiday approaches — and no one is known for finer food than chef Norman Van Aken, widely hailed as the father of New World Cuisine.
The Key West Cooking Show presents an exclusive culinary experience with the internationally acclaimed chef Friday, Dec. 5, where connoisseurs can learn his techniques for preparing an exquisite multi-course meal, and then enjoy the featured dishes with him in an intimate setting.
Renowned as an icon in his profession, Van Aken launched his career in Key West and the island’s culinary influences helped shape his distinctive cuisine. The interactive learn-and-dine event is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. and seating is limited. Reservations are required; visit https://keystix.com.
Last Call
Drink of the month: Autumn White Russian. Featuring a measured sweetness and an energy-inducing kick, this intriguing cocktail blends vodka, vanilla simple syrup, Italian espresso liqueur, traditional espresso and chocolate bitters — with a seasonal splash of non-dairy pumpkin spice creamer.
Helpful bar hack: When crafting a cocktail, it’s vital to achieve the proper balance of flavors. Balancing the components of sweet and sour, as well as strength and dilution from melting ice — and understanding the appropriate proportions of each ingredient — are the keys to a nuanced, quality offering.
Thirsty for more? Visit keywestcookingshow.com or call 305-294-COOK.
