Sinterklaas is an elderly man from Turkey who travels every year from Spain to the Netherlands by steam boat. He has many helpers who are referred to as Zwarte Piet (Black Pete).
This year I hope to be amongst the crowd to great Sinterklaas upon his entrance to the city. The welcoming city usually has several activities to welcome him. He rides through the city on a great white horse for a parade.
During the period of Sinterklaas' visit, children place shoes in front of the fireplace or central heating units; often including a carrot, hay or some other treat from the horse. If he visits that night, in return, candy and a small present is left. He knows the behavior of all children, so those who behave badly are placed in one of Piet's bags and taken back to Spain. At the close of the season each household is left with a large bag of gifts.
Friede visited her home recently and brought me back a Sinterklaas chocolate; the season is already in the stores. She also brought some other treats, two kinds of cookies, very very tasty. Traditionally goodies are Pepernoten, Kruidnoten, letter-shaped pastries filled with almond paste, a chocolate letter, Speculaas, chocolate coins and Marzipan figures. I hope to try all of these items if I get to visit the town during his arrival on November 12 in Dordrecht.
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