Traditionally and during the night of the first weekend of December, Saint Nicholas travels on his donkey and goes to each child's home. His mission is to reward all the children who have been good by bringing them confectionery and sometimes even small gifts. He is accompanied by the ugly Father Fouettard, a dark and unattractive character whose mission is to reprimand the rogues who were not good during the year.
Children's habits
Usually, on Saturday night during the first weekend of December, children put their little shoes in front of the fireplace or front door of their home before going to bed. Saint Nicholas places sweets and small gifts there, without forgetting to recover a carrot or a sugar cube for his faithful donkey.
The next day, the children discover their presents. The most traditional treats are gingerbreads or chocolates moulded in the shape of Saint Nicholas or his donkey. The children also eat little brioches shaped like men, made only during this holiday season. Toys have replaced the traditional orange and it is not uncommon that in some families in the Vosges, Saint Nicolas replaces Santa for the distribution of gifts.
As is customary, Father Fouettard distributes rods made from wicker or brooms which are intended to whip disobedient children. However, the tradition tends to disappear, although the hateful character is always present in the parade and visits to schools!
