Celebrate Kleeschen on December 6, Saint Nicholas Day

Saint Nicholas Day is an unmissable celebration for Luxembourgish children, marking the start of Advent celebrations.

Every year on December 6, elementary school students are excused from class and prepare to welcome "De Kleeschen" and his dreaded companion "Houseker."

Saint Nicholas traditions in Luxembourg

Slippers outside the door and feverish anticipation for Saint Nicholas Day

In Luxembourg, Saint Nicholas festivities begin at the end of November. Children place their slippers outside their bedroom doors in the hope of finding sweets and small gifts there on the morning of December 6. It is during the night of December 5 to 6 that "De Kleeschen" quietly visits homes to reward well-behaved children. Those who have been less obedient receive twigs left by "Houseker," a dark and impressive character who accompanies Saint Nicholas on his travels.

December 6, a special holiday for schoolchildren

December 6, Saint Nicholas Day, is eagerly awaited by children. Luxembourg primaryschools close their doors. It is a holiday for the youngest children, allowing them to fully enjoy this festive day with their families. For some children from other communities in Luxembourg, it is the Three Kings who bring gifts on Epiphany, January 6.

December 6, a holiday for schoolchildren

December 6 is a traditional holiday for children in Luxembourg's elementary schools. They do not have class on December 6. On this day, be prepared to keep your young children at home!

Visit from Kleeschen and Houseker to schools and nurseries

On the eve of Saint Nicholas Day, "De Kleeschen" and "Houseker" visit elementary schools and nurseries. The character of Saint Nicholas is played by an elderly man with a white beard and hair, dressed in a long red robe and a bishop's miter, holding an episcopal crozier. The school children gather for the occasion and prepare a show to welcome Saint Nicholas and his feared companion, the sinister Houseker, dressed all in black. Traditional songs, the most famous of which is "Leiwe Kleeschen," punctuate the show. Parents are often invited to attend. After the songs and festivities, "De Kleeschen" distributes sweets. Children usually receive a"Boxemännchen," a brioche in the shape of a little man typical of the period, as well as candy, chocolate, and sometimes small toys. The bogeyman "Houseker" accompanies the Kleeschen. Traditionally, Houseker leaves disobedient children twigs instead of candy.

Festive Saint Nicholas parades inLuxembourg's cities

In addition to the festivities in schools, Luxembourg's major cities organize Saint Nicholas parades. The most famous of these takes place in Luxembourg City on the Sunday before December 6. The parade starts at the central station and makes its way to the Upper Town via the Christmas markets. It is a festive and colorful event. Children follow Saint Nicholas' car while collecting candy thrown to the public. Thetowns of Esch-sur-Alzette, Dudelange, and other Luxembourg municipalities also take part in the festivities with their own parades.

The legend of Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra

The figure of Saint Nicholas has its origins in the story of Nicholas of Myra, bishop of the city of Myra (now Demre, in Turkey), who lived in the 3rd century. Known for his generosity towards children and the poor, he became one of the most celebrated religious figures in Europe. His classic representation, wearing a miter and holding a crozier, recalls his role as bishop. Today, Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of many professions and nations.

The legend of the three children saved by Saint Nicholas

The most famous legend associated with Saint Nicholas tells the story of three children who went to glean in the fields. Lost, they sought shelter at a butcher's house, who instead of helping them, killed and cut them up before placing them in a salting tub to make meat. Seven years later, Saint Nicholas passed by and asked the butcher for food. Discovered, the butcher confessed his crime. Saint Nicholas then resurrected the three children, thus becoming the protector of children and schoolchildren. Since then, Saint Nicholas, or "De Kleeschen" in Luxembourg, has rewarded good and obedient children. Père Fouettard, or "d'Houseker," symbolizes the butcher and punishes disobedient children.

December 6: a time for family fun and magic

In Luxembourg, Saint Nicholas Day is not just about giving gifts. It is also a festive period that kicks off the Christmas celebrations, particularly with the Christmas markets. Families gather there to share a warm and magical moment. Saint Nicholas Day symbolizes the entire pre-Christmas period. It is one of our favorite times of year in Luxembourg, when family and friends come together to enjoy the festivities.

Website: https://www.dekleeschen.lu/