Sinterklaas - Dutch

Hello! I am a special holiday celebrated in the country of the Netherlands, and my name is Sinterklaas. People look forward to me every year in the weeks leading up to December 5th. I am named in honor of a very kind person who lived long ago. His name was Saint Nicholas, and stories say he was well-known for his generosity and for secretly giving gifts to people who needed help. My celebration keeps the memory of his kindness alive.

My season of fun begins in the middle of November. This is when the character of Sinterklaas makes his official arrival in the Netherlands, which is a very exciting event. People say he travels all the way from his home in Spain. He doesn't fly in a sleigh; instead, he sails across the water on a big steamboat called Pakjesboot 12. When the boat arrives at the port, a large crowd of people is always there to greet him. He is joined by his trusty white horse, Amerigo, and his cheerful helpers, who are known as the Pieten. They help him with his work of delivering treats and presents.

After the big arrival, there are many special traditions in the days that follow. In the evenings before my main celebration, children get to do something they look forward to all year. Before going to sleep, they carefully place one of their shoes near the fireplace or by a window. It’s a tradition for them to leave a little something for Sinterklaas's horse, too. They might put a carrot, some hay, or a bowl of water next to their shoe as a snack for Amerigo. They go to bed hoping that when they wake up, they will find a small treat or gift left in their shoe in the morning.

My most important celebration happens on the evening of December 5th. This special night is called Pakjesavond, which means 'Presents' Eve' in English. It is a cozy and happy time for families to gather together. They often sing special Sinterklaas songs and spend time with one another. The most exciting part of the evening is exchanging gifts. Sometimes, families will hear a loud knock on their door. When they open it, they might find a big bag of presents left on their doorstep! The gifts were brought by Sinterklaas and his helpers, who are said to get soot on their faces from climbing down chimneys to deliver the surprises.

Of course, no holiday is complete without special foods, and I have many delicious ones. During my celebration, people enjoy all kinds of sweet treats. One of the most popular snacks are small, spiced cookies. Depending on the recipe, they are called either pepernoten or kruidnoten. People also eat marzipan, which is a sweet almond paste that can be molded into fun shapes like little fruits or animals. Another favorite treat is a large chocolate letter. Children and adults often receive a chocolate letter that is the first initial of their own name. These traditions make me a sweet and memorable time for many people in the Netherlands.