On Saturday the 17th of November at 11 a.m., there was a very important arrival at the docks of 'Rederij Stiphout'. This is none other than the arrival of SinterKlaas to Maastricht. After having heard about this traditional Dutch event from a friend, I naturally got incredibly excited and made plans to attend.
Upon arriving at the location along the river one could tell that this was a very special event. With costumes, bands, and hundreds eagerly looking down the river for the first sign of Sinterklaas, the feeling of Christmas cheer was overwhelming.
Suddenly, the blare of a steamboat horn could be heard, as the steamboat with Sinterklaas and all his helpers came into view. As children eagerly climbed up whatever stationary (or parental) object that was nearby, the mayor of Maastricht gracefully welcomed Sinterklaas. With great ceremony, Sinterklaas slowly made his way to a waiting horse drawn carraige for the parade through town. Accompanied by the cheers of children and the sounds of the bands, Sinterklaas set off to tour around Maastricht. Children wearing traditional hats and capes ran alongside, recieving bits of candy from the many helpers' burlap sacks.
The entire event was incredible for me to see. It would be very rare in the U.S. to see such a religiously affiliated event that takes over the hearts of the people and the town for the day. I truly felt like a child who got to visit Santa Claus at the mall. Yet another incredible experience!
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