St

He’s back in the country, Father Christmas.

Last weekend, St Nicholas didn’t just arrive on Texel; he then travelled on to Apeldoorn, Beekbergen and Ugchelen. Together with the children’s mayor, Madalie, I welcomed him – along with all his helpers, of course. It’s always a real treat to be there; there’s so much fun and a lovely atmosphere.

And although it’s originally, of course, a children’s celebration, it always keeps adults busy too, in keeping with tradition. We’re all getting properly excited by that fantastic Sinterklaasjournaal. We do miss Dieuwertje Blok, of course, but even without her it’s a joy to watch. (And thanks to the little pendant with the letter D around the new presenter’s neck, she’s still there in spirit, in a way.)

I think Sinterklaas is a perfect example of a tradition that moves with the times and, precisely because of that, remains valuable. And thanks to all those volunteers (a huge thank you to you all!) who help make it such a big celebration, it really does belong to everyone. I know that Sinterklaas is losing ground to Father Christmas, but it’s precisely that involvement from everyone – from schools to business associations and from sports clubs to care homes – that makes Sinterklaas such a special celebration after all.

What’s more, it might sound a bit sickly (like marzipan),

But Sinterklaas can help remind us that the little things are valuable too. The little poems, the surprise gifts, the songs. And the excitement on the faces of the (grand)children when there’s a knock at the door.

I wish you all a very enjoyable St Nicholas’ Day!

Ton Heerts