Sinterklaas explained to foreigners

For most children in The Netherlands, the most important day during December is 5th December, when Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas) brings them their presents!

St. Nicholas' Day is on the 6th December, but in The Netherlands, the major celebrations are held on the 5th December, St.

Nicholas' Eve. The name Santa Claus comes from the name Sinterklaas.

It all starts on the first Saturday after 11th November when Sinterklaas arrives in a city or town in The Netherlands. Dutch tradition says that St. Nicholas lives in Madrid, Spain and every year he chooses a different harbour/city to arrive in The Netherlands, and then will visit lots of different towns and cities until the 5th December, so as many children as possible get a chance to see him.

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Sinterklass travels with his servants called 'Zwarte Pieten' ('Black Peters') or 'Sooty Pieten'/'Roetpieten' (Sooty or Chimney Peters). When Sinterklaas and the Piets come ashore from the steam boat, all of the local church bells ring in celebration.

Sinterklaas, dressed in his red robes, leads a procession through th

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