The month of December is always a festive season everywhere in the world. In Slovakia, there is no place that is shy of celebrating Christmas and the season of giving. Before coming here, I was eager to learn how the Slovaks celebrate this meaningful time. The spirit continues to be alive through traditions of markets, nativities, wreaths and even live carp.
The Christmas season in Slovakia has its own special traditions that are a little different from the Christmas traditions in the United States. One of the biggest differences is how everyone celebrates Advent. Advent is the countdown to Christmas. Towns set up Advent wreaths in their centers and light a candle each Sunday. They even set up markets in the square where people can purchase food, drinks and gifts! On the weekends, the markets usually have performances to entertain the visitors. It is a fun celebration that people look forward to every Christmas season!
On December 6th, Slovaks celebrate St. Mikuláš Day. You may have heard of Saint Nicholas, but you may not know of the tradition of St. Nick’s Day in America. In Slovakia, everyone celebrates this day by leaving shoes outside the door or on the windowsill. Overnight, St. Mikuláš visits the home and places gifts inside the shoes. Be aware that if you get a potato or onion in your shoes, then you may have been naughty.
