Saint Nicholas Day

December 6 is St. Nicholas Day!

Saint Nicholas, or Nikolaos of Myra, passed away on December 6, 343. St. Nicholas had a reputation for generally working wonders and for helping the poor. As he was a very modest person, he did not want to give his gifts openly, so he did it during the night when everybody was asleep. For example it is said that he put coins in the shoes left out for him.

Nowadays, St. Nicholas is still remembered. Traditionally, in Europe, big and small kids put their boots outside on St. Nicholas Day. If they were good they will find little gifts and treats in their boots the next morning. If they were not so good, they will receive a little birch and no or only a few treats.