Get ready for an epic party on November 17th as Sinterklaas sails into Amsterdam! This isn't your average shindig - we're talking about 300,000 to 400,000 people hitting the streets to welcome Sinterklaas. He arrives on his steamboat from Spain, docking at the Maritime Museum where the Mayor and kids' mayor give him a warm welcome. The city erupts in vibrant celebration, transforming into a festive playground. Streets, canals, squares - you name it, it's part of the celebration. If you're lucky enough to be in Amsterdam this November, don't even think about missing this.
Sinterklaas Parade in Amsterdam: Know the tradition
The origin
The history of Sinterklaas is rooted in the tales of St. Nicholas, a bishop who lived in the 4th century and was known for his generous deeds. The festivities begin in mid-November with Sinterklaas' arrival by steamboat, marking the start of the holiday season. The celebration culminates on Pakjesavond (Gift Evening), when families exchange presents, honoring the spirit of giving associated with St. Nicholas.
Sinterklaas arrival in Amsterdam
Sinterklaas, a beloved Dutch figure, arrives in the Netherlands each year from Spain, accompanied by his helpers, the 'Zwarte Piets'. This tradition, possibly rooted in the 16th and 17th-century Spanish rule over the Netherlands, culminates in a grand spectacle at Amsterdam's Maritime Museum. The event typically occurs on the first Saturday after November 11. Sinterklaas arrives by steamboat, greeted with enthusiasm by local brass bands, mayors, and cheering children. He then parades through the streets on his horse, Amerigo (recently called Ozosnel), distributing treats to the crowd. This celebration extends beyond Amsterdam, as the entire country watches the live television broadcast, sharing in the excitement of Sinterklaas' arrival.
Sinterklaas’ stay in Amsterdam
Sinterklaas' time in Amsterdam is marked with a plethora of exciting events and heart-warming traditions. Known as the Sinterklaasintocht, the grand parade is merely the beginning of his stay in the city. During his stay, Sinterklaas makes time to visit schools and hospitals. He cherishes the opportunity to meet and engage with children, spreading cheer and joy. As part of a long-standing tradition, children leave carrots in their shoes during the night for Sinterklaas' white horse. This act of kindness never goes unnoticed by Sinterklaas. In exchange, he fills their shoes with an assortment of sweet candies and delightful treats.
Pakjesavond - Sinterklaas birthday
Pakjesavond, which translates to 'the evening before 5th December’, is the last day of the Sinterklaas festival. This evening is similar to the tradition of placing presents under the Christmas tree; however, in this festive Dutch tradition, presents are cheerfully 'dropped off' by Sinterklaas or his helper, Piet. In a fun twist, neighbors are asked to knock on doors and toss pepernoten (a traditional Dutch cookie) into homes. On Pakjesavond, presents come with poems, a unique aspect of the Sinterklaas celebration. These poems can range from short verses to lengthy pieces, but they are always personal. Written with care, the poems reveal something about either the gift or the recipient. Finally, on December 6th, Sinterklaas mounts his trusted white horse, Amerigo, and sets off on his journey back to Spain.
Did you know?
The word 'cookie' is derived from the Dutch word 'koekje', which means small cake. During the Sinterklaas festival, there's a tradition of exchanging cookies known as 'Speculaas'.
Sinterklaas Parade Route for 2024
Sinterklaas's journey combines both water and land routes. He'll sail through the Berlage and Amstel bridges, arriving at the Maritime Museum at 11:35 AM. The land procession begins at 1:25 PM from the Stopera/Waterlooplein. Expect Rembrandtplein to be adorned with twinkling lights and festive banners. As the parade winds through Utrechtsestraat, shop windows will showcase Sinterklaas-themed displays. Frederiksplein might feature a temporary stage for performances, while Weteringscircuit could be decked with colorful flags and streamers. The route concludes at Leidseplein around 3:30 PM, where a grand finale awaits. Throughout these areas, expect to see traditional Dutch decorations like pepernoten garlands, miniature steamboats, and images of Sinterklaas and his horse Amerigo adorning buildings and lampposts.
