NPR

In Bethlehem, 'Baba Noel' Delivers Christmas Gifts To Palestinian Children

In the Holy Land, Santa doesn't come down the chimney or wait till kids are asleep to deliver presents. "Baba Noel" or Father Christmas hops out of a red van and makes house calls while they're awake.
Sabri Canaan, 30, dons a Santa suit to deliver presents as Baba Noel (Father Christmas) on Christmas Eve in Bethlehem. His driver Mohammed Battah (left) briefs him on the list of children receiving gifts.

In the little town of Bethlehem, Santa hops out of a red minivan, adjusts his round, gold-rimmed glasses and is briefed by his chauffeur, Mohammed Battah.

"Martin and Christina," the driver says, handing him two wrapped boxes.

"Martin!" Santa calls out, rapping his cane and ringing a golden bell as he ascends a stone staircase.

Four-year-old Martin cries at first, scared of the stranger with the white beard. Then, when he

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Baltimore's Key Bridge Was Built In The '70s, But Has A Deep And Patriotic History
The bridge was built mere yards from where Francis Scott Key watched the British bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814, inspiring him to write the song that would become the U.S. national anthem.
NPR1 min read
6 Presumed Dead In Baltimore Bridge Collapse; Former RNC Chair Dropped From NBC
Recovery efforts are underway for six people presumed dead in the Baltimore bridge collapse. NBC has dropped a former RNC chair as a contributor after backlash from the public and its network stars.
NPR12 min read
Composer Anna Clyne, A Radical Melodist With A Painter's Eye
One of the most performed living composers unpacks the power of melody in her music, her unconventional path to success and how visual art guides her process.

Related Books & Audiobooks