Sinterklaas will make his entry into the capital by boat this year, the organization Sinterklaas in Amsterdam reported on Thursday. The saintly man and his helpers will arrive by steamboat for a limited audience, after which a "compact party" will follow at the Marine Etablissement Amsterdam, according to chairman of the foundation Edgar Peer.
Due to the corona measures, the foundation decided in August that a traditional entry by boat, followed by a horseback ride with a large audience, is not possible this year either. Checking for corona tickets among about 400.000 attendees was considered unfeasible.
The foundation then explored two options. One possibility was an entry and major event in the Johan Cruijff ArenA with many children and show elements. Wednesday seemed to be preferable. According to Peer, the other option that has now been chosen is “a more compact event with a classic appearance of the arrival with Sinterklaas by steamboat and then a meeting of Saint Nicholas and his helpers with Amsterdam children”.
Meets corona requirements
According to the organization, the chosen option meets the corona requirements of the municipality. 5000 to 6000 children can attend the party at the Marine Etablissement Amsterdam. It will also be broadcast on television. The entry will be held on Sunday 14 November.
Recently, the Amsterdam organization has been rumbling in the search for an alternative program for the entry. Mayor Femke Halsema spoke with the board of the foundation on Wednesday to help reduce the unrest within the ranks and to ensure "that the feelings of the volunteers become a bit happier." The organization emphasizes on Thursday that it has the great wish to be able to organize a classic entry into Amsterdam again next year.
