Saint Nicolas: getting into the festive spirit

In Alsace (and in Lorraine), more than anywhere else in France, the day of 6^th December is dedicated to celebrating Saint-Nicolas. A tradition which pays homage to a character who coincidentally shares the same name as the Father Christmas, although this famous gentleman in red was actually inspired by the lesser-known Saint Nicolas…

The legend of Saint Nicolas and Père Fouettard

Saint Nicolas of Myra is a biblical character, generally known for the miracles that he performed during his life. The most famous of these miracles provided the subject for a tale that older generations have passed down through bedtime stories told to children all across Alsace. Whilst on his travels, Saint Nicolas and his trusty donkey saved three children from a terrible fate at the hands of an evil butcher. Legend has it that he spotted a small salt barrel that held a terrible secret, and when Saint Nicolas pointed three fingers at the barrel, three children who had fallen victim to the awful butcher emerged, resurrected. The children were freed and headed home with only the memory of having gone for a very long nap. Ever since, Saint Nicolas has been seen as the protective patron saint of children, watching over them.

As for the butcher, he was tied the Saint Nicolas’ donkey for the rest of his days. Today, the villain in this tale is known as Père Fouettard (Father Whipper), tasked with punishing naughty children. Each year, he is seen alongside the protective saint during Saint Nicolas celebrations.

The Mannele: a symbol of Saint Nicolas

The two form a legendary pairing, eagerly awaited each year by children across the Moselle and Alsace regions. On the eve of Saint Nicolas, in order to win the favour of the saint and avoid punishment from Père Fouettard, before going to bed, children leave out a glass of milk and a carrot for the saint’s donkey. Good boys and girls may even be lucky enough to discover a sweet treat on their doorsteps…

This often takes the form of a little brioche figure, but here again, there are many tales and versions of the origins of this little baked treat. Some believe that it represents the Bishop of Myra himself, which led to it being named Saint Nicolas. However, in Alsace, it is said that this brioche represents the children saved by Saint Nicolas, which is why it has been named “Mannele” which literally translates as “little man”.

Putting smiles on faces of all ages with gingerbreads

In the Haut-Rhin region, Saint Nicolas is typically celebrated on the evening of 5^th December. This festive night is the perfect occasion for getting the family together and sharing Mannele, which are generally served alongside hot chocolate and mandarins. To add some variety to the treat, our Maison has created its very own take on Mannele made with spices and honey: the Gingerbread Man, hand-decorated with an almond paste design.

Saint Nicolas is also a great time to reward children for being good throughout the year by offering them a traditional Saint Nicolas Gingerbread. Delicately coated in a sugar icing and topped with an edible decoration, this gingerbread always goes down a treat. Beware to anyone who tears apart this depiction of the patron saint!

Chocolate-lovers will also know that the Saint Nicolas celebrations are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy their favourite sweet treat. Our Chocolate gingerbread selection combines the smooth sweetness of chocolate with the ever-popular, warming notes of gingerbread, creating the perfect treat to gift to loved ones or enjoy yourself (or both).

Related products

• Gingerbread Man
• Saint-Nicolas Gingerbread
• Gingerbread Assortment
• Gingerli - Chocolate baton