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On December 6th, Sinterklaas is widely celebrated in the Netherlands and Belgium, but in Spain, despite its cultural connection to the origins of the tradition, the holiday is not as prominent. Why is that? And what are the differences between the celebration of Sinterklaas in Spain versus the Netherlands and Belgium? This question is intriguing, as Sinterklaas has its roots in Spain, yet the way the holiday is celebrated varies significantly between these countries.
In the Netherlands and Belgium, the celebration of Sinterklaas is one of the most cherished traditions of the year. Sinterklaas, who officially celebrates his birthday on December 5th in the Netherlands and on December 6th in Belgium, traditionally arrives by steamship from Spain, according to folklore. He brings gifts and treats for children, such as chocolate letters and marzipan.
In the Netherlands, December 5th, known as "Sinterklaasavond" (Sinterklaas Eve), is the highlight of the festivities. Families exchange gifts and read aloud rhyming poems. In Belgium, the main celebration occurs on December 6th, when children leave their shoes out to be filled with presents by the generous saint.
The figure of Sinterklaas is a significant cultural icon in both countries, and the traditions surrounding the holiday are deeply embedded in their national calendars.
In Spain, Sinterklaas, or "San Nicolás," is a much less prominent figure. While Sinterklaas derives his name and attributes from Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century bishop whose feast day is celebrated worldwide on December 6th, he does not take center stage in Spain. Instead, December 6th in Spain is officially recognized as "Día de la Constitución" (Constitution Day), marking the approval of the Spanish Constitution in 1978. This makes the day historically significant for Spain but unrelated to the Sinterklaas tradition.
Spain’s holiday focus shifts to other traditions during the festive season, particularly the "Día de Reyes" (Epiphany, or Three Kings’ Day) on January 6th. This is Spain’s equivalent of Sinterklaas, where the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos) play the starring role. According to Spanish tradition, the Kings arrive on the evening of January 5th, bringing gifts for children, much like Sinterklaas does in the Netherlands and Belgium. This is the pinnacle of the Spanish Christmas celebrations and the most anticipated day for children.
The origins of Sinterklaas in Spain trace back to Saint Nicholas of Myra, but the modern celebration in Spain differs significantly from those in the Netherlands and Belgium. Rather than being extravagantly celebrated on December 5th or 6th, Sinterklaas in Spain is viewed more as a historical figure, and Constitution Day takes precedence on December 6th.
The figure of Sinterklaas was, however, introduced to other countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium, where the tradition evolved and developed into what it is today. This led to the unique customs associated with Sinterklaas in these countries, such as his iconic staff, mitre, and the inclusion of helpers like the "Pieten."
Although Sinterklaas has its origins in Spain, the holiday is not celebrated there in the same way as in the Netherlands and Belgium. In Spain, the focus is on "Día de Reyes," which brings joy to children during the Christmas season. The celebration of Sinterklaas in the Netherlands and Belgium, with its distinct traditions and practices, has developed its own identity, setting it apart from the Spanish observances. This illustrates how traditions can evolve and adapt across time and cultures, creating unique expressions of shared history.
