Saint Nicholas Day

Saint Nicholas Day Facts

• Saint Nicholas was born 280 A.D in Patara Lycia, which is modern-day Turkey. He devoted himself to others, even using his inheritance to help the poor and sick.
• The poem, An Account of a Visit From Saint Nicholas, written in 1820 by Clement Clarke Moore, describes Saint Nicholas as a jolly heavy set man who would come down chimneys and leave gifts for children. This would be the inspiration for Santa Claus.
• A popular tradition adopted by Christmas is the act of leaving one’s shoes outside their door. Stockings hung on a fireplace mantel are also common. During the night, Saint Nicholas comes. In the morning, those shoes and stockings are found full of gifts and treats.

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Saint Nicholas Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Be kind and charitable. As a patron saint, Saint Nicholas was very generous and was well known for giving to others.
• Continue the German tradition of baking Stutenkerl. Stutenkerl is a German pastry made from sweet, leavened dough. It is shaped in the form of a man, a reference to Saint Nicholas.
• Read a story about Saint Nicholas. We suggest The Baker's Dozen: A Saint Nicholas Tale.

Saint Nicholas Day References and Related Sites