24 Days of Tradition: Saint Nicholas Day
You better watch out, you better not cry. Better not pout, I’m telling you why. Santa Claus -er- Saint Nicholas is comin’ to town. Yes, on December 6 (or, depending on the country in which you live, December 4, December 5, or December 19), the original Santa Claus will arrive bearing gifts for all.
The story of Saint Nicholas begins more than 2,000 years ago in Ancient Greece. Very little is known about the actual man who was honoured with sainthood because he died centuries before anyone wrote about him. However, the old accounts claim he was an early Christian bishop who could work miracles. Nicholas is said to have saved soldiers from execution, calmed a storm at sea, and chopped down a demon-possessed tree. In the millennia since his death, Saint Nicholas has sparked celebrations across the world, including in Europe, the Middle East and North America.
Saint Nicholas Day is a celebration of the man who is now considered to be a gift-bringer to all, especially to children who were well-behaved during the year. Nicholas is also believed to be accompanied by a variety of companions including Knecht Ruprecht, Krampus, Belsnickel and Zwarte Piet (who has been considered controversial for many years now due to the character typically being represented in blackface, although some claim it is to show his occupation as a chimney sweep). Saint Nicholas’ companions act as the saint’s opposite and punish children who misbehave by doing anything from leaving them coal to kidnapping them.
On the day of the celebration, traditions include putting out empty shoes or stockings for Nicholas to leave small gifts in, leaving out shoes filled with hay or carrots for Nicholas’ horse, and using food to honour the man. In some countries, families participate in a feast. Families in other countries participate in a fast. And some still have a humble meal of only fish and bread. In Greece, celebrations are held on ships and in ports because Nicholas is considered the patron saint of the Greek Navy. In many places, Saint Nicholas Day is also the main winter holiday for Christians, superseding Christmas. The tradition of Saint Nicholas Day is one that varies widely and is celebrated by millions, all to honour an ancient saint who brought good to the world.
Come back tomorrow to learn about a tradition celebrated on the opposite side of the world, in Colombia. Also, check out other traditions we’ve featured by clicking on any of the links below.
December 1: Cavalcade of Lights — Toronto
December 3: KFC Dinner — Japan
