Exploring Tradition: Teaching St. Nicholas Day in ESL Classes

St. Nicholas Day, celebrated in various cultures around the world, presents a wonderful opportunity for ESL teachers to introduce their students to diverse traditions and customs while engaging in language learning. This festive day, honoring St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, invites an exploration of cultural practices, folklore, and joyful traditions.

Understanding St. Nicholas Day

St. Nicholas Day, observed on December 6th in many countries, commemorates the generosity and kindness of St. Nicholas, known for his acts of charity and gift-giving.

Language Skills and Activities

Vocabulary Enrichment:

Introduce vocabulary associated with St. Nicholas Day, such as gifts, generosity, stockings, treats, tradition, and folklore. Engage students in word association games, flashcards, or brainstorming sessions.

Reading and Comprehension:

Select stories or articles about St. Nicholas, his legendary acts of kindness, or how the day is celebrated in different cultures. Encourage reading sessions followed by discussions, comprehension exercises, or summarizing activities.

Writing Tasks:

Invite students to write letters to St. Nicholas, expressing their wishes or sharing acts of kindness they've experienced or performed. This exercise encourages language practice and creative expression.

Cultural Insights

Legends and Traditions:

Explore the various legends and customs associated with St. Nicholas Day across different countries. Students can research and present traditions like leaving shoes out for gifts, parades, or special meals.

Comparative Studies:

Compare and contrast St. Nicholas Day with other festive holidays celebrated in students' native countries. Encourage discussions about similarities, differences, and the significance of gift-giving customs.

Interactive Activities

Shoe Decorating:

Organize a shoe-decorating activity where students can design and decorate paper cut-outs or shoe-shaped templates. This allows for artistic expression while incorporating cultural symbolism.

Role-Playing:

Encourage role-playing activities where students enact scenes related to St. Nicholas Day traditions, such as gift-giving, sharing treats, or performing acts of kindness. This interactive exercise fosters language practice and cultural understanding.

Reflective Discussions

Kindness and Generosity:

Initiate discussions on the importance of kindness and giving. Encourage students to share personal experiences or stories about acts of generosity they've witnessed or performed.

Cultural Exchange:

Encourage students to discuss how they can incorporate elements of St. Nicholas Day into their own lives or communities, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and understanding.


Teaching St. Nicholas Day in ESL classes provides a window into diverse cultural traditions and values. By integrating language exercises, cultural insights, interactive activities, and reflective discussions, educators can facilitate a dynamic and engaging lesson that not only enhances language skills but also fosters appreciation for global customs and generosity.

As we celebrate St. Nicholas Day, let us inspire students to embrace the spirit of giving, kindness, and cultural exchange, nurturing a world where diverse traditions are cherished and celebrated.