What is the story of Sinterklaas?
Sinterklaas is based on the historical figure of Saint Nicholas (270–343), a Greek bishop of Myra in present-day Turkey. Sinterklaas carries a big, red book which records whether each child has been good or naughty in the past year.
How do the Dutch celebrate Sinterklaas?
Families celebrate Sinterklaas’ Feast by singing songs and indulging in a feast of their own, which consists mainly of sweets like marzipan, chocolate initials, pepernoten (ginger biscuits) and hot chocolate with whipped cream. On Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December, Sint departs from the Netherlands.
How is Sinterklaas different from Santa Claus?
Differences in delivery of gifts Santa places his around the Christmas tree and fills the stockings hanging above the fireplace. Sinterklaas exclusively places the gifts in front of the fireplace, and, instead of stockings, he fills shoes (which the children placed before the fireplace the night before) with candy.
Is Sinterklaas religious?
The Dutch celebrate the Feast of Sinterklaas honoring the life of St. Nicholas, and although St. The result is that Sinterklaas is celebrated by Dutch people of all ages and beliefs, without any real religious connotations.
What should I buy for Sinterklaas?
5 Amsterdam gifts for Sinterklaas
- Wooden bicycle bell. Accessorise their favourite mode of transport with a bicycle bell guaranteed to stand out – even in the city of cycles.
- ARTIS Jaguar Backpack.
- KLM Stewardess doll.
- Tony Chocolonely Letter Chocolate Bar.
- Foooty.
What is De Staf van Sinterklaas?
De staf van Sinterklaas is “The staff of Santa” in dutch.
What do you eat with Sinterklaas?
The festive food and drink during Sinterklaas
- Kruidnoten. Kruidnoten — one of the treats that Sinterklaas often throws to children are these little biscuit-like treats.
- Speculaas cookies.
- Pepernoten.
- Chocolate letters.
- Sinterklaas Schuimpjes.
- Bischopswijn.
- Banketstaaf.
- Jan Hagel Cookies.
Where is Sinterklaas now?
So, who is Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas)? According to the legend, he lives in Spain, and comes to the Netherlands to give presents and little treats to the children.
What is kingsday in the Netherlands?
King’s Day is when the Dutch celebrate the birthday of their king. King Willem Alexander was born on 27 April and so there are many parties, flea markets and, of course, the king himself visits one or several cities with his family.
What night does Sinterklaas come?
Sinterklaas always arrives on a Saturday at least three weeks before December 5 so you have lots of time to spend money on presents. Once Sinterklaas is actually in the country, the fun can begin. Sinterklaasavond, the night of December 5th, is usually celebrated with family and/or friends.
What is a typical Dutch Christmas dinner?
Dutch Christmas dinners usually consist of venison, goose, hare, or turkey with plenty of vegetables and Kerstbrood (Christmas bread). The Dutch also celebrate by eating gourmetten, a hot plate on which diners place a set of mini pans containing their choice of meat or vegetables.
What is a traditional German Christmas dinner?
The traditional Christmas meal features duck, goose, rabbit or a roast. This main dish is accompanied by German delicacies such as apple and sausage stuffing, red cabbage and potato dumplings. Dessert typically includes Christmas Stollen, considered one of the best Christmas pastries in the world!
Where does Sinterklaas take place in the Netherlands?
The festivities traditionally begin each year in mid-November (the first Saturday after 11 November), when Sinterklaas “arrives” by a steamboat at a designated seaside town, supposedly from Spain. In the Netherlands this takes place in a different port each year, whereas in Belgium it always takes place in the city of Antwerp.
Is the Sinterklaas parade being held this year?
Update: The Sinterklaas parade will be canceled in many cities this year. The national arrival of Sinterklaas will be held but its location will be kept a secret as spectators are not allowed due to COVID-19 measures.
Where to get Sinterklaas candy in the Netherlands?
Experience the arrival of Sinterklaas everywhere in the Netherlands. Enjoy Sinterklaas candy, which is available from supermarkets throughout Holland. Experience the great atmosphere associated with Sinterklaas. Update: The Sinterklaas parade will be canceled in many cities this year.
What are some of the traditions of Sinterklaas?
Another Sinterklaas tradition is the so-called surprise – or extremely elaborately wrapped up and disguised present. This will plunge households into a frenzy of creativity and closed doors.