Sankt Nikolaus visits children at their homes Published Dec. 1, 2009 By Iris Reiff 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Sankt Nikolaus Day, Dec. 6, is a part of the German Christmas tradition when children receive small gifts in shoes they leave outside their door overnight. The holiday is set aside to commemorate Bishop Nicholas of Myra, who lived in the 4th century. According to one legend, this clergyman gave gifts to the three daughters of an impoverished nobleman. Another version of the legend claims the bishop saved three scholastics from the clutches of a cannibal. During the Middle Ages this day commemorating Nikolaus was an occasion for charitable giving, rewarding students and giving children the opportunity to collect gifts. In recent times it's traditional that Sankt Nikolaus, the German Santa Claus, visits children the night before Sankt Nikolaus Day. He presents gifts and discusses the good and bad things the children did throughout the year. He also asks them to recite a poem or sing a Christmas song. The gifts are provided beforehand by the parents along with a list telling Sankt Nikolaus about what they want him to mention. Sometimes, Hans Muff, dressed in black and rattling a chain, accompanies Sankt Nikolaus. He usually carries a bag with an artificial limb sticking out to convince children he has already taken a bad child with him. If the children are afraid of the frightening character Hans Muff, he may wait outside. Often Hans Muff also helps Sankt Nikolaus present goodies to the children. If Sankt Nikolaus doesn't charge a fee for his visit, it's customary to tip him. In some towns, Sankt Nikolaus either arrives by sled if it snows or by coach. Children who aren't visited will set their shoes on their doorstep or windowsill, hoping Sankt Nikolaus will leave something for them for the next morning. Other children find a Nikolaus plate with cookies, fruits and candies on the table the next day.