Mayoral Reception - St Nicholas' Day (Mykolai)

On Friday 6 December at the Town Hall, we celebrated Святий Миколай (St Nicholas' Day) with our local Ukrainian community! This special day marks the start of the festive season in Ukraine, where children get early presents from St Nicholas - sometimes left in their shoes or under their pillows.

The tradition of St Nicholas goes back over a thousand years, way before Santa Claus became famous, and it's all about the spirit of giving. St Nicholas was known for his kindness and generosity, and today, Ukrainians honour his legacy by settling debts, performing charitable acts, and spreading joy.

Tasmania has a rich Ukrainian history, with about 340 displaced persons arriving after World War II, many working in local industries and contributing to the state's growth. Since 1954, the Association of Ukrainians in Tasmania has been a heartwarming hub for the community, ensuring traditions like St Nicholas' Day continue to thrive.

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