A Christmas stocking is an empty sock or
sock-shaped bag that children in the United
States and some other cultures hang on Christmas
Eve so that Santa Claus can fill it with small
toys, candy, fruit, coins, or other small gifts
when he arrives. These small items are often
referred to as stocking stuffers. Tradition in
western culture dictates that a child who
behaves badly during the year will receive only
a piece of coal.
By tradition, the stocking is hung on the fireplace, but, since many modern homes do not have fireplaces, stockings may be hung in almost any location, under the assumption that Santa can find them wherever they are.
By tradition, the stocking is hung on the fireplace, but, since many modern homes do not have fireplaces, stockings may be hung in almost any location, under the assumption that Santa can find them wherever they are.