Advent Fact

The modern day figure of Father Christmas is based on Fourth Century Greek bishop Saint Nicholas (also known as Nikolaos of Myra), the only son of wealthy Christian parents, who became one of the youngest bishops at the age of 17.

There are many stories and legends surrounding the life of Nicholas, one being that he would often be seen dressed in his red and white bishop's robes, riding on a donkey and handing out gifts to children and the needy.

December 6th is St Nicholas Day, a festival for children in many countries in Europe (19th December in most Orthodox countries). The night before the festival, children leave their shoes by the fireplace or outside the bedroom door in the hope of a visit from the great saint, and that they will find them filled with presents the next morning.