December 6th is Saint Nicholas Day.
Saint Nicholas was a real person who lived around the 4th century and became the origin of today’s Santa Claus.
In the Netherlands, Saint Nicholas is called Sinterklaas, and people celebrate Sinterklaas Eve on December 5th.
Sinterklaas is a tradition that doesn’t exist in my home country, Japan — but here in the Netherlands, Sinterklaas is even more popular than Santa Claus!
Sinterklaas is said to come from Spain in November.
During his stay, he visits schools and hospitals, and then returns to Spain on December 6th.
When Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands, every city holds a big parade to welcome him.
You can now receive a personalized video letter from Sinterklaas! It’s a perfect gift idea for children — a magical surprise they’ll never forget!
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Who is Sinterklaas?
In the Netherlands, it is said that Sinterklaas was a priest who came from Turkey and was very kind to children.
In the Netherlands, people say that Sinterklaas was a kind priest from Turkey who loved helping children.
He has long white hair and a beard, and wears a red cape over a traditional white robe.
Sinterklaas rides a white horse and is accompanied by his helper, Piet.
The big red book that Sinterklaas carries records children’s behavior throughout the year.
Children who behaved well receive gifts, while naughty ones are said to be put in a sack and taken back to Spain…
Sinterklaas Parade
More than a month before Santa Claus arrives, Sinterklaas sails from Spain to the Netherlands on a steamship.
A grand parade is held to celebrate his arrival.
Sinterklaas parades take place across the Netherlands on the first Saturday or Sunday after November 11th.
It’s one of the most exciting events of the Dutch winter season!
Parade in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s Sinterklaas parade begins in the morning along the canals.
The canal parade starts with cheerful music as children run along the banks, chasing the slowly passing boats — and their parents run after them.
It’s a heartwarming and joyful scene.
In the afternoon, the celebration continues with a grand street parade in the city center.
When the music starts, the streets fill with children’s laughter and excitement.
First comes Pieters, who entertains the crowd with playful pantomimes and jokes.
Carrying a large bag, Piet hands out small traditional cookies called Pepernoten, a must-eat treat on Sinterklaas Day.
When Sinterklaas finally appears, children shout his name — “Sinterklaas!”
Their favorite moment is when he walks by and gives them high fives.
Dozens of tiny hands stretch into the air, waiting for Sinterklaas to return the gesture.
The Sinterklaas parade feels like a festival for children — a day when kids dress up as Sinterklaas or Piet and run happily through the streets, full of excitement and wonder.
Receive a Video Message from Sinterklaas!
You can now receive a personalized video letter from Sinterklaas!
It’s a fun online service where you simply enter a name and message, and Sinterklaas will send a custom video message right to your inbox.
It’s a perfect gift idea for children — a magical surprise they’ll never forget!