Sinterklaas is a Dutch/Belgian Children's festival that happens every year on December 5th. Traditionally, in mid-November, two weeks before his celebrated Feast Day, Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands by boat from his home in Spain. Coming with his white horse (Amerigo) he arrives in the Netherlands with his helpers, the Pieten (Peter), to signify the start of the holiday season. This Sinterklaas tradition is broadcasted live on television. Each year Sinterklaas arrives in a different city. During the two weeks before his birthday, Sinterklaas rides across rooftops at night on his white horse, listening through chimneys for good children and leaving them treats and sweets in their shoes. The build-up is to the eve before his Feast Day (Sinterklaasavond) on 5 December, when Sinterklaas delivers gifts to good children and coal to the naughty. On Sinterklaasavond, children anxiously wait for Sinterklaas to knock on their door. Although Sint usually flies by the time they answer, a sack full of gifts awaits them on their doorstep. Following Sinterklaas‘ visit, each member of the family takes turns handing out presents and unwrapping them. Names are printed on each gift, and almost every present is accompanied by a humorous poem about the gift’s recipient, sometimes teasing them about their good and bad habits. 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.
