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Step 1
St. Nicholas statueThe night before St. Nicholas Day, tell your family about the Legend of Saint Nicholas. Historically, St. Nicholas was the Christian bishop of Myra, a Roman province in present-day Turkey. One of the most famous legends holds that he saved the dignity of three young women by leaving a bag of gold for each one, possibly by dropping them down a chimney, where one fell into a stocking hung to dry.
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Step 2
Empty shoesHave children (and adults!) leave their empty shoes outside their bedroom doors when they go to bed on the evening of December 5th.
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Step 3
Gold coinsFill shoes with small gifts, toys, candy and coins (edible coins wrapped in gold foil are popular in Germany). Little gifts, including something religious, are the custom.
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Step 4
Enjoy a delightful morning as children relish their new gifts from St. Nicholas. Make a festive breakfast and have some family time if schedules allow. Happy St. Nicholas Day!
Comments
juanabgood said
on 1/8/2009 Wonderful article! I love St. Nicholas Day. We celebrate it every year, too. My son was named after St. Nicholas.
Wasatch said
on 12/2/2008 Being Dutch we did this and I now do it with my kids
WordWhizKid said
on 11/25/2008 Thanks for the article! My dad's of German descent and we always celebrated St. Nicholas Day growing up, this brings back memories;)
MommyBear said
on 11/24/2008 This is so awesome! Thanks for sharing. I can't wait to tell my daughter about this day. :) 5*****
bossypants said
on 11/23/2008 I've heard of this day but didn't know the traditions. It's always nince to have another day to celebrate! Thanks!