Written by Alexandra Goranova, Gergana Stoyanova, Stoyan Dukov, and Victoria Ivanova
St. Nicholas Day, a celebration of generosity and tradition, brings communities together with feasts, festivities, and a deep reverence for the patron saint of sailors, children, and the vulnerable.
The holiday was celebrated on Dec. 6, honoring the legacy of St. Nicholas of Myra (modern-day Turkey), a fourth century bishop known for his acts of generosity, miracles, and protection of the weak.The holiday is rooted in Christian tradition, with customs ranging from church services to festive feasts centered on fish, particularly carp. The day holds special significance in coastal towns like Burgas and Nesebar, blending religion with community celebrations that showcase local fishing heritage. Over time, St. Nicholas’ role as a gift-giver and protector influenced cultural traditions worldwide, including the creation of Santa Claus in Western cultures.
St. Nicholas Day, a cherished holiday in Christian traditions, is celebrated on different dates depending on regional customs. Western Christian countries mark the day on December 5 or 6, while in Eastern Christian countries, it is on December 18 or 19. In some traditions, May 9 is reserved to commemorate the transfer of St. Nicholas’ relics to Bari, Italy, in 1087.
The holiday’s hallmark is its rich culinary tradition, particularly dishes featuring fish, with carp taking center stage. Recipes for carp dishes vary by region. In Bulgaria, for example, carp is stuffed with walnuts, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in dough, and baked. Mrs. Nicolova, Biology teacher at “Geo Milev” English Language School says that she also enjoys the tradition of getting a scale from the carp and keeping it as a good luck charm.
In Poland, carp is often marinated, stuffed with mushrooms, and encased in a golden crust. Just as fish preferences vary culture to culture, they also vary person to person. For example, “Geo Milev” Biology teacher Mrs. Nicolova says she likes to make bonito or garfish. Ms. Atanasova, English teacher at “Geo Milev,” says she also likes “sea cherries,” which are an appetizer of crunchy fried shrimps, although shark and turbot are also sometimes used.
In Bulgaria, the coastal cities of Burgas and Nesebar hold St. Nicholas Day in high esteem, reflecting the Saint’s role as the patron of sailors and fishermen. Burgas, known for its vibrant fishing culture, celebrates the day as an official holiday. The city comes alive with music, dances, parades, and blessings of fishing boats at the harbor. Families gather in the city center to enjoy traditional foods and performances, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Philosophy teacher at “Geo Milev” Mr. Georgiev says, “The greatest beauty of this day is that many people celebrate, regardless of whether they bear the name Nikola because it is the day of the city of Burgas and everywhere around you is a holiday.”
Nesebar, a historic fishing town, also honors St. Nicholas with official celebrations. Although smaller in scale compared to Burgas, the community-focused events highlight the town’s heritage and bring locals together.
While there are town-wide events, some people prefer to celebrate in the comfort of their home with family and friends. Mrs. Luba, “Geo Milev” German teacher, says, “This is the little Christmas, as they say, for our family. We gather and share our good experiences and I congratulate all my acquaintances who bear the name of St. Nicholas.”
Speaking of name days, Mrs. Nicolova says, “It’s a special holiday for me because my husband’s name is also Nikolai.”
St. Nicholas, a fourth century bishop of Myra, is celebrated for his generosity, miracles, and protection of sailors and children. His reputation as a wonderworker grew through his miraculous deeds. Some of these include saving sailors from death at sea, promoting Christianity during a time when the religion was persecuted, and even fasting as an infant.
Ms. Luba says, “I know that this is the message to us people–to do good and thus be happy.”
In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, St. Nicholas is especially significant as a miracle worker and protector. Russia, Greece, Serbia, and Bulgaria celebrate with church services and feasts featuring fish, underscoring his connection to the sea and his protective role over those who rely on it.
In addition, St. Nicholas’ gift-giving and kindness inspired the modern figure of Santa Claus in Western cultures. Ms. Atanasova says that St. Nicholas Day is an opportunity to start looking ahead to the holiday season. “There is a general feeling of coziness, a homey kind of ease, topped with excitement about the upcoming Christmas holidays.”
As you prepare for Christmas, let the story of St. Nicholas serve as a reminder of the values that truly make this time of year special.