Sinterklaas (not to be confused with Santa Claus -Kerstman in Dutch) is a tradition in the Netherlands.
Every year, families with young children celebrate Pakjesavond ("Gift Evening") on or in the weekend before December 5: a party full of presents, sweets and fun with the family. But who is Sinterklaas, and what makes this party so special?

Every year Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands around mid-November and he and his Pieten (his helpers) stay in the Netherlands until December 6th.

 If you have children, I recommend following the 'Sinterklaasjournaal' on TV 📺This program follows the journey of Sinterklaas and his helpers from Spain to the Netherlands aboard a steamboat (stoomboot), also called Pakjesboot 12, which is filled with presents 🎁 and after arriving in the Netherlands, you can see what they do during their time in the Netherlands, and all the “problems” they always have with the presents.

The Origins of Sinterklaas
Sinterklaas is based on Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity. Over the centuries, he evolved into the iconic figure with a red mitre, staff, and white beard. His modern appearance emerged in the 19th century and has since become a central part of Dutch culture.

Schoen zetten
After the arrival of Sinterklaas, children place their shoes by the fireplace or door while singing Sinterklaas-songs. They leave a carrot for ‘Ozosnel’ the horse of Sinterklaas in exchange for sweets or small gifts the next morning.
Usually kids are allowed to place their shoes once a week.

Pakjesavond
The highlight is Pakjesavond, when Sinterklaas leaves gifts for children, often accompanied by witty poems that reflect on the recipient’s quirks. Traditional treats like pepernoten, chocolate letters, and speculaas add to the festive spirit.
The presents are usually in a sack, and it’s placed in front of the (front)door or it’s hidden in the attic.
When you celebrate it in the morning, you say ‘Pakjesochtend’ and in the afternoon ‘Pakjesmiddag’.

Sinterklaas’s Helpers
Sinterklaas is assisted by his helpers, known as Pieten. Over the years, their portrayal has shifted; traditional Zwarte Pieten (Black Petes) have increasingly been replaced by Roetveegpieten ("Soot Smudge Petes"), a more contemporary and inclusive representation.

Sinterklaas is about community, creativity, and generosity. It’s a celebration that connects generations and brings joy to the dark days of December. And for children, it’s a magical experience!

When my son asked questions about Sinterklaas and the Pieten (how, when, what etc…) I always said “dat is de magie van Sinterklaas!”

That’s the magic of Sinterklaas!

Some words explained:
Het grote boek van Sinterklaas📕 - is a large, red book where Sinterklaas keeps track of everything about the children in the Netherlands.
Het verlanglijstje - is the wishlist, which is also recorded in the big red book of Sinterklaas.
De Hoofdpiet - is the Chief of all the Pieten, and it is his responsibility to look after het grote boek van Sinterklaas.
Pepernoten / kruidnoten – Both are traditional Dutch treats associated with Sinterklaas. The two are often mixed up in conversation. If you’re in a Dutch store and someone says "pepernoten," they’re almost always referring to kruidnoten!
Pepernoten: are irregularly shaped, soft, and chewy. They resemble small, rough chunks of bread or biscuits.
Kruidnoten: are small, hard, round biscuits that resemble tiny gingerbread cookies.