Teaching German lessons to children and adults in Australia, I always make sure my students become familiar not only with the language but also with the important German traditions and customs that shape German culture. Language and culture belong together, and celebrating days like Nikolaus gives children a meaningful connection to both.
It is not only children who enjoy learning about typical German customs. Many of my adult students love it just as much. Quite a few have children or grandchildren living in Germany, and for them it is important to understand how their families live, what their everyday cultural world looks like, and how German children grow up. Traditions are a big part of growing up in Germany, and learning about them helps bridge distance and build understanding.
The same applies to German kids in Australia. For them, traditions are an important way to stay connected to the culture their parents grew up with, even if they now live abroad. And for many of us who grew up in Germany, 6 December was one of the most exciting days of the year: Nikolaustag.
Every year on this day, many if not most German families celebrate Nikolaus, one of those small but special traditions that make the Advent season so unique.
What Happens on Nikolaustag
On the evening of 5 December, children carefully clean one of their boots and place it outside the door. Overnight, Nikolaus fills it with small gifts such as:
• mandarins and nuts
• chocolate
• a few treats or a little surprise
The tradition comes from the belief that Saint Nicholas rewarded helpful and kind children. The boot-cleaning ritual reflects the value of effort and preparation: if you put in the work, good things will come. Nikolaustag is a day full of excitement, anticipation, and small acts of joy that children remember for years.
Who Was Nikolaus
The tradition is based on Saint Nicholas of Myra, a fourth-century bishop known for his generosity. One well-known story tells of him secretly helping a poor family by throwing bags of gold through their window at night. This gesture later inspired the idea of giving gifts in secret.
Over the centuries, these stories spread across Europe and evolved into regional customs. In Germany, Nikolaus became a symbol of kindness, charity, and care for children.
Regional Differences Across Germany
While Nikolaus Day is celebrated throughout Germany, the details can vary:
Most Parts of Germany
Nikolaus appears alone, friendly and encouraging. He may visit kindergartens or schools, reading from his golden book about the children’s good deeds, with perhaps a gentle reminder for the year ahead.
Southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland
In the south, Nikolaus sometimes appears with a companion:
• Krampus, a horned, frightening figure meant to encourage children to behave
• Knecht Ruprecht, traditionally a darker helper carrying a sack and a switch, mostly symbolic today
Many families now prefer a softer version of the tradition, focusing on the joy rather than the scary elements.
Why the Nikolaustag Tradition Still Matters
Nikolaus Day encourages children and adults to appreciate small acts of kindness and enjoy a bit of early Christmas magic.
For families outside Germany, it is a beautiful opportunity to stay connected to German heritage. These traditions carry memories, values, and a sense of belonging.
For German kids in Australia, it creates a connection to the culture their parents grew up in. It helps them understand where they come from and what shaped their German family life.
For me as a German teacher in Australia, sharing these traditions is an essential part of my work. Whether in my German classes, through German for kids programs, or with my German for adults learners, I believe that learning a language becomes much more interesting when students also understand the culture behind it.
I’m excited to be part of your language journey – let’s make it a successful one!
Warm regards,
Nadia
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