On Sunday, December 7, parents with children, volunteers, and friends of the Czech community gathered at St. James Church in Glebe to celebrate St. Nicholas Day – a folk tradition that our compatriots have maintained since the Middle Ages, welcoming the arrival of the holidays of peace, tranquility, and joyful gatherings each year.

At the beginning of this special afternoon, everyone listened to speeches by Czech Ambassador M. Tlapa, outgoing CSSK President D. Beneš, new Consul T. Hlavan, and Czech School Director M. Havel. This was followed by a performance of piano pieces by students of the Czech School Ottawa, recitations of rhymes, and carol singing, which everyone in the hall ended up singing along with the little expatriates, accompanied by experienced teacher R. Dan.

The festive atmosphere was enhanced by musical accompaniment from the group led by M. Králík and music master G. D. Hegedus.

All participants had the opportunity to purchase Christmas cookies and wreaths handmade by members of the Czech community. The children enthusiastically floated candle-lit eggshells on the water, and the lucky winners took home valuable gifts from the raffle.

However, the biggest surprise for the children was a visit from St. Nicholas, the devil, and an angel in traditional costumes, who brought the children stockings full of treats and little surprises.

There was also plenty of refreshments, and everyone left with a smile on their face and joy in their heart from a pleasant, friendly evening.