What is Sinterklaas?

Sinterklaas: The Dutch Holiday You’ll Wish You Knew About Sooner (Featuring Lots of Stroopwafels)

If you grew up in the United States, you probably associate December with Christmas lights, peppermint hot chocolate, letters to Santa, and jingling bells. But travel across the Atlantic, specifically to the Netherlands, and you’ll find another magical winter tradition that fills children with excitement and families with laughter long before Christmas arrives. It’s called Sinterklaas, and if you’ve never heard of it, get ready to discover your new favorite holiday. Especially if you enjoy caramel-filled treats!

Sinterklaas (pronounced SIN-ter-klahs) is a Dutch celebration held every year on December 5th, and while it shares a few surface similarities with Christmas, it is definitely its own tradition. Think of it as a blend of history, folklore, cozy winter gatherings, childhood wonder, and a whole lot of delicious snacks—including the beloved stroopwafel, which plays a surprisingly big role in the holiday season.

So let’s take a trip to the Netherlands (virtually, at least) and get to know the man, the myth, the holiday, and the very sweet treats that come with it.

Who Is Sinterklaas? (Hint: He’s Older Than Santa)

Sinterklaas is based on Saint Nicholas, a real historical figure from the 4th century known for helping children and the poor. Over centuries of storytelling, the Dutch transformed him into a tall, gentle, elderly bishop dressed in red robes and a mitre, riding a white horse and carrying a golden staff.

While Santa Claus arrives by flying sleigh, the Dutch version enters with a bit more flair: Sinterklaas travels from Spain by steamboat. Yes, Spain. Children eagerly watch his nationally televised arrival every November, waving flags, singing songs, and hoping to catch a glimpse of his iconic white horse.

Once he arrives, Sinterklaas is said to travel the rooftops at night, listening to children’s songs and leaving treats for well-behaved kids.

The Shoes, the Songs, and the Magic of Anticipation

Instead of hanging stockings by the fireplace, Dutch children place their shoes near the fire or heater. Inside the shoe, they’ll often leave:

A carrot for Sinterklaas’s horse,

A hand-drawn picture,

And occasionally a hopeful note.

In return, Sinterklaas might leave a small toy or a traditional Dutch treat. This isn’t just for the big day; in the weeks leading up to December 5th, children might find surprises several times.

And yes, this is where stroopwafels enter the story in an extremely delicious way.

Let’s Talk About Stroopwafels (Because They Deserve Their Own Section)

If you’ve never had a stroopwafel, prepare yourself emotionally. This treat is a Dutch icon: two thin, crisp waffle layers with a warm, gooey caramel syrup (“stroop”) sandwiched inside. They’re usually placed on top of a hot cup of coffee or tea to make the caramel perfectly melt.

While stroopwafels are enjoyed year-round in the Netherlands, during Sinterklaas season they become extra special. They show up in:

• Gift bags

• Shoe surprises

• Family gatherings

• Holiday markets

• Office celebrations

• Bakery windows

• And maybe even on your breakfast table

Children especially love discovering a stroopwafel tucked inside their shoe, often alongside other Sinterklaas goodies. It’s the perfect symbol of the holiday: warm, sweet, comforting, and wrapped in nostalgic joy.

You could say the stroopwafel is to Sinterklaas what the candy cane is to American Christmas—except softer, chewier, caramel-ier, and arguably far more addictive.

December 5th: Pakjesavond, the Biggest Night of All

The highlight of the Sinterklaas season is Pakjesavond (“Presents Evening”), celebrated on December 5th. Families gather for a warm, cozy night filled with stories, songs, and laughter. While Santa Claus places gifts under a tree, Sinterklaas often “knocks” on the door and leaves a sack of presents outside.

Gift-giving during Sinterklaas isn’t just about surprise—it’s creative. Many families write funny poems, lovingly roast each other, or wrap gifts in hilarious “surprise” packages. Imagine receiving a book hidden inside a giant papier-mâché banana or opening a box only to find a series of smaller boxes leading to the real gift. It’s thoughtful, silly, and playful all at once.

And of course, tables are filled with Dutch holiday treats: chocolate letters, marzipan figures, spiced cookies, hot drinks, and yes… plate after plate of stroopwafels.

Sinterklaas vs. Santa Claus: Cousins, Not Twins

It’s common for Americans to assume Sinterklaas is Santa Claus—but really, Sinterklaas is more like Santa’s wise older cousin. In fact, the word “Santa Claus” is actually derived from “Sinterklaas,” brought to America by Dutch settlers in the 1600s. Over time, the American version evolved into the jolly man with reindeer we know today.

Some key differences:

Date:

• Sinterklaas: December 5th

• Santa Claus: December 25th

Arrival:

• Sinterklaas: Steamboat from Spain

• Santa: Sleigh from the North Pole

Traditions:

• Shoes and songs vs. stockings and milk & cookies

Vibes:

• Sinterklaas feels more poetic, nostalgic, and rooted in folklore;

• Christmas in the U.S. feels more commercial, sparkly, and broad in cultural reach.

• Both are magical, but Sinterklaas has a quieter, more old-world charm.

Why You Will Love This Tradition

Even if you’ve never celebrated Sinterklaas, there’s something beautifully universal about it. It’s:

• Family-centered

• Slower and cozier than the typical holiday rush

• Filled with treats and little surprises

• Steeped in kindness and generosity

• Perfect for kids, but also fun for adults

And did I mention stroopwafels? Many Americans have tried them in coffee shops or grocery stores, but in the Netherlands, they are deeply tied to winter, comfort, and tradition. Sharing a fresh, warm stroopwafel on a chilly December night feels like experiencing the holiday the way it was meant to be felt.

Bringing a Bit of Sinterklaas Home

If you’re in the States and want to try incorporating a little Dutch magic into your season, here are some ideas:

• Place shoes near the fireplace and leave a tiny surprise.

• Hide a stroopwafel for someone you love.

• Write a funny poem with a gift.

• Try baking spiced Dutch cookies (kruidnoten).

• Celebrate a cozy “Presents Evening” on December 5th.

• It’s a lovely way to slow down, share stories, and savor small moments as a family.

A Sweet Tradition Worth Sharing

Sinterklaas may be unfamiliar to many Americans, but its charm is universal. It turns cold nights into warm memories. It brings families together without the pressure of a big commercial holiday. And it reminds children—and adults—that kindness, generosity, and a little magic can brighten even the darkest days of winter.

Oh, and it gives you the perfect excuse to eat as many stroopwafels as you possibly can.

And really… isn’t that what the holidays are all about?