Saint Nicholas Day, celebrated on December 19, holds great significance across Russia, honoring the feast of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. This day is not only about reverence for the saint, known for his miraculous deeds and compassion toward children and the impoverished, but it also embodies centuries-old traditions cherished by families throughout the nation.
Nicholas, noted as the protector of children, was born around 270 AD in Patara, located within modern-day Turkey. His life was marked by his role as the Bishop of Myra, where he was known for acts of kindness and extraordinary miracles, including saving sailors from storms and resurrecting the dead. According to TASS, “Утром принято отправляться на службу в храм.” (Translation: “It is customary to attend church services in the morning.”). This pious tradition sets the tone for the day as many worshippers partake in services to commemorate the saint.
One of the more delightful aspects of Saint Nicholas Day is the practice of gift-giving, especially among children. The roots of this joyous tradition can be traced back to the saint's legacy of generosity. TASS explains, “Считается, что отсюда берет начало традиция вручать подарки на Новый год.” (Translation: “It is believed this is where the tradition of giving gifts at New Year originated.”). It is common for children to place sweets under their pillows the night before, hoping to find treats the next morning, mirroring the later customs associated with New Year celebrations.
The climate of the season—marked by frosty weather—adds to the festive atmosphere. Families often gather to partake in feasting, and it is on this day when people carry out several customs and rituals believed to bring blessings for the coming year. The customs include visiting markets, where it was thought “посещение ярмарки в праздник Николая Чудотворца 19 декабря будет удачным, никто не обманет.” (Translation: “Visiting the markets on Saint Nicholas Day will be lucky; no one will deceive.”) according to Izvestia.
Despite the joy, the day is also steeped with guidelines on conduct. Some actions are strongly discouraged and have been for centuries. For example, it is traditionally believed to be unlucky to argue or blame children on Saint Nicholas Day. Иказается,"На Николу Зимнего было запрещено ругаться и сквернословить, предаваться унынию и печалиться." (Translation: “On Saint Nicholas Day, it was forbidden to curse, to use profanities, to succumb to despair and sadness.”), highlighting the saint's association with kindness and forgiveness.
People were also discouraged from performing certain household chores or engaging in heavy labor, under the belief these tasks should be postponed lest they bring bad fortune. “Уборку, рукоделие, различную тяжелую работу следовало перенести на другой день,” the lore continues, indicating deep-rooted cultural respect for the day.
Despite the serious undertones surrounding etiquette, children break the tension by enjoying treats and playing games. Among them, wedding plans and matchmaking take place on this day, with the young taking their cues from the season’s festive air. This intertwining of joy, spirituality, and prudence creates a unique environment for families across Russia to celebrate.
Saint Nicholas Day also encourages sociability and community bonds. Families and neighbors come together, putting aside their daily worries to partake in the day’s blessings. It serves as both a reminder of the saint’s legacy and the warmth of community—a bridge to the upcoming New Year festivities.
Through history, the festivities have taken various forms, with the peak of celebrations often coinciding with Russia’s winter conditions. It is said, according to popular belief, “По приметам, сколько выпадет снега на Николин день, столько травы и вырастет весной.” (Translation: “By the signs, the amount of snow falling on Saint Nicholas Day predicts the amount of grass growing in spring.”) steeping the day not only with joy but also with anticipation for what lies ahead.
The observance of Saint Nicholas Day has brought many different customs to Russia, with each region adding its unique flavor to the celebration. Whether through food, family gatherings, or traditions passed down through generations, the essence remains the same. It is about faith, community, and remembering the benevolence embodied by Saint Nicholas.
Saint Nicholas Day reminds Russians of the importance of kindness, togetherness, and respect for tradition—a celebration deeply embedded within the cultural fabric of the nation.
