Czechoslovakia

In Czechoslovakia, the children's Christmas begins on December 5, the Eve of Saint Nicholas. On this night Saint Mikulase, or Nicholas, comes down from heaven on a golden cord. On his back he carries a basket of apples, nuts and candies. Saint Mikulase is generous with these gifts - especially when Anicka and Honza are kind and thoughtful and remember their prayers. He also fills their empty stockings with holiday treats.

The day before Christmas is a time of fasting until the first star appears. Then the family sits down to a traditional supper that includes roe soup, fish, a special braided bread, and a holiday cake, rich in almonds and raisins. Adults say that a child who does not eat until the evening meal will see the Golden Pig - but no one have seen him yet.

On Christmas Eve there is always a lighted tree with a Bethlehem, or miniature Nativity scene under the branches. In some places Jezisek, the little Jesus Christ, visits the children on His night and leaves them presents.

At twelve o'clock everyone attends the Midnight Mass, or the Angelic Mass, as it is often called. Christmas Day is a family holiday when people usually stay quietly at home.