Nikolaus fun in the inland port: Hundreds of visitors celebrate festive tradition!

Nikolaus fun in the inland port: Hundreds of visitors celebrate festive tradition!

Harburg, Deutschland - On December 8, 2024, the Harburger inland port experienced a festive spectacle when Nicholas put on a ship, accompanied by an angel and happy gnomes. This beautiful Advent tradition attracted numerous visitors, because many children and their parents had gathered at Lotsekai to experience the big moment. The turning bridge on the Kanalplatz opened on time at 3 p.m., and the ship "red -throat", escorted by a boat from the water protection police, appeared to resonate the "floating Nikolausmarkt", organized by the Harburg museum port. Mathias Krämer played Nicholas while Arne Tingel Theophils embodied the angel. On board they had a huge sack full of small gifts that were unloaded in a special way instead of a crane as usual, but through the rigging of the ship "Jonathan".

a maritime tradition

Nikolaus has a deeply rooted connection to seafaring, which is even older than many Christmas customs itself. He is considered the patron saint of seafarers and is loved for helping sailors in need. This tradition goes back to the 3rd and 4th centuries when Nicholas appeared during a Council in Nicea a ship that had come in distress and saved it. These legendary acts have led to his veneration spread from the Mediterranean to the port cities of the North Sea and beyond, as Sea Help . Dutch culture particularly recognizes Nikolaus, where it is known as a sintered claas and every year with a ship from Spain is at anchor to inspire the population.

Overall, the event in Harburg was celebrated as a great success, with numerous radiant faces that left the matt winter light on the faces. The organizers are still unsure whether the impressive performance will take place next year on two days, but the anticipation for a return of Santa Claus in the inland port can already be felt. This year the organizers once again proved that they can create an unforgettable experience with creative ideas and a deep connection to maritime traditions that remains in the memory.