A Christmas Stocking is an empty sock or sock-shaped bag that is hung on Saint Nicholas Day or Christmas Eve so that Saint Nicholas (or the related figures of Santa Claus and Father Christmas) can fill it with small toys, candy, fruit, coins, or other small Christmas gifts when he arrives. These small items are often referred to as stocking stuffers and/or stocking fillers.
History with the Macy's Parade[]
The Christmas Stocking balloon made its parade debut in 1937 and featured a large stocking overflowing with holiday goodies including candy canes, toy planes, dolls, yo-yos, candy batons, bouncy balls, and more. The balloon made one more appearance in 1938 and was retired after the procession. However, it continued making appearances in the Santason Parade from 1939 to 1941, it was donated for war efforts in World War II after that.