6th December is St Nikolaus Day in Germany. This is a German tradition based around a celebration of the generosity of Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century Greek bishop. The bishop was said to have a fondness for gift-giving — specifically for leaving coins in people’s shoes. Celebrations of his generosity evolved over the centuries, giving rise not only to St Nikolaus in Germany but also to Santa Claus in North America, Father Christmas in the UK, Sinterklaas in the Netherlands and many, many other variations throughout Christian regions.

Children do have to work for their gifts though!

On the night of 5th December, children clean their shoes and leave them near the fireplace or front door. The next morning, they should find that their footwear has been filled overnight by St Nikolaus with small presents and treats, such as tangerines, sweets or stationery :-).

Parents who are new to this German tradition may want to ensure their children take part in the hope of receiving a visit from Saint Nikolaus in the early hours of the 6th!