Most children in South Tyrol know St. Nicholas for the gifts he brings. But why do we actually celebrate him? We did some research for you: ready for a little history lesson?

“Lustig, lustig, tralla lalala …”

… bald ist Nikolausabend da! (“St. Nicholas will soon arrive”: this is the song that children sing in the streets). This tradition goes back to Saint Nicholas of Myra, who lived between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD in what is now Turkey. He was known for his kindness and generosity, embodying charity and compassion in his daily life. His day of death, 6 December, is commemorated as a day to remember his good deeds. Today he’s not only one of the most venerated saints in Christianity, but also the patron saint of numerous countries and professions.

Why does St. Nicholas come to visit us?

In the 15th century, it was customary to make small “Nicholas ships” out of paper and place them outside the front door on the eve of St. Nicholas Day so that the saint could leave his gifts inside. This custom goes back to the legend of the three virgins whom St. Nicholas is said to have helped. Over time, the paper boats were replaced by stockings and boots. Traditionally, St. Nicholas fills them with mandarins, nuts, and sweets – but only for the well-behaved children. And as he arrives, people like to sing the beloved German children’s song “Lasst uns froh und munter sein” (Let us be happy and cheerful).


Foto: unsplash.com


And who is his grumpy companion?

For several centuries, St. Nicholas has not travelled alone during his gift-giving rounds. At his side is his grim antagonist, known in South Tyrol as “Knecht Ruprecht”. Originally, he was meant to frighten children into being pious; according to another legend, he drove away evil spirits. Over time, he became Nicholas’s helper, carrying the sack full of presents. Knecht Ruprecht is often referred to as a “Krampus”, although he usually doesn’t wear the same fearsome masks typical of the Krampus found here in South Tyrol.

Talking about Krampus: they’re coming!

The evening before St. Nicholas Day, 5 December, traditionally belongs to the Krampus. Across the region, you’ll find spectacular Krampus runs featuring dramatic light, sound effects, and staged tussles. Younger children shouldn’t attend, as the masks can be extremely frightening – though they’re also strikingly elaborate and beautifully crafted. We’ve already introduced you to the Krampus tradition in greater detail here.