Next up in 12 Days of an Adventures with Sarah Christmas we’re staying in Europe, as Sarah’s partner Otto shares his memories of growing up in the Netherlands. Saint Nicholas is the primary focus of the holidays here, but the lore of Santa Claus (‘Sinterklaas’ in Dutch) is pretty different:
“Our version of Christmas actually starts on December 5th, which is when Sinterklaas gets on his white horse and drops presents at the homes of Dutch children everywhere. Aided by his helpers who are traditionally called ‘Zwarte Piet’ (translation: Black Pete), Sint Nicholas has a variety of ways to deliver what the Dutch call ‘kadootjes’ to children.
The ‘Pieten’ can simply ring the doorbell or go through the chimney, which makes their faces sooty and is one of the reasons they are called Black Pete. While the day of presents itself is the big day, the lead-up is just as exhilarating. Once Sinterklaas arrives on his steamboat from Spain in mid-November in a televised event, children experience a variety of surprises until December 5th.”
“The biggest excitement comes from putting your shoes by the fireplace (or radiator) on a nightly basis. Kids usually leave a carrot for Sint Nicholas’ horse in their shoe and sing a song after which, in return, they will find candy or a small present as a reward the next morning. Other exciting events can include a surprise visit by Black Pete to throw candy in schools or your living room, or meeting Sinterklaas himself in your class room.
But it’s not all moon shine and rose scent as the Dutch like to say when they want to moderate expectations. Super naughty children will get a little bag of salt in their shoe instead of a treat or be threatened to be put in Black Pete’s bag to be taken back with the Sint to Spain (which, as an adult now, seems like more of a reward — I love Spain).
The best thing about Sinterklaas beyond the presents are the seasonal treats it brings. Most children will receive a large chocolate letter (usually the first letter of their name) and a variety of candies that Black Pete will sprinkle around living rooms unexpectedly. The main candy is pepernoten (‘pepper nuts’), which are little round cookies, speculaas (a spiced shortcrust cookie), and marzipan. Fun right?!”
We’ve loved learning about the legends and mythology of Christmas in different countries so far and you can discover more about the traditions of Sinterklaas and Black Pete here.
If you’ve missed any of the other posts, catch up on all the previous days of our 12 Days of an Adventures with Sarah Christmas here.
