Sinterklaas is coming soon! Sinterklaas was a Spanish bishop who saved three children centuries ago, and was made a saint for his actions. The name Sinterklaas comes from Sint Niklaas, which is a variation of Sint Nikolaas (Saint Nicholas). On the evening of December 5th, all the children sing Sinterklaas songs, and put their shoe by the fireplace. In it, they put a letter or drawing for Sinterklaas, along with some carrots for his horse “witte schimmel”. During the night Sinterklaas and his helper “Zwarte Piet” ride over the rooftops, bringing gifts for the children who have been good. They enter the houses through the chimney, similar to the American Santa Claus. Sinterklaas and Santa Claus look alike as well.
Sinterklaas is very old, with a long white beard, a red gown, and a long staff. Instead of elves, Sinterklaas’ helpers are black servants dressed in medieval clothing. The Zwarte Piet appearance is controversial and was a huge shock for me when I first saw them. They are men and women that have painted their faces black, and put bright red lipstick on their lips. It would be completely unacceptable in America. When the children wake up in the morning, they will find candy and other small presents in their shoe. I’m excited to get to experience this tradition this year, because I’ve never heard about it before. It reminds me of Santa Claus, but to a smaller degree. Just another Belgian tradition!
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