#8: The Netherlands Celebrate Sinterklaas

On the enchanting eve of December 6, the Dutch embrace the delightful tradition of Sinterklaas, a celebration where Sinterklaas, a wise and kind figure much like Santa Claus, works his magic. As night falls, he leaves little treasures, sweets, and heartwarming poems tucked snugly into the eagerly awaiting shoes of Dutch children.

But the festivities don’t stop there; it’s a time for light-hearted jests and laughter, too. With witty poetry and the iconic “surprise,” a homemade gift-within-a-gift, families playfully poke fun at one another, wrapping their affection in laughter. It’s a holiday where surprises come in many forms, leaving hearts brimming with warmth and joy.