Nikulden is the name day for everyone with the name Nicholas, Nicola, Nicolai, Nick, Niki, Nikolina, Nikoletta, Neno, Nenko, Nina and other names with a similar stem. We celebrate this saint on 6th December each year in Bulgaria and is a bright and light celebration to counter the dark days of winter approaching.

Nikulden is also “The Day of St Nikolas” We believe that St Nikolas helped all the sailors and fishermen. He was born during the third century in Patara, Turkey. He was the master of the sea. His power even stretched over fish and water demons – as well as the sea winds. People believe that St Nikolas could control storms and hurricanes. The autumn fishing season ends on 6th December. To follow tradition, fisherman offer their day’s catch to the saint. Fishermen eat the first fish caught right on the shore, before bringing the rest home.

According to the folk-Christian myths, St Nikolas makes the winds rage and cease. He controls the winds and their speed. Saint Nikolas can walk on the seas and whenever there is a ship in trouble and he can save it. Saint Nikolas is also the protector of sailors and fishermen. He protects, not only of those who bear his name, but also their families too.

In Bulgaria, on 6th December we eat a fish dish called “ribnik”. This is a carp in dough. We stuff it with a delicious combination of herbs and nuts. People believe that the Carp was a special fish and that St Nikolas chose the carp to be his special servant. There is a popular folk tale that says St Nikolas was caught in a storm in the open sea. A huge wave broke the bottom of his boat. So, he pulled a large carp out of the sea and the carp helped plug the hole in the boat. Since then, the carp is a sacrificial fish and we eat it on this special day.

If you know someone with the name of Nick or Nicky you can say “Честит имен ден!” Chestit Imen Den or Happy Name Day! There are more than 200,000 Bulgarians celebrating their name day on this date. Perhaps you know one or two?

If you enjoyed learning a bit more about our celebrations and traditions see Happy Grandmother March and other posts #Culture