Sinterklaas

While living in the Netherlands I had the opportunity to witness a highly controversial tradition in Leiden. Sinterklaas and his Pieten receives widespread criticism due to its resemblance of slaves and racist costumes.

The black Pete arrive into Leiden on boats while being greeted by the large crowds of families signalling the start of the celebration.

The Pieten greet the children and give them small ginger cookies called pepernoten. Many children have bags to collect their pepernoten in.

The tradition has grown to include many different types of Pete. Here I found Elvis Pete.

Sinterklaas arrives on the last boat and gives a welcome speech to the waiting crowd from a stage. After the black pete take over and sings classic upbeat songs engaging the whole crowd.

Most of the children dress to imitate Zwarte Pete as he is the star of the show bringing the good treats, upbeat songs and dance routines.

Sinterklaas prepares for the parade through the town but first stops to say some personal hellos.

The parade starts and heads through the main streets towards town hall. There are many Black Pete around dancing and handing out Pepernoten.

Sinterklaas rides through town on top of his classic white horse while waving to the crowd.

Sinterklass and his Pieten

Sinterklaas