Poll: Santa Claus—Religion or Tradition?

Santa Claus can be seen just about everywhere this time of year. But when "Santa" disappeared from the name of a holiday event being held at , one parent was not pleased.

Sid Gautama questioned PRM Principal John Hynes about the reasoning behind the name change of an event that was previously called "Breakfast with Santa" now being called "The Winter Festival." The event, sponsored by the Pearl R. Miller School Home and School Association, is an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast being held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the school. Fliers for the event were sent out in the school's Friday Folder.

"My view is that celebrating the spirit of Christmas, as personified in Santa, is a completely sectarian non-religious activity, and the courts agree. I grow up in a non-religious family and am not a Christian, or any other organized religion, yet I have always celebrated Christmas," Gautama said. "I see Christmas as an American tradition."

But Hynes said the name of the event was changed so that everyone, even those not celebrating Christmas, could feel included.

"The intention was to ensure that no one felt excluded from the program because they do not follow the 'Christmas' tradition. Photos with Santa will be available for interested parents and children," Hynes said.

What do you think? Participate in our poll below and tell us how you feel in the comments.