St. Nick’s Shopping Day a historic tradition at Fort Erie church

St. Nick’s Day is a tradition that has been celebrated for centuries in various parts of the world.

And it’s also the theme of an event that has taken place in Fort Erie for at least 50 years.

The annual St. Nick’s Shopping Day at St. Paul’s Anglican Church is set for Saturday, an opportunity for children to purchase gifts for their loved ones.

A team of volunteers assist kids with their list and help them browse a room full of presents to buy for their families, before they are neatly wrapped, brought home, and handed out at Christmas.

“They’re shopping for their parents, their brother, their sister, their animals,” said Barb Steele, a lead organizer who has been involved with the event for 40 years.

Last year, 126 kids came through to buy gifts, which organizers attempt to keep at a value of no higher than five dollars.

“It’s really great for these kids. Some of them are professional shoppers,” said Steele, noting how the event gives them a sense of maturity and independence.

The day is geared to kids aged three to 12 and there is food and refreshments on site, as well as other items parents can purchase.

Steele added that nobody is left out.

“If the kids don’t have money, we make sure they get gifts,” she said.

The gifts are donated by the church’s “very generous” congregation, and money raised goes back into the community to assist needy families, said Steele.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The group of volunteers who organize the celebration at the 100-year-old church will shift gears in the new year to prepare for a Victorian tea gathering on Mother’s Day weekend.

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