Sinterklaas, also recognized as Sint Nicolaas originates from Myra, Turkey. Acknowledged as the patron saint of children, Sinterklaas performed numerous kind acts and miracles during his lifetime. Being a church leader, he also distributed money by placing some of it at the doors of needy families in the town where he served. Nicholas passed away on December 6 and was laid to rest in his cathedral in the city of Myra, Turkey. Later, his remains were taken and relocated to the Italian city of Bari.

In Dutch-speaking countries like Belgium and the Netherlands, he is depicted as an elderly man with white hair and a long beard riding a white horse. Carrying a large red book, Sinterklaas keeps records of children’s behaviour throughout the year. Parents in Belgium emphasize good behaviour to their children, as is noted in Sinterklaas’s large red book.

Celebration of the arrival of Sinterklaas

People also create an arrival celebration in mid-November when Sinterklaas visits from Spain. There’s a belief that Sinterklaas also resided in Spain, carrying out acts of kindness. Sinterklaas is thought to have arrived on a steamboat from Spain, accompanied by his companions. His companions are referred to as “piet“. Every city in Belgium celebrates the arrival of Sinterklaas and his companions. Upon arriving, Sinterklaas takes a moment to greet the children, receives a welcome from the city’s Mayor, and delivers a brief speech. Following his address, he and his companions proceed in a procession. During this highly anticipated moment, the announcement is made to reveal whether children have been considered naughty or nice.

Below are the pictures of the celebration of Sinterklaas’s arrival in Limburg, Belgium.

SinterKlaas tradition

Belgium and the Netherlands mark the Sinterklaas celebration on December 6th. As per the tradition, on the evening of December 5th, the majority of children in Belgium write their letters, requesting the desired gifts from Sint. Before bedtime, they set out a shoe with a carrot and a lump of sugar for Sint’s horse, a small treat for ‘Piet’ next to the Chimney.

The children believe that Piet will enter the house through the chimney, and place speculoos (a cinnamon biscuit), chocolate into the shoes and a present before sunrise. The carrot left out for Sinterklaas’s horse is expected to be taken away by Piet. People think Piet’s face turns black because of the soot in chimneys as he goes through them. That’s why he is also known as ‘Zwarte Piet’ or ‘Black Piet’.

Is SinterKlaas the same as Santa Claus?

Sinterklaas and Santa Claus share similarities but belong to distinct cultural customs. Sinterklaas is a prominent figure in Dutch folklore, observed in the Netherlands, Belgium, and other European nations. Celebrated on December 5th and 6th. Sinterklaas rides a horse, wears a cloak, and is tall and thin. Sinterklaas always carries a curved, golden Bishop’s staff (crossier).

On the other hand, Santa Claus, is a jolly man associated with Christmas in the United States and Canada, delivering presents on Christmas Eve 24th and 25th December. Santa Claus travels in a sleigh, wears a red and white suit with fur, and is short and sturdy.

The common traits they shared were their kindness, love for children and handing gifts during December.

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