Discover the history of the holiday, traditions, and associated signs
For the second consecutive year, Ukraine is celebrating St. Nicholas Day according to the new calendar on December 6. How old traditions integrate with new realities, where in Ukraine one can meet St. Nicholas, and whether the church advises giving gifts on this day were explored by Kashtan NEWS.
History of the holiday
St. Nicholas of Myra (Nicholas the Miracle Worker), one of the most revered saints in Christian tradition, lived in the second half of the 3rd century to the first half of the 4th century. He was a bishop in the city of Myra in Lycia, a region that is now part of modern-day Antalya in Turkey.
Legends about Bishop Nicholas tell of his compassion and the numerous miracles he performed: healing the sick, saving people from drowning during storms, and resurrecting a sailor who fell from the ship's mast.
One particularly popular story is about Nicholas and three poor sisters who could not marry due to the lack of a dowry. When their father fell seriously ill, the family became destitute, almost forcing the daughters to become prostitutes to earn at least a crust of bread. The legend tells that Bishop Nicholas secretly left a bag of gold at the family's home, allowing the girls to marry and avoid a life of sin.
This story laid the foundation for the folkloric image of St. Nicholas, who gives gifts to children by placing them in chimneys or on windowsills (as legend has it, he left the bag of gold at the home of the impoverished family in this manner). In some regions, it is believed that the gift should appear in stockings hung by the fireplace. Thus, the stocking along with the so-called "Christmas cane" – a stylized bishop's crozier – symbolizes the winter holidays.
0 Globally, the folkloric St. Nicholas is also known as Santa Claus, Sinterklaas, and in French-speaking countries, as Père Noël (literally "Father Christmas"). He is typically depicted as a kind old man with a fluffy white beard, wearing a red or blue coat with fur trim, carrying a staff and a bag of gifts. In Ukrainian tradition, Nicholas is portrayed in a robe adorned with gold and a bishop's mitre.
Where to meet St. Nicholas in Ukraine
Every year, from the beginning of December, many cities open St. Nicholas residences where children can meet this fairy-tale character. Even amidst martial law, this tradition continues: notably, the main St. Nicholas residence has opened in the Great Bell Tower of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. In addition to meeting Nicholas, visitors can explore the wish arch and take photos for memories.
The St. Nicholas residence in the Great Lavra Bell Tower will operate from 12:00 to 16:00 every Saturday and Sunday until December 25 inclusive. It will also be open today and on December 19 – on the old-style St. Nicholas Day.
1 Such residences are not only set up in cities but also, for instance, at the Ukrainian border – at the "Shehyni" checkpoint. As reported by the State Border Guard Service, border guards of the Lviv detachment have already allowed St. Nicholas into Ukraine. Today, travelers at the checkpoint can enjoy a festive photo zone and meet the saint, and all children crossing the border in Lviv region will receive gifts.
What else to do on St. Nicholas Day
It is believed that on this day, one should not argue, especially with children. Additionally, on St. Nicholas Day, it is undesirable to work physically hard or do household chores. It is strictly forbidden to refuse help to those in need, as St. Nicholas is renowned for his compassion.
2 As the Ukrainian Orthodox Church reminds, to properly honor St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker, one should take him as an example, emulating his spiritual virtues.
“Tell the children about the history of this holiday and the life of St. Nicholas, and why on this day we give gifts to one another. It is not necessary to give something material; our love, care, and compassion are also of great value. So let us share our warmth and love with people without expecting anything in return – both on St. Nicholas Day and any other day,” – advise the OCU.
Konstantin MYKHAILENKO