More Than Just Santa Claus
Every year on the evening of December 5th, Czech children eagerly await the arrival of three mysterious figures: Mikuláš (St. Nicholas), an angel, and a devil. This tradition is known as Mikuláš and is one of the most charming pre-Christmas customs in the Czech Republic.
The Trio’s Visit
Dressed in a bishop’s robe and hat, Mikuláš carries a staff and visits homes, accompanied by an angel who rewards good children with candy and fruit, and a devil who playfully threatens to take the naughty ones away. Don’t worry—it’s all in good fun and rarely terrifying. Parents often arrange the visit to reinforce good behavior.
Modern Times, Same Fun
While the tradition dates back centuries, it's still alive and well in modern Czech culture. Whether it's a staged school event or an encounter on the streets of Prague, the Mikuláš trio continues to charm children and adults alike with its mix of folklore, fantasy, and a little fright.
It’s a delightful example of how Czechs blend the sacred with the playful, creating memories that last a lifetime.