Yule, a pagan winter festival celebrated between December 20th and 31st, shares some similarities with Christmas celebrations. Both traditions involve a 12-day celebration period where presents are delivered through chimneys to reward good behavior in children. Magical figures like Thor and Santa Claus ride through the sky in sleds pulled by magical animals to deliver gifts and remind children to be loyal or well-behaved through the use of presents and coal. Certain desserts and cutting down trees are also common activities during both festivals.