Saint Nicholas is a Christian figure who brings small gifts for good children on the eve of December 6th. Since Saint Nicholas is a bishop, he is originally portrayed wearing bishop's robes. He is accompanied by angels that have the list of the good children and “parkeljni” (little devils) that threaten the bad ones.
Children used to put the plates, baskets, shoes or bowls on tables or shelves in the kitchen. In the morning they were excited to find little presents such as nuts, hazelnuts, dry figs, apples, home-made socks or gloves. They were sad if there was a stick – “miklavževka” instead of a present. This meant that they were not obedient. “Miklavževka” was believed to be sacred, so it was not allowed to break it. Their mother put it somewhere where it could be clearly visible waiting till the next visit of Saint Nicholas.
Today, children are good, since Saint Nicholas brings everything the children wish. Their wish list is usually drawn up of toys and sweets.
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