Saint Nicholas celebrations in Saint Nicolas de port
Saint Nicholas is also known by the name "Saint Nicholas of Myre" or "Saint Nicholas of Bari." He was born in 270 AD in Patara, in Lycia (present-day Turkey) and his character is one of the origins of the modern Santa Claus. Saint Nicholas is also considered to be the most important saint for the people of the Lorraine Region of France. The main reason for this is the fact that the Basilica of Saint Nicholas-de-Port, in Lorraine, is where one of his relics is located.
Today, Saint Nicholas-de-Port is a pretty and peaceful town next to the city of Nancy. Every year at the beginning of December, celebrations of Saint Nicholas are organized in Saint Nicholas de Port. During the day, some children take part in the parade, where people can see Saint Nicholas in his beautiful chariot.
The celebration continues in the basilica with a procession filled with candles.