According to legend, Sinterklauss is a recognized protector of women and the poor. His original story is told that a lowly poor father had nothing to offer for his 3 daughters dowry which would force them into a life of servitude or prostitution.
Sinterklauss was seen dropping gold coins down the chimney 3 nights in a row ensure their father instead had a dowry for each of them.
For the Dutch, Sinterklaas isn’t just a holiday figure — he’s the heartbeat of Dutch cultural heritage and traditions.
In the Netherlands, the general rule is there are two distinct and separate holiday celebrations.
During the holiday season, families exchange presents on Pakjesavond (literally “presents evening”) and then move on to decorating their Christmas.
tree and celebrating that holiday without any gifts.
Finally, the Dutch would never have Sinterklaas arrive via reindeer and the North Pole!
Sinterklaas’s annual arrival by is by boat …. From Spain. He arrives in mid-November and is greeted with a parade through the cities streets and sites.