As the crisp December air settles over Romania, excitement builds for one of the most beloved traditions of the season: Saint Nicholas Eve. On the night of December 5th, children across the country diligently wash their shoes and place them by the door or window, hoping to wake up to gifts from Saint Nicholas—or, if they have been less than angelic, a nuia (a small decorated twig) as a reminder to behave.

This tradition holds a special place in Romanian culture and resonates with similar customs in other European countries, most notably the Dutch Sinterklaas. However, the Romanian take has its own charm, blending folklore, family rituals, and a gentle moral lesson.

A Childhood Memory: The Nuia and the Gifts

Growing up in Romania, I eagerly anticipated Saint Nicholas Eve every year. My shoes, though not always pristine, were washed and polished to perfection in the hope of impressing Saint Nicholas. Despite my best efforts, I never entirely escaped the nuia. Yet, to my relief, it was always accompanied by small gifts—chocolates, fruits, and perhaps a cherished toy. The nuia became less of a punishment and more of a playful nudge, a reminder of the year’s occasional mischief.

This duality—of both admonishment and reward—captures the spirit of the tradition. It acknowledges that no child is perfect but offers them a chance to reflect, reset, and move forward with kindness and good intentions.

The Origins of Saint Nicholas Eve

Saint Nicholas, or “Moș Nicolae” in Romanian, has been celebrated for centuries as the protector of children and the bringer of gifts. The tradition is deeply rooted in the story of Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and care for the less fortunate.

In Romania, Saint Nicholas Eve has its unique flavor, blending Christian values with folklore. The nuia, for instance, is tied to the legend of Saint Nicholas carrying a stick to ward off evil. Misbehaving children might find this twig in their shoes as a gentle warning. This aspect mirrors traditions in Holland, where children also anticipate both gifts and the possibility of a “roe” (a bundle of birch twigs).

A Global Connection: Romania and Holland

The similarities between the Romanian and Dutch traditions are striking. In Holland, children leave out shoes filled with hay or carrots for Sinterklaas’s horse, while in Romania, the focus is on cleanliness and readiness to receive Saint Nicholas’s generosity. In both countries, however, the traditions emphasize the values of reflection, generosity, and family togetherness.

Carrying the Tradition Forward

Today, Saint Nicholas Eve remains a cherished event in Romanian households. For me, the memory of waking up to find both a nuia and a sweet surprise in my shoes is a reminder of the balance between accountability and forgiveness. It’s a lesson I carry with me even as an adult.

This year, as I watch children around me eagerly clean their shoes and wait for Saint Nicholas, I am reminded of the enduring magic of this tradition. Whether in Romania, Holland, or beyond, these customs connect us to our heritage, our families, and the values that shape us.

So, as you prepare for this special evening, take a moment to reflect on the year that has passed. Wash your shoes, leave them by the door, and who knows? Saint Nicholas might just leave you a surprise—or a reminder to be your best self in the year to come.