CIRCLE  SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, ON YOUR CALENDAR

“Zie ginds komt de stoomboot”  (Look, there is the steamboat) sung at fever pitch. It’s the same every year as a crowd waits at the harbor for the arrival of Saint Nicholas and his Piet helpers. When the boat from Spain arrives , the eminent visitor will be welcomed by the mayor. Then Sinterklaas jumps on his horse and joins a colorful procession complete with music and floats. Along the route, outstretched hands will be filled with ‘pepernoten’( spicy cookies ).The parade comes along the Frederik Hendriklaan at about 1:00 PM. (Check posters in shop windows for the expected time of arrival). It’s an exciting time of year leading up to Sint’s birthday celebration on December 5.

BOOK CHOICE
The highly recommended book “Sinterklaas” is an ideal choice for expat families. Charming illustrations – no words, no text. The author / illustrator Charlotte Dematons recently won the ‘gouden penseel’ ( golden paintbrush)  award for her delightful book which is guaranteed to entertain both young and old.
“Sinterklaas”  ISBN 9789 0563 79858

WEBSITES  IN ENGLISH
dutchmarket.com/sklaas.html
minbuza.nl/en/welcome/Netherlands/traditions
stnicholascenter.org