The Legend of Saint Nicholas: A Secular Myth at the Heart of Our Traditions
The legend of Saint Nicholas dates back to the 11th century, combining historical and folkloric elements from the Franco-German regions. It tells the story of three children lost one winter evening, taken in by a butcher named Pierre Lenoir (Peter Schwartz in Germany). Unfortunately, the latter kills them and puts them in his salting tub. But the bishop Saint Nicholas, passing by, discovers the crime. Thanks to his miraculous powers, he resurrects the children by extending three fingers above the salting tub.
This repentant butcher then becomes Father Fouettard, responsible for reprimanding disobedient children. Symbolically, he embodies the opposite of Saint Nicholas, representing the dark side in the face of the saint's goodness, who rewards good children. The legend has been enriched over the centuries, mixing influences such as those of the Nordic god Odin, with his ravens and his horse, recalling the attributes of Saint Nicholas.
Saint Nicholas Day in Belgium: An Unmissable Event
Today, Saint Nicholas is celebrated in many European countries, including Belgium. Every year, on the night of December 5-6, Saint Nicholas brings sweets (chocolates, speculoos, dried fruits) to good children. In Belgium, he is known as Sinterklaas among Dutch speakers, where he arrives on a boat from Spain, while among French speakers, he travels with a donkey.
The tradition also includes cougnous, small brioche buns shaped like a baby Jesus, and student festivities where students parade through cities like Mons, Liège, and Brussels to collect donations and celebrate with a drink.
The Modernity of Tradition
Saint Nicholas Day remains a living tradition in Belgium, mixing ancient legends and modern practices. Schoolchildren leave their shoes in the evening to receive surprises, and students perpetuate the festivities through parades and exchanges of sweets.
Discover our Saint-Nicolas chocolates and specialties on our online store and let yourself be seduced by the authentic flavors of this traditional celebration.
