The Arrival of Sinterklaas

It’s a cherished tradition. Every year, Sinterklaas and a large group of Pieten arrive in Helmond. Traveling via the Zuid-Willemsvaart, the steamboat makes its way from Spain into the heart of the city, near Burgemeester Geukerspark. This year, Sinterklaas will arrive on November 17th (and that’s soon!). Following an official key handover from the mayor, Sinterklaas will begin a procession through the city center.

Program for November 17

12:30: Bart & Theo will get the crowd warmed up as Sinterklaas and his Pieten arrive. There will be plenty of singing and dancing, so no one will be cold! Once ashore, the mayor will hand over the key (and the Wi-Fi code) to the Castle. Afterward, the Spanish delegation will proceed toward the Market, taking their time so that treats can be handed out along the way—because that’s all part of the tradition, right?

Just like in previous years, the route will pass through the grounds of Sinterklaas’s Castle, where fun activities await. The route then continues from the Castle grounds toward the Oude Aa, along the narrow Haven, and into Veestraat. From there, it proceeds to the Market.

14:00: Sinterklaas arrives at the Market, where children will have the chance to meet him personally. He’s thought of each and every child and has a surprise for them all. Throughout the afternoon, there will be entertaining performances by artists and local clubs on the stage—featuring everything from singing and dancing to music.

Around 16:00: Sinterklaas will head back to the Castle to unpack his suitcase and take a nap. After all, it’s been quite a journey, and he’s not as young as he once was.