December 6th ~ St. Nicholas Day
December 19th if following the Julian Calendar
St. Nicholas Day is celebrated in many ways—the stately bishop may lead a town parade, be commemorated in saint's day worship, visit schools, hospitals and homes or provide the focus for a party, come in secret under cover of night to leave sweet treats and small gifts for children. St. Nicholas Day may be the primary gift-giving day for some Orthodox Christians, particularly those in Ukrainian and Serbian Orthodox churches following the Julian Calendar. This leaves Christmas for reflection, church, and time with family.
 Castricum, the Netherlands Photo: P Van Trigt |  Sint-Nicolaaskerk, Sint Niklaas, Belgium Photo: G Vandenheide |
 St. Hilary School Fairlawn, Ohio |  Postcard, Belgium St Nicholas Center Collection |
However he comes, Saint Nicholas reminds us that giving is more important than receiving, and doing for others is the faithful way to live.