On Saint Nicholas, nearly 800,000 Romanians celebrate their name day, and traditions include polishing shoes for gifts from Moș Nicolae.

On Saturday, Saint Nicholas Day, nearly 800,000 Romanians celebrate their name day, of which 296,088 are women and 503,312 are men. The most common name for men is Nicolae, held by 287,204 people, while for women, it is Nicoleta, held by 220,581. Saint Nicholas, considered the protector of children and the poor, was born into a wealthy family in Patara, Turkey, and gave up his wealth to help those in need. Popular traditions include children polishing their boots, waiting for gifts from Moș Nicolae, while the disobedient receive a switch. It is believed that winter begins on Saint Nicholas Day, and Moș Nicolae appears on a white horse. Additionally, Saint Nicholas Day is associated with charitable activities in Europe, having a profound significance in Christian culture.