On the eve of December 6th, children living in the Northeast of France, as well as in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, leave their shoes by the fireplace and head to bed. When they wake up, they are excited to find a gift of candy or toys in their shoes. This celebration is called Saint Nicholas Day.

France has a very strong Catholic heritage, so Christmas is a day more reserved for religious celebration. However, the holiday culture is still prominent in the country, but the gifts are just exchanged earlier in the month. The presents children find in their shoes come from Saint Nicholas, who is an equivalent of Santa Claus. His popularity comes from a legend in which he saves three children from an evil butcher. Instead of reindeer, he is accompanied by a donkey, whom children also leave out carrots for. 

Did you know that Saint Nicholas has an evil counterpart? Pere Fouettard or Father Whipper in English is a dark bearded figure who deals with the naughty children by leaving them coal. He also has another method, but it’s very apparent in his name that you would want to be nice each year. 

The French class at East has celebrated Saint Nicholas Day for many years. This year we each left a shoe underneath the (albeit projected) fireplace. Dormez-vous, or else Saint Nicholas won’t come!

This year we received a candy cane and a Santa Claus chocolate in our shoe. Outside of gift-giving, other traditions for Saint Nicholas day include parades and festivals. Much like in the U.S, Saint Nicholas also visits hospitals and nurseries in costume to spread holiday spirit and cheer.