Sinterklaas is celebrated throughout the Netherlands today, with many Dutch schools finishing early.
Though he arrived mid-November on a steamboat from Spain, December 5 is his birthday and the day which Dutch children usually receive presents.
Many Dutch children eagerly follow the “Sinterklaas Journal” each evening, following the adventures of the Saint.
Wikipedia gives a run down on the celebration here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinterklaas
An Australian now living in the Netherlands, Kristen in Clogland gives a great comparison on her blog between Sinterklaas and Santa Claus and why her children celebrate both here: https://kristeninclogland.wordpress.com/2016/02/07/sinterklaas-santa-claus-and-why-our-children-celebrate-both/
Traditionally, Dutch families will not put up a Christmas tree until after the Sinterklaas Celebrations.
Do you celebrate Sinterklaas/Santa Claus, or both? Come and let us know over on our Facebook page
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