Odin

In Germanic traditions, the Norse Pagan God Odin has been said to have contributed to parts of the appearance of Santa Claus / Father Christmas. During the Germanic holiday Yule, Odin would lead a hunt through the sky on his eight legged horse Sleipnir-today's eight reindeer and their ability to fly are said to have been derived from this tale. Children would place their boots filled with straw, carrots or sugar for Sleipnir, and their kindness and good deeds would be rewarded by Odin with gifts.