So, is it true that the Polish Santa Claus visits twice? Yes, it is true! Let me explain.

December 6th is St. Nicolaus day (Mikołajki or Dzień Świętego Mikołaja), and traditionally it’s been a day when people give their children small gifts. But only those who’d behaved themselves, obviously. Santa Claus for most people in Poland will more likely be associated with that day then, rather than Christmas, although – bit confusingly – for many others he is a secular symbol of Christmas and therefore comes back on Christmas Eve too with even more gifts.

St. Nicholas Day, Dec. 6th – Dzień Świętego Mikołaja – starts off the Christmas holidays in Poland. It was eagerly awaited by the children in my family.

Mikołaj places gifts under children’s pillows. Alternatively, Mikołaj  visits in person, either dressed in elegant bishop’s clothing or in the merry red winter suit typical to the Western Santa Claus.

During Christmas kids open their gifts (at least that is how it was in my home) after Christmas Eve dinner, once you can spot at least one star in the sky!

I remember the day I found out that that Santa was actually not real…It was December 6th and I was 8 years old. I went to bed and woke up to a big noise…It was my dad who tripped on the stairs while bringing our presents upstairs..I closed my eyes and pretended I was sleeping…He was next to my bed in a moment placing gifts next to my pillow!

I’m not sure how long does it take to most of the kids to figure it out. I remember I was a little disappointed:(

How old were you when you when you found out the truth?

Do następnego razu… (Till next time…)