Lawrence’s Tradition: Sinterklaas and Dutch December Magic

Sinterklaas and the Magic of 5 December

For Lawrence, the most meaningful Dutch tradition arrives not on Christmas, but on 5 December - Sinterklaasavond. In the Netherlands, this evening is filled with excitement as Sinterklaas, the dignified bishop in red robes, is said to arrive from Spain on a white horse. In the weeks leading up to the day, children place their shoes by the fireplace with a carrot or hay for the horse, hoping to find a small gift or sweet in return. Daily broadcasts of the Sinterklaasjournaal add playful storylines and humour, building anticipation across the country.

Pakjesavond: Presents, Poems, and Togetherness

On Sinterklaasavond, families gather to exchange gifts, often wrapped in creative or humorous ways and paired with light-hearted poems that gently tease the recipient. These “surprises” make the evening deeply personal and full of laughter. Although it shares some roots with Christmas traditions, Sinterklaas has its own folklore and set of customs unique to Dutch culture. For Lawrence, it remains one of the warmest, most cherished celebrations of the year - a joyful blend of storytelling, imagination, and family togetherness.