In modern times, Germany has not one gift bringer, but two. Historically, an angelic childlike creature called Christkindl brought the Christmas gifts, but this figure is slowly being overshadowed by Weihnachtsmann. Weihnachtsmann is the German equivalent of Santa Claus. However, he is not short and fat, but tall and slim, with a long white beard and a full length red robe. He is often pictured carrying a Christmas tree. This is because the Christmas tree is a prominent symbol of Christmas throughout Germany. In some areas of Germany he wears animal skins rather than a robe. Like Christkindl, Weihnachtsmann brings the gifts on Christmas Eve. On that night the parlor is locked and guarded until after supper. When the doors are thrown open, a Christmas tree sur- rounded with gifts is revealed. In Germany, electric lights on the tree are not used, real candles lit only on Christmas Eve are used instead.
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