Sinterklaas

In the Netherlands in mid-November Dutch television broadcasts the official arrival of St Nicholas (Sinterklaas) and his helper Zwarte Piet. Coming by steamer from Spain, each year they dock in the harbor of a different city or village. Wearing traditional bishop's robes, Sinterklaas rides into town on a white horse to be greeted by the mayor. A motorcade and a brass band begin a great parade which leads Sinterklaas and his Piets through the town.

Nearly every city, town and village has its own Sinterklaas parade. Usually arriving by horseback, he has been known to opt for a more modern form of transport, travelling by boat, carriage, moped, or even helicopter.

In the following weeks before St Nicholas Day, December 6, Sinterklaas goes about the country to determine if the children have been well-behaved. He and his Zwarte Piet helpers visit children in schools, hospitals, department stores, and even at home.

During this time children sing Sinterklaas songs and put their shoes next to the window or door, or by the fireplace or heater, along with a nice drawing, a wish-list and carrot or hay, and maybe a saucer of water, for the horse.

If St Nicholas happens by while checking on their behavior, the next morning children may find chocolate coins or candy treats, or little gifts in their shoes. Everyone hopes for sweets (a reward for being good), not coal or a little bag of salt (the punishment for being naughty). In some families he may stop by every night, but usually just once or twice and not if the children have been naughty that day or forgot to sing their songs!

The Dutch celebrate Sinterklaas on December 5th, St Nicholas Eve, with festive family parties. Gifts and surprises are exchanged. In the Netherlands, adults as well as children join in the fun. The Dutch like an element of surprise so a small gift may be wrapped in a huge box, or it may be hidden and require following clues to discover where it is.

What lovely traditions to have...