Saint Nicholas

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St. 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.

St. 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.

St. Nicholas Day References and Related Sites