Santa’s a good guy and all that. But do you ever feel like your children are getting too into the gifts—and forgetting the spirit—of the season? If so, you may want to tell them the story of Saint Nicholas.
What is St. Nicholas Day?
Nicholas was born in the third century in the village of Patara in what is now the southern coast of Turkey. His parents were wealthy, but died when he was young, leaving him a vast inheritance. Nicholas used all of the money left him to help the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He was known, especially, for his love of children.
Nicholas later became a saint and is celebrated each year on Dec. 6. His Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas, eventually evolved into Santa Claus. We now know Santa as the jolly fellow who came to dominate the holiday landscape with his rosy cheeks and team of reindeer, but he started out as a much slimmer and more serious figure.
While Santa is a mainstay in many countries around the world, many still choose to also celebrate the original St. Nicholas Day.
When is Saint Nicholas Day?
Saint Nicholas day takes place on the day that he became a saint—Dec. 6. Many people now view it as an opportunity to set the spirit of the season and tell the story of the saint’s giving spirit.
Of course, there is a small gift involved as well. Leave your shoes out and Saint Nicholas will fill them with candy, nuts, and small trinkets. Just don’t forget to leave a little something in your shoe for the horse or donkey that Nicholas rides on. Grain and carrots are both good choices.
Happy Holidays from StorageMart
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