Past Event2024

A Beloved Annual Tradition: Celebrating St. Nick’s Day in NYC

December 7, 2024

little boy hugging santa on a couch

In collaboration with the Arany János Hungarian School and the Hungarian Scout Troops in New York, the Tulipán Foundation recently hosted its annual St. Nick’s Day celebration at the Hungarian House in New York City. This family-friendly event brought Hungarian holiday traditions to life, and attendees of all ages were invited to join the fun.

Festivities began with a series of holiday crafts, led by talented folk artists and teachers from the Nádudvar Folk Handicraft Vocational High School, Hungary’s leading institution for traditional craftsmanship education, which regularly receives support through grants from the Tulipán Foundation. These hands-on workshops will allowed guests to create their own holiday decorations inspired by our rich cultural heritage.

From weaving traditional straw ornaments and creating custom rag dolls, there was a flurry of activity for all to enjoy. Much of the excitement centered around our first-ever leather crafting activity, where guests eagerly tried their hand at using a traditional embossing tool to create personalized keychains and bracelets.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the day was a special visit from St. Nick himself. Children had the unique opportunity to meet the jolly saint in person, sit on his lap, and receive a traditional Mikulás csomag—a red bag brimming with sweet treats. Beyond this magical encounter, families savored classic Hungarian delicacies and reveled in the festive music, fully immersing themselves in the joy and spirit of the season.

The Tulipán Foundation is grateful to all the families, artists, and volunteers who made this event a success. We are proud to have brought together the Hungarian American community to celebrate St. Nick’s Day, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come, keeping Hungarian culture alive and flourishing through shared experiences and creativity.

GRANTEES IN ACTION

From emerging artists to community organizations, Tulipán grantees play a vital role in bringing Hungarian culture to life by showcasing their talents at our events.

  • Hungarian Parent-Teacher Association of New York, Education — New York

    Hungarian Parent-Teacher Association of New York

    Education

    2023

    The Hungarian Parent-Teacher Association of New York provides essential programs that help families connect and preserve their cultural heritage, creating a close-knit community where families can forge lasting connections and share cultural experiences.

    SEE THEIR WORK
  • Nádudvar Folk Handicrafts Vocational High School, Education — Hungary

    Nádudvar Folk Handicrafts Vocational High School

    Education

    2024,

    2023,

    2022,

    2021

    The Nádudvar Folk Handicrafts Vocational High School is Hungary’s leading institution for traditional craftsmanship education. By fostering a deep connection to cultural heritage, their programs empower the next generation to innovate while preserving traditional arts.

    SEE THEIR WORK