As the Christmas season kicks off with Black Friday, families in Greater Cincinnati look forward to a unique celebration that marks the beginning of the festive spirit: the Feast of St. Nicholas, celebrated annually on December 6. This special day, known affectionately as St. Nick’s Day, features traditions that set it apart from the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day festivities.
While St. Nick’s Day isn’t a widespread celebration in the U.S., it holds a special place in cities with significant German or Dutch populations, including Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and Cleveland. The origins of St. Nicholas Day lie in the history of St. Nicholas of Myra, a bishop in the Roman Empire known for his charitable acts, particularly his gift-giving to children and the impoverished. He is famously associated with leaving gold coins, which inspired the longstanding custom of children hanging stockings for gifts.
St. Nicholas is believed to have died on December 6, 343 A.D., which is now recognized as his feast day. The tradition of honoring St. Nicholas gained traction during the medieval period, especially in Germany and German-speaking regions.
Celebrated on December 6, St. Nick’s Day includes fun activities for children, such as receiving cookies, candies, and small gifts placed under pillows or in shoes and stockings. Popular items often include oranges, chocolate coins, and candy canes. Children also engage in the tradition of leaving letters for St. Nicholas and treats for his donkey or horse.
The tradition made its way to America through German immigrants starting in the 1600s. Dr. Ludwig “Louis” Rehfuss was pivotal in introducing the first Christmas tree in Cincinnati during the early 19th century, which coincided with the local embracing of St. Nick’s Day. According to Don Heinrich Tolzmann, curator of the German Heritage Museum, the celebration remains a cherished custom in the region due to its German roots.
Many people wonder about the distinction between St. Nicholas and Santa Claus. On St. Nick’s Eve, St. Nicholas rewards children based on their behavior throughout the year, while Santa Claus, also known by various names, performs a similar role on Christmas Eve. The modern portrayal of Santa Claus was popularized by cartoonist Thomas Nast during the Civil War, where he depicted Santa sharing gifts with Union soldiers.
In summary, St. Nick’s Day offers a delightful way for families in Greater Cincinnati and other cities with German heritage to celebrate the holiday season, rooted in rich traditions and acts of kindness exemplified by St. Nicholas himself. This early festive occasion brightens the holiday spirit and reminds us of the importance of generosity and love during this special time of year.