The Netherlands are famous for their events which can be described as «only in Holland». King’s Day, the Keukenhof gardens. And, of course, the winter holiday of Sinterklaas. It’s celebrated annually on the 5th of December. But the whole festive story starts earlier in November.
So, who is Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas)?
He looks like Santa Claus or Father Christmas, but he’s a totally different person. According to the legend, he lives in Spain, and comes to the Netherlands to give presents and little treats to the children.
Sinterklaas doesn’t come alone. He arrives with his white horse Amerigo and a team of the Zwarte Pieten, who probably have been stuck in chimney for a while.
Arrival of Sinterklaas (intocht)
Every year Sinterklaas arrives to the Netherlands by boat. Thousand of people come to meet and great him. The day after Sinterklaas’ arrival traditional colourful parades are organized in many cities through the Netherlands.
Check it out:
- Bol. Black Friday deals on board games
- Amazon.nl Black Friday deals on toys
- Advent calendars 2024: for kids and adults
Sinterklaas 2024
In 2024 Sinterklaas arrives to the Netherlands on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The place of official Sinterklaas arrival (landelijke intocht) in 2024 is Vianen in the province of Utrecht.
Many municipalities will also organize local Sinterklaas parade events. For example, in Amsterdam Sinterklaas parade 2024 will take place on Sunday November 17, 2024.
- Check the Sinterklaas arrival routes (water route and land) route in Amsterdam here >>
A few weeks later, on December 5 the kids of the Netherlands will get their presents from Sinterklaas. Holiday season is just around the corner!
Sinterklaas presents ideas
Small presents:
Bigger presents:
- An addition to the Brio train collection
- Smartmax or Magna tiles magnetic toys
- Tickets to Ride board games
- LEGO Super Mario
- L.O.L. Surprise! dolls and accessories
Sinterklaas is on the way!
