Not an official holiday
Sinterklaas
01
Historical Context
Sinterklaas is celebrated on 5 December (gift-giving evening). The saint arrives in the Netherlands in mid-November.
Sinterklaas is based on the historical Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra in the fourth century. The Sinterklaas tradition has been an important part of Dutch culture since the Middle Ages. Sinterklaas arrives by steamboat from Spain.
On pakjesavond (5 December), gifts are exchanged, often accompanied by a poem or a surprise, a creatively wrapped gift. Children place their shoe by the fireplace with a carrot for the horse. Pepernoten, kruidnoten, and speculaas are traditional treats.
03
Frequently asked questions
Is 5 December a day off?
No, 5 December is not an official holiday. However, many shops and businesses close early on the evening of pakjesavond.
What is pakjesavond?
Pakjesavond is the evening of 5 December when families exchange gifts, often with a poem or a creatively wrapped surprise.
When does Sinterklaas arrive?
The national arrival of Sinterklaas takes place in mid-November. The exact date and city are announced each year by the Sinterklaasjournaal.