The celebration of Sinterklaas knows no bounds in cordiality and hospitality, as evidenced by the planned festivities on November 18.
As the cold November days approach, the festive spirit flares up: Sinterklaas is preparing to delight the Low Countries with his annual arrival. Antwerp is preparing for a festive welcome to the Holy Father on November 18, with the city involving not only children but also national viewers in the festivities. Saint Nicholas arrives at Steenplein by steamboat, a tradition that does not lose its historical resonance, and afterwards addresses the expectant crowd from the balcony of the town hall.
In the shadow of the centuries-old Grote Markt, children gather, supported by a variety of side entertainment, for an afternoon full of fun. The program reflects the inclusive spirit of the celebration: facilities for wheelchair users and Flemish Sign Language interpreters underline accessibility. The arrival and celebrations are diverse in nature, with live music and well-known figures from the children's world adding to the ambiance.
The joy extends to Gorinchem, the Netherlands, where Mayor Reinie Melissant has the honor of welcoming Sinterklaas during the national arrival. The choice of Gorinchem as the host city adds a new chapter to the historical tapestry of the Sinterklaas celebration. NTR provides a national broadcast, so that children throughout the Netherlands can witness this spectacle. For children, the arrival marks the moment when the anticipation for Christmas Eve begins: the placing of the shoe.
Three stages that will be placed along the route - on the Tolsteeg, the Grote Markt and the Groenmarkt - will serve as central points for entertainment and togetherness, which will make the atmosphere comparable to that during the Summer Festival.
Gorinchem, a city known for its historic charm, has been chosen this year as the host city for the national arrival of Sinterklaas. Preparations are in full swing and it promises to be a day that will delight both young and old. Below is an explanation of the program that takes place on Saturday, November 18, a day on which Gorinchem will be transformed into Bliekenstad for this festive occasion.
The party starts at Buiten de Waterpoort, where Sinterklaas will be welcomed at exactly 12 noon. The setting for this reception is a fitting location, given the Waterpoort's historical significance as part of the ancient fortifications. The reception will also be the starting signal for a grand parade through the city center, where Santa will be accompanied by a kaleidoscope of local clubs, associations and companies that give the procession a local touch.
The parade route has been carefully planned and will be accompanied by a multitude of music and theater. In addition to the parade, the party continues with a rich program in the city. At various places, including the Pig Market, children can get started with Sinterklaas craft activities from 14.00 p.m. Musical talent is given a stage in the Rehoboth Church where the youth symphony orchestra gives a performance.
The official festivities are over at 15.00 p.m., but the memories will undoubtedly last a long time. The city is taking extensive precautions to ensure the event runs smoothly. The city center will be closed to traffic and parking will be adjusted to accommodate the expected 25.000 visitors and television crews who will capture the event.
In preparation for the arrival of Santa Claus, Ketnet provides entertainment with performances and entertainment on the Grote Markt. The supporting program, provided by Kaatje, Viktor, Kamiel and De KetnetBand, guarantees an exuberant atmosphere that starts at 13 p.m.
Antwerp braces itself for a day full of festivities with a varied program that will delight young and old. The arrival, which starts when Santa Claus moors his steamboat at Steenplein at exactly 14 p.m., will be a spectacle in which the city promises a warm welcome with a diversity of characters from the Sinterklaas story.
Surrounded by his helpers and special guests such as Conchita, Ramon and Kneta Knieplaat, Sinterklaas will brighten up the banks of the Scheldt with his arrival. The famous Saint Nicholas and his entourage will be welcomed by none other than Bart Peeters and Antwerp mayor Bart De Wever, who will give Saint Nicholas an official welcome.
Once on land, Santa will be escorted by a cheerful procession along the Ernest Van Dijckkaai and the Suikerrui, after which the route culminates on the Grote Markt. It is expected that Sinterklaas will make his appearance at the town hall at 14.45 pm, where he will address the gathered crowd from the balcony. This highlight has been one of the most iconic moments of the celebration for years.
The importance of the arrival is great for both the host cities and the community; it provides an opportunity to demonstrate local pride and strengthen national unity. But above all, it is and remains a party for all children.
These events are more than a party; they anchor cultural heritage, rooted in age-old traditions that are given a modern interpretation every year. Sinterklaas's various arrival options — ranging from steamboat to horse and carriage — reflect the creativity and adaptability that keep this tradition alive.
