St. Nicholas miracle in Altötting: 73 holy men bring joy!

St. Nicholas miracle in Altötting: 73 holy men bring joy!

Last Saturday, December 20, 2025, the 14th St. Nicholas Pilgrimage took place in Altötting. Santa Clauses from various regions, including Lower Bavaria, Upper Bavaria, Franconia as well as from Salzburg and Styria, took part in this festive occasion. It is particularly pleasing that two “saints” from the Dingolfing-Landau district were also there: Tobias Hammerschmid from the KLJB Oberhausen and Helmut Rosenfeld from the Kolping Family Dingolfing, both of whom celebrated in Altötting for the third time, having already been there in 2023 and 2024. This tradition has developed into a real highlight of the Advent season.

At 2 p.m., 73 Santa Clauses solemnly entered the Basilica of St. Anna. Regensburg Auxiliary Bishop Dr. Josef Graf celebrated the Pontifical Mass and impressively recalled the life and work of Saint Nicholas in his sermon. The Santa Clauses then visited the Christmas market on Kapellplatz to delight the children with gifts. A special highlight was the visit of the Mother of Grace to the Chapel of Grace, which perfectly rounded off the celebratory setting of this pilgrimage.

Invitation and course of the pilgrimage

The St. Nicholas pilgrimage was organized by the diocesan committee, which gave those interested the opportunity to become active as St. Nicholas, be it in kindergartens, clubs or in their own families. The participants were able to change from 12:30 p.m. in the Culture + Congress Forum Altötting before heading to the basilica at 1:40 p.m. A group photo took place there before the service began at 2 p.m.

The next steps in the festive sequence included a procession to the Chapel of Mercy, where Santa Clauses were warmly welcomed and chocolate Santa Clauses were distributed. A warm-up break in the St. Antonius bookstore with a little schnapps rounded off this pleasant afternoon. This event not only promotes exchange among participants, but also community within regional traditions.

Santa Claus in culture

But what makes Santa Claus so special? Saint Nicholas, who appears in the traditional bishop's robe, with a miter and a bishop's staff, is known in many families, daycare centers and schools as a bringer of gifts. On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, children put their cleaned boots in front of the door, which St. Nicholas then fills with all kinds of sweets, pastries and small gifts at night. He is often accompanied by a dark fellow who keeps an eye on the children's behavior - known in some regions as Knecht Ruprecht, or also called Krampus.

The pilgrimage is not only a religious event, but also a cultural celebration that remains alive with its colorful tradition and the many legends surrounding Saint Nicholas. Families maintain their own customs, which include reading stories, baking special recipes and making Santa Claus decorations. These traditions strengthen the sense of community and make Advent special.

Overall, it can be said that the St. Nicholas pilgrimage is a wonderful example of living tradition that connects the community and brings young and old together in this contemplative time of year. The Santa Clauses from Dingolfing-Landau can now look forward to the next pilgrimage next year.