For many families in Greater Cincinnati and across the United States, the Christmas season officially kicks off on Black Friday. However, in this region, the true festive spirit begins with a unique celebration on December 6 known as the Feast of St. Nicholas, affectionately called St. Nick’s Day.
While St. Nick’s Day isn’t as widely recognized in the U.S. as Christmas, it holds a cherished place in cities with significant German and Dutch populations, such as Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and Cleveland.
St. Nicholas, a historical figure who served as a bishop in the Roman Empire, is the inspiration behind this holiday. Renowned for his generosity—particularly toward children—St. Nicholas is celebrated for his habit of secretly giving gifts to the less fortunate. This tradition is reflected in kids hanging stockings or leaving plates for treats, a custom thought to have originated with St. Nicholas leaving coins for children in their stockings.
Observed annually on December 6, St. Nick’s Day combines elements of gift-giving and festive treats. On this day, children commonly find sweets, cookies, and small gifts placed under their pillows or hidden in their shoes or stockings. Traditions vary, but popular items include oranges, chocolate coins, and candy canes. Children might also leave letters for St. Nicholas, along with carrots or grass for his donkey.
The practice of celebrating St. Nicholas Day took root in America with German immigrants in the 1600s. Cincinnati has its own strong connection to the tradition, with Dr. Ludwig “Louis” Rehfuss, a German immigrant, credited for introducing the first Christmas tree in the area. The local German heritage has kept St. Nick’s Day alive and well in Greater Cincinnati.
A distinguishing characteristic of this holiday is the connection between St. Nicholas and Santa Claus. On St. Nick’s Eve, children receive gifts based on their behavior throughout the year, while Santa Claus, often seen as a contemporary continuation of this tradition, plays a similar role on Christmas Eve. The modern image of Santa Claus, largely popularized by cartoonist Thomas Nast in the 1860s, draws from the likeness of St. Nicholas.
As the festive season unfolds, St. Nick’s Day serves as a heartwarming reminder of the spirit of giving and community—an opportunity for families to engage in cherished traditions passed down through generations.
This rich tapestry of history and celebration not only enriches the holiday season but also fosters a sense of community and connection. As more people discover and embrace St. Nick’s Day, it stands as a beacon of warmth and generosity in the heart of winter.