Jump into the festive spirit on the 19th of November, as Sinterklaas sails from Spain to the heart of Amsterdam! Experience this cultural phenomenon, an event that thrills the city to its very core. This is no ordinary event; it’s a time when the city comes alive with the joy, color, and festivities of welcoming Sinterklaas, who arrives with pomp and fanfare. The city's streets, canals and squares become a stage for festive performances and the cheering crowd. If you are traveling to Amsterdam in November, don't miss this spectacular event.
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. Each year on the 5th of December, the Dutch celebrate Sinterklaas' birthday, venerating his spirit of giving and kindness. However, the grand arrival of Sinterklaas, traditionally by steamboat, takes place earlier, typically on the second or third Saturday of November.
Sinterklaas arrival in Amsterdam
Sinterklaas, accompanied by his band of helpers called the ‘Zwarte Piets’, sets sail from Spain, leading to a magnificent spectacle as they arrive at Amsterdam's Maritime Museum. The sight of Sinterklaas and his entourage entering the city's canal system is a heartwarming display, made even more delightful with live music setting the tone. The atmosphere is absolutely jubilant, with locals and tourists alike joining in the celebration. Close to 400,000 enthusiastic spectators gather in the city to witness his majestic arrival and watch the grand parade as it winds through the streets. The excitement is palpable, not just in Amsterdam, but throughout the Netherlands, as the rest of the country tunes in to the live television broadcast of the event.
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 2023
The journey of Sinterklaas in 2023 begins on a steamboat, sailing from the direction of Spaklerweg across the Amstel River and into the heart of the city. He will then transfer to the Port of Amsterdam at the Hermitage for a picturesque canal cruise. This cruise will pass the Herengracht, Leidsegracht, Prinsengracht, before making a return journey down the Amstel towards the Stopera. Here, Sinterklaas is greeted by Mayor Halsema and the children’s mayor which marks the beginning of this tradition.
Following a halt at the Stopera, Sinterklaas continues his journey, this time on horseback, with a procession of musicians, floats, and his loyal Pieten. The route commences at Waterlooplein and ends at Leidseplein, taking Sinterklaas through some of Amsterdam's most vibrant and historic sites of Rembrandtplein, Utrechtsestraat, Frederiksplein and Weteringcircuit.
