IT’S an ancient festive tradition celebrated across much of Europe... and now the celebration has made its way to Glasgow.
Tonight marks the eve of Saint Nicholas Day when children leave their shoes or boots out in the hope that the generous saint will fill them with small gifts.
Many children in Govanhill mark the tradition – and this year charity Community Renewal is helping making the event extra special.
Last night and tonight, a convoy of St Nicholas’s helpers will leave sweets and fruit for children with an invite to a special Zoom party on Saturday.
Leon Puska, one of Community Renewal’s youth workers with Govanhill Roma Youth Project, said: “Usually our St Nicholas party is a big event attracting lots of children from the Roma community.
“But this year a party is not possible because of the Level 4 Covid-19 restrictions – so we will be delivering gifts of sweets, fruit, crayons and colouring books to children.
“It won’t be quite as much fun as the party but our volunteers from the Roma young leaders and community forum will be out on the streets dressed as Saint Nicholas, Krampus and the Angel making deliveries to local children.
“Having sweets in your shoes on St Nicholas day is an important memory for children to keep.”
Saint Nicholas Day recognises the third-century saint who became an inspiration for the modern-day Santa Claus.
But there is a darker side to the legend as the Saint was accompanied by Krampus – a frightening beast-like creature, with horns and a long red tongue.
While St Nicholas brings gifts to good boys and girls, in ancient folklore Krampus, who emerges during the Yule season, is looking for naughty children to punish for their horrible ways.
As a balance to this St Nick is often accompanied by an angel.
The gift bag deliveries will reach more than 280 children whose families might not be in a position to afford such a traditional celebration.
The packs contain crayons and outlines of St Nicholas, Krampus and the angel for children to colour.
Families are invited to join a Zoom party tomorrow afternoon to show-off their drawings of St Nicholas and to be part of the wider magic of the festival.
Community Renewal Roma is funded by a Local Conversation project supported by the People’s Health Trust.
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