Who exactly is Sinterklaas? Well, as the legend goes, Saint Nicholas was a bishop sometime in the 4th century, in a town called Myra, now in present-day Turkey. He always helped those who needed him and he soon became the patron saint of sailors, merchants and especially small children.
Almost three weeks before December 5th (and even earlier if the shopkeepers would have their way) the old bishop, his white horse and his faithful helpers, the Zwarte Pieten (Black Petes), arrive in Holland by ship.
Children put out their shoes with a carrot or some hay tucked inside. Zwarte Piet then exchanges the hay for some chocolate coins, gifts or cookies called pepernoten.
The big gifts are traditionally given on the 5th of December. On that day, the Dutch head back home for pakjesavond (presents evening). Early in the evening, sweets are eaten, while those gathered take turns opening their gifts. These gifts are accompanied by funny poems that are written about the recipient, which are read aloud admidst great laughter.
Along with Holland, this feast is also celebrated in many other parts of Europe. Whether or not you believe in Sinterklaas, this is a time to join in the fun and make the most of the pepernoten, marzipan sweets and of course, the chocolate letters that come your way.
On Saturday the 17th of November at 1:00 pm Sinterklaas and his band of merry helpers will arrive by ship to the harbor in Enschede. This year he will be perched on the balcony of the Enschede City Hall and will be welcomed by the mayor at 2:15pm. For more information, visit the website: http://www.sintkleurtdestad.nl/
