Sinterklaas is coming to town...

in the Netherlands anyway!  On December 5th, Sinterklaas departs from his residence in Spain on his trusted white horse, Amerigo, and his helpers known as Zwarte Pieten (Black Pete/Petes), heading out to the Dutch port.  He will deliver presents to the "good" children who have left a shoe by the fireplace or the windowsill.  

Taking a bit of a dark turn, rumor has it the Zwarte Pieten seek out bad children and collect them in their sacks to take back to Spain (sounds absolutely horrifying), especially considering that the Zwarte Pieten have soot-stained faces from peeking out of fireplaces, giant afro-type hairstyles, big gold hoop earrings, and ridiculously brightly painted red lips. 

Sinterklaas apparently loves to hear children singing, and he will listen out for those singing especially loud to reward them with goodies such as gingerbread and chocolates.

A few lucky families may hear a knock on their door while having dinner on Christmas Eve and when they open their doors, they may discover an extra sack filled with goodies to be opened later that evening.

                        VROLIJK KERSTFEEST!!!