Sinterklaas & Christmas Offers

Origin: Santa Claus is based on various figures, including Saint Nicholas and the British Father Christmas. The modern image is largely influenced by American traditions and marketing.

Date: Christmas is celebrated on December 25th, but Santa Claus is especially associated with the evening of December 24th (Christmas Eve).

Appearance: Santa Claus wears a red suit with white fur trim, a wide belt, black boots, and a red hat. He is depicted with a round belly and a long white beard.

Helpers: Santa Claus is helped by elves and reindeer. His most famous reindeer is Rudolph.

Activities: Santa Claus delivers presents that are placed under the Christmas tree. Children often hang Christmas stockings by the fireplace, where Santa Claus places gifts.

Origin: Sinterklaas is based on the historical figure of Saint Nicholas, a bishop from Myra (in present-day Turkey), and is a centuries-old tradition in the Netherlands and Belgium. Historically, he is considered the patron saint of:

• Children: He is best known for his role in protecting and caring for children.

• Sailors: As a protector of sailors, many legends tell of Saint Nicholas calming storms and saving sailors from shipwrecks.

• Merchants: He is also recognized as a patron of merchants, especially those involved in trade.

• Archers and Thieves: Interestingly, he is associated with archers and is sometimes called upon for protection by those unjustly accused.

• The City of Amsterdam: As a figure of great historical significance, he is honored as the patron saint of Amsterdam.

Saint Nicholas is revered for his acts of kindness, generosity, and protection, making him a beloved figure in many cultures.

Date: Sinterklaas is celebrated on December 5th in the Netherlands and on December 6th in Belgium.

Appearance: Sinterklaas wears a red miter, a bishop’s mantle, and carries a golden staff. He is often depicted with a long white beard and rides a white horse named Amerigo or Ozosnel (NL) or Slecht Weer Vandaag (B).

Helpers: Sinterklaas is assisted by Zwarte Piet, who help distribute gifts and sweets to children.

Activities: Children place their shoes out, sing songs, and receive small gifts and sweets in the days leading up to December 5th. On the evening of December 5th, gifts are often exchanged during ‘Sinterklaasavond’ or ‘Pakjesavond’.