Customs Around St. Nicholas

St. Nicholas is a cherished figure during the pre-Christmas season and is one of the most popular saints. Children across Europe eagerly anticipate December 6th, when St. Nicholas, or someone impersonating him, brings them sweets and small gifts.

Origins of St. Nicholas

The legend of St. Nicholas combines the stories of two historical figures. The primary model was Nicholas of Myra, a bishop in Asia Minor who lived around 270 AD. Born into a wealthy family, he became a priest and later a bishop, known for his generous distribution of wealth and alleged miracles. The second influence is believed to be Abbot Nicholas of Sion, who lived in the 6th century and was also recognized for his benevolence and miraculous deeds.

Gifts in Stockings

The legendary generosity of St. Nicholas is the reason for the tradition of small gifts on his feast day. He is considered a special patron of children. Traditionally, gifts were left secretly. Children would place their shoes or boots outside their doors on the eve of December 6th, and they would be filled with treats by morning. In Germany, Austria, and other countries, children continue this practice, placing their shoes out for gifts, nuts, and fruits. In medieval times, these were the most suitable personal items children possessed for receiving gifts.

The Ship Tradition

Since the 15th century, the custom of “Schiffchensetzen” (placing small ships) has been known. Small ships crafted from paper or other materials were used as containers for St. Nicholas’s gifts. This tradition likely originates from St. Nicholas also being venerated as the patron saint of sailors. Many churches built by seafaring communities are named after him. In the Netherlands and parts of Belgium, “Sinterklaas” arrives by ship in mid-November, traditionally from Spain, and is often welcomed with festive processions.

“Were You Good?”

In many families, a person dressed as St. Nicholas visits to deliver small gifts. This practice dates back to the Reformation. The impersonator typically wears a bishop’s attire, including a pointed hat and staff, and often carries a golden book detailing children’s deeds. Well-behaved children receive sweets, apples, nuts, or gingerbread. It is customary for children to thank St. Nicholas with a poem or song, with “Lasst uns froh und munter sein” being a well-known carol.

Frightening Companions

Since the 19th century, St. Nicholas has often been accompanied by figures like Knecht Ruprecht, who carries a sack of gifts and a switch for misbehaving children. In parts of southern Germany and Austria, the intimidating “Krampus” accompanies St. Nicholas. Clad in a carved mask with horns, shaggy fur, and carrying a switch, the Krampus threatens unruly children. They also drag rattling chains and loud bells, making them a feared presence. In rural areas, groups of Krampuses are known to roam, frightening both children and adults with their masks, switches, and chains.

St. Nicholas Customs in Switzerland

In Switzerland, children receive visits from the “Samichlaus” and his helper, “Schmutzli.” The traditions are similar to those in Germany and Austria, with the difference that naughty children are threatened with being put into Schmutzli’s sack. Swiss children also recite poems or play music to thank the Samichlaus for gifts of fruit, nuts, and small presents.

Gifts on St. Nicholas Day

In many places, St. Nicholas Day is a time for smaller gifts and sweets, with larger presents reserved for Christmas. However, in the Netherlands, St. Nicholas Day was traditionally the main gift-giving occasion. While this is changing, with many Dutch families now focusing major gift exchanges on Christmas.