Saint Nicholas Day

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St. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, gives secretly dowries to three poor girls - Book of hours Simon de Varie - KB 74 G37 - 084r min

Chapkanov-Saint-Nicholas

Sinterklaas 2007

Ecka Mikulas-children

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Christmas Stamp of Ukraine 2006 2

1986 Haunzenbergersöll Nikolaus

Saint Nicholas Day, celebrated on December 6th in Western Christian countries and December 19th in Eastern Christian countries using the Julian calendar, is a festive day honoring Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century saint revered for his generous gifts to the poor and being the protector of children. This day is significant in the Advent season, leading up to Christmas, and is marked by gift-giving and various traditions that vary by country.

Origins and History

Saint Nicholas was born during the 3rd century in the village of Patara, part of present-day Turkey. He became the bishop of Myra, a city in modern-day Turkey, and was known for his piety, kindness, and numerous miracles attributed to his intercession. The most famous story of Saint Nicholas is that he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Over the centuries, Saint Nicholas's popularity spread, and he became known as the protector of children and sailors.

After his death, the tradition of celebrating Saint Nicholas Day began, initially in countries with a strong Christian tradition. The day commemorates his life and miracles and is celebrated with various customs around the world, reflecting local culture and traditions.

Celebrations and Traditions

Celebrations of Saint Nicholas Day vary widely across different cultures. In many European countries, children place their shoes or boots outside their bedroom doors or by the fireplace on the evening of December 5th. They believe that Saint Nicholas will visit during the night and fill their shoes with small gifts, sweets, and fruits if they have been good or, alternatively, a twig or piece of coal if they have been naughty.

In some countries, such as the Netherlands and Belgium, Saint Nicholas, known as Sinterklaas, arrives by boat from Spain to distribute gifts to children. This event is often accompanied by parades and festivities in early December.

In parts of Germany and Austria, Saint Nicholas is accompanied by Krampus, a horned figure who punishes naughty children. This tradition serves as a reminder of the rewards for good behavior and the consequences of bad behavior.

Cultural Significance

Saint Nicholas Day serves not only as a day of joy and gift-giving but also as a reminder of the importance of generosity and kindness. Saint Nicholas's acts of giving are seen as a model for Christmas giving, influencing the modern-day figure of Santa Claus in various cultures.

The celebration of Saint Nicholas Day also marks the beginning of the Christmas festive season in many countries, setting the tone for the upcoming holiday celebrations.

See Also

• Advent
• Christmas
• Santa Claus
• Krampus