St. Nicholas Day is a holiday celebrated by German and Dutch communities in the U.S. with traditions such as bonfire ceremonies, Christmas markets, and gift-giving in honor of the fourth-century Bishop of Myra known for his kindness to children and the poor. The holiday is celebrated on December 6th, with children receiving cookies, candies, and gifts under their pillows or in their shoes. St. Nicholas Day was brought to the U.S. with German immigration in the 1600s, particularly in cities like Cincinnati where the tradition of setting up Christmas trees began. St. Nick’s Eve is when St. Nicholas fills stockings for children based on their behavior, while Santa Claus, a depiction popularized by cartoonist Thomas Nast in the 19th century, similarly fills stockings and gives presents on Christmas Eve. The differences between St. Nicholas and Santa Claus lie in their origins, with St. Nicholas being a historical figure and Santa Claus being a modern creation based on St. Nicholas’ likeness. The holiday of St. Nicholas Day continues to be celebrated in various cities across the U.S., showcasing the rich cultural traditions of German and Dutch communities during the holiday season.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
