[Video] Who exactly is Sinterklaas?

By Victoria Séveno

If you’re new to the Netherlands, you might not yet be familiar with the Dutch gift-giving tradition of Sinterklaas. If you’ve been living here a while, maybe you think you know everything there is to know about this holiday - but do you really? Who is Sinterklaas, and where does he come from? 

Who is Sinterklaas?

Sinterklaas is more than just a Santa Claus-type figure who rides around on a white horse handing out gifts every winter. The figure is steeped in history. So, who exactly is Sinterklaas? And how did he become such a significant figure? Let’s find out.

So, have you learned something new today about Saint Nicolas? If you're so sure of your knowledge, why not quiz yourself on how much you know about this Dutch holiday.

What's your favourite aspect of the Dutch tradition of Sinterklaas? Let us know in the comments below!


Victoria Séveno
Victoria grew up in Amsterdam, before moving to the UK to study English and Related Literature at the University of York and completing her NCTJ course at the Press Association in London. She has a love for all things movies, animals, and food. Read more

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