Saint Nicholas Day

What Is Saint Nicholas Day?

December 6th is Saint Nicholas Day, marking the death of Nicholas of Myra, a cleric believed to have lived in the 3rd and 4th centuries. From the many stories of his giving to the poor, the day became an occasion for giving presents to children. He is also known as the figure behind Santa Claus.

The Saint Behind Santa Claus

Nicholas is said to have donated much of his wealth to the church and devoted his life to helping the poor. He has been venerated as the patron saint of children, unmarried young women, merchants, pawnbrokers, pharmacists and others.

• Figure: Nicholas of Myra, a cleric of the 3rd-4th centuries
• Origin of the date: the date of his death
• Patron of: children, unmarried young women, merchants, pawnbrokers, pharmacists, Russia
• Modern custom: a day for giving presents to children

Sinterklaas and Krampus on the Eve

The night of December 5th is the eve of Saint Nicholas Day. In the Netherlands, the legendary "Sinterklaas" is said to visit households with children and distribute presents -- and that name is the origin of "Santa Claus." In Austria and elsewhere, the monster Krampus who accompanies Nicholas is said to punish badly behaved children, and costumed figures parade through the streets. In some regions, the day is treated as more important than Christmas itself.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Trace the etymology of Santa Claus back to Sinterklaas
• Compare pre-Christmas customs across European countries
• Start preparing Christmas presents today
• Read up on the darker side of the tradition, such as Krampus

Another Gift-Giving Day, Three Weeks Before Christmas

The story of Santa Claus runs back through the saint of December 6th. The day sits at the entrance to the final three weeks before Christmas.