A long time ago, a bishop named Nicholas lived in what is now the country of Turkey. No one knows much about him. But there are stories that he often helped children who were in need.

Many years after his death, Nicholas was made a saint. In time, he became the patron saint of children. Today, the date of his death, December 6, is an important date in some countries in Europe. On the night before, children put out their shoes and hang up their stockings. Early next morning, they rush to see what gifts Saint Nicholas left them.


According to the legend, Saint Nicholas visits towns and cities, leads parades, talks to children, and often hands out small gifts. He is dressed as a bishop, wearing a red or white robe and a tall, pointed hat.

Saint Nicholas always has a helper. In the Netherlands, this helper is called Black Peter. In Germany, he's Knecht Ruprecht. In parts of France, he's Pere Fouettard. And in Luxenbourg, he's known as Hoesecker. Of course, all the children love Saint Nicholas. But they're quite afraid of his helper. For it is the helper who keeps track of who was good and who was naughty.

Dutch settlers in America continued to celebrate this feast day. Their name for Saint Nicholas was Sinterklaas. And in English, this became Santa Claus.

Santa Claus keeps a list of good girls and boys. All year long he checks, rechecks and checks it again to be sure he knows who's been naughty and who's been nice.

To find out whether or not you're on Santa's Good List you can check Santa's database that he keeps at the Northpole. Scan the list of names and find out where you are on the list:

Your Name:
Santa Claus says:

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