Sinterklaas vs. Santa Claus
Some internationals in the Netherlands get confused in December. Not because they don't know where to go during the holidays or how to celebrate New Year’s Eve. No, it's because of the two men in red - both with a big white beard - who dominate the last month of the year. Sinterklaas and Santa Claus: who are they for Piet’s sake and what is the difference?
What do they do?
Sinterklaas
In mid-November, Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands by steamboat, usually in the third weekend of November. During the two weeks before his 'birthday' on 6 December, Sinterklaas rides across rooftops at night on his white horse, listening through chimneys for good children and leaving them gifts and sweets in their shoes. On 5 December, the evening before his birthday, Sinterklaas ends his stay in the Netherlands with a big bang: Pakjesavond. On this night, Sinterklaas knocks on everyone’s door to give children presents. Usually the Dutch children receive most of their presents during Sinterklaas instead of Christmas, which is the most common in the rest of the world.
Santa Claus
In the calendar of Santa Claus, 24 December is indeed one busy night. Throughout the evening, Santa Claus traverses from rooftop to rooftop, sliding himself down the chimneys of our homes to deliver presents to well-behaved children. Though he doesn't work alone; He recieves help from his elves, who make the toys in his workshop on the North Pole, and his flying reindeer who help pull along his sleigh. On 25 December, Santa takes a well-earned rest, while many families can happily enjoy their gifts and big Christmas meals.
Who are they?
Sinterklaas
The original Saint Nicholas (Sinterklaas) was a Bishop of Myra in Asia Minor in the first half of the fourth century. He was seen as the patron saint for children.
Santa Claus
A made-up character based on Sinterklaas and Father Christmas. Santa Claus made his debut in the New World shortly after the Dutch colonisation of the Americas. Coincidence?
How do they look?
Sinterklaas
Sinterklaas wears a long red cape over a traditional white bishop's alb and sometimes a red stola. He also wears a red mitre and ruby ring, while holding a gold-coloured shepherd's staff with a curled top. He is usually riding his white horse.
Santa Claus
Carrying a little holiday weight, Santa Claus dresses for comfort rather than style, in a red two-piece with white trim and a thick black belt. He is a big fan of the sturdy boot, and his bulging sack is rarely out of sight. He is usually travelling on his sleigh which is being pulled by his 9 flying reindeer (including red-nosed Rudolph).
Where do they stay the rest of the year?
Sinterklaas
He spends most of the year enjoying sunny Spain, before work comes calling and he is able to experience the joys of a Dutch winter.
Santa Claus
Santa goes back to his wife, Mrs. Claus, and his workshop located on the North Pole, filled with elves, eager to get started with work on the next year.
