1:00 AM 21st December 2024
family
Survey Reveals Santa's Favourite Snacks
![image supplied by Hello Fresh]()
image supplied by Hello Fresh
With just a few days to go until Christmas, the festive excitement is building! As many of us tackle last-minute shopping, planning, and preparations, the promise of a well-deserved break is drawing near.
But before the magic of the Big Day arrives, many will take part in the beloved tradition of leaving a treat for Santa on Christmas Eve as a thoughtful snack to keep him energised as he embarks on his epic journey delivering presents around the world.
As festive traditions continue to evolve across the UK, food box delivery service
HelloFresh has set out to discover the most popular food and drink items left out for Santa on the night before Christmas by surveying 2,000 UK adults. The results are in…
What do Brits leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
Food / Drink Item
|
% that said they leave this item out
|
Mince Pies
|
41%
|
Milk
|
29%
|
Carrots
|
28%
|
Cookies/Biscuits
|
27%
|
Whiskey
|
15% |
Mince pies reign supreme as the most popular treat for Santa, with over two-fifths (41%) of Brits choosing this festive classic. To wash it down, milk takes the top spot as the drink of choice, with nearly a third (29%) of people always leaving it out for Santa and his reindeer. Other favourites include carrots (28%), cookies or biscuits (27%), and whiskey (15%)—though Santa might need to pace himself if whiskey is offered at every stop!
On the flip side, less popular options include eggnog (4%), Christmas pudding (5%), cheese and crackers (5%), mulled wine (5%), and Christmas cake (5%). Interestingly, modern preferences emerge among the younger generation (18–34), who favour cookies and biscuits over mince pies, which remain the top choice for those aged 65+.
When it comes to drinks, milk is a clear winner. Whiskey (15%), hot chocolate (8%), brandy (8%), and beer (8%) round out the top five. Younger generations, however, are less likely to leave out alcohol, as milk (29%) and hot chocolate (12%) were chosen over alcoholic drinks such as whiskey (8%) and mulled wine (7%).
Regionally, mince pies are a nationwide favourite, except in Belfast (63%) and Glasgow (47%), where milk leads the way. Parents in Belfast (20%), Liverpool (22%), and Manchester (21%) are most likely to offer whiskey, while beer is the top alcoholic choice in Birmingham (13%).
These results show just how much traditions can vary across generations and regions in the UK, with everyone adding their own little twist to Santa’s treats. Whether you opt for a mince pie, cookie, or a glass of milk, these small gestures add excitement and wonder in the lead up to Christmas Day.