Svatý Mikuláš

Svatý Mikuláš, the Czech St. Nick, typically dons the white robes of a bishop and wears a majestic white beard. Accompanied by an angel (who has lowered St. Nicholas to Earth from the heavens in a basket borne aloft by a golden rope) and a devil, Svatý Mikuláš brings gifts to children on the Eve of St. Nicholas, celebrated on December 5. The angel represents the good children, while the devil symbolizes the naughty ones. As a result, children get both the joy of receiving gifts and the thrill of a friendly scare.

If you’re visiting Prague or another city in the Czech Republic during this festive period, you may encounter St. Nicholas and his companions on their way to deliver gifts to children. The angel, complete with wings and a halo, typically distributes candy, while the devil carries a pitchfork or rattles chains—for entertainment, of course. Often, children are asked about their behavior over the past year, and they may recite a poem or sing a short song in exchange for candy and other treats.

This festive Santa and his helpers may enjoy a drink offered by parents once their responsibilities are complete, especially in Prague’s Old Town, a popular location for celebrating the evening with these three Christmas figures. Look for St. Nick and his helpers at Christmas markets in the Czech Republic.

Additionally, children may receive small gifts from family members on this day. Much like in other countries, a stocking may be hung and filled with candy, small toys, or other presents. Historically, these treats included nuts and oranges; however, parents have modernized their offerings to cater to today’s preferences. The notion of receiving coal serves as a gentle reminder for children to exhibit good behavior on this day.

Baby Jesus

Czech children experience the joy of receiving more gifts from Ježíšek, or Baby Jesus, on Christmas Eve. This heartwarming tradition has been part of Czech culture for 400 years. Parents heighten the magic of the day by asking the children to leave the room where the Christmas tree is located. They then decorate the tree, place gifts underneath it, and ring a bell – a signal to the children that Baby Jesus has visited their home, leaving behind a beautiful tree and delightful presents.

Similar to Santa Claus, Baby Jesus has a residence where children can send letters; however, unlike the Western Santa, Baby Jesus does not reside at the North Pole. His home is nestled in the mountains of Boží Dar. The Czech Republic has infused its own unique charm into the Santa Claus tradition, creating an experience that delights both children and adults. Consequently, despite the Western Santa gaining popularity in recent years, the Czechs proudly uphold the tradition of Baby Jesus.