Sinterklaas

Sinterklaas in Amsterdam

The Grand Arrival

Sinterklaas has arrived in Amsterdam! He sailed along the Amstel River and through the canals. Many festive boats followed him. If you are not Dutch, you may wonder who he is. Sinterklaas is Saint Nicholas, the patron of children. Over time, he became a beloved Dutch figure with his own legend.

The Story

Every November, Sinterklaas comes by steamboat from Spain. He wears red, white, and gold bishop clothes. He carries a scepter and a large book. The book notes every child’s behavior. Good children receive treats and gifts. Naughty children are teased in stories about being taken away.

Sinterklaas never comes alone. He is joined by Zwarte Piet, his helpers. They wear colorful clothes, caps, and bright feathers. They carry bags of pepernoten, small round cookies, and throw them to the crowd. Children love it! Later, Sinterklaas rides his white horse, Amerigo, through the city streets.

The Celebration

Festivities last until 5 December. Children put out shoes with apples or carrots for Sinterklaas’s horse. In return, they hope for sweets or small gifts. The main celebration is on 5 December, the night before Saint Nicholas Day. Gifts are often accompanied by funny poems. Wrapping is special and creative.

Must-Try Treats

• Kruidnoten – small ginger cookies, sometimes chocolate-covered

• Chocolate letters – letters of milk or dark chocolate

• Amandelstaaf – pastry with almond paste

• Marzipan – shaped and colored sweets

• Speculaas – crunchy spiced cookies

• Hot chocolate – with whipped cream

Visiting Amsterdam during Sinterklaas is magical. The parades, music, lights, and treats create a festive fairytale atmosphere.

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This post is also available in: Dutch