In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) celebration is a tradition that dates back more than 700 years ago. You might think that Sinterklaas traditions are hard to explain to foreigners, but don’t worry, in this post, you’ll find its meaning, how the Dutch honor it, etc.
What Is The Dutch Sinterklaas Traditions Meaning – Explained To Foreigners
Sinterklaas, or Sint Nicolaas, is a Winter holiday in some European countries, including the Netherlands. Sinterklaa’s official date is on the 5th of December, one day before the death of Saint Nicholas.
One thing for sure is Sinterklaas has nothing to do with Christmas, including its meaning. And in fact, the Dutch honor both holidays with the same manner of joy and excitement.
Who Is Sinterklaas
Saint Nicholas is a Turkish bishop who lived in the fourth century. In the Netherlands, people depicted Saint Nicholas as the man who wore the miter. From the 11th century, since word of his miracles spread throughout Western Europe, he was elevated to the patron saint of almost all facets of society, especially children.
The legend of Saint Nicholas giving presents at night came from his generosity to three prostitutes who were given sacks of gold as dowries through the window during the night. As a result, he earned the title of prostitute’s patron saint.
When Did The Dutch First Celebrate Sinterklaas Traditions?
Date back to the Reformation, the government banned all Catholic-related activities, including Sinterklaas, the feast of Saint Nicholas. However, parishioners still celebrated it underground. Therefore, this holiday has a history of at least 700 years till now.
The official St Nicholas date is December 5. On this day, people throw an all-night-long party. And on December 6, children will take their present, which is secretly placed in their shoes.
The First Appearance Of Sinterklaas
According to the Meertens Institute, the first arrival of Sinterklaas happened in Zwolle in 1873. It was when a couple of wealthy farmers paid a prankster to suit up as Sinterklaas and distribute candies to poor children.
Sinterklaas makes an appearance on a Saturday, at least three weeks before December 5. It means that you have plenty of time to prepare your presents.
How The Dutch Celebrate Sinterklaas Traditions
As mentioned above, on December 5th, they usually throw a party with family or friends. After dinner, they gather together and play the present exchange game. People will prepare these presents beforehand with tags of the participant’s name on each box. It’s a meaningful activity since you’ll have to know each other well enough to prepare a suitable gift for them.
Children, in the days before December 5th, place their shoes in front of the fire and wait for Sinterklaas to fill them with presents. To get around the Sint, they will even leave a carrot for the bishop’s horse and their adorable wish list.
Food For Sinterklaas Traditions
Back then, a special treat for the Sinterklaas celebration is speculaas, spiced biscuits in the form of the saint.
These days, Sinterklaas goodies are more diverse, some of the most common are
- Taai taai, the chewy aniseed biscuits
- Pepernoten, the mini ginger biscuits
- Mulled wine, a tipple for a Sinterklaas banquet
Related Posts You Can read:
How St Patrick’s Day Became An Irish National Holiday
Top 10 Romantic Towns in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam
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