Santa Claus in Belgium
Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas or Saint Nicholas, is a popular figure in Belgian culture during the Christmas season. The character of Santa Claus has evolved throughout the centuries and has different traditions across the world. In Belgium, Santa Claus is known as Sinterklaas and has a unique history and celebration.
Saint Nicholas: The Original Belgian Santa
Saint Nicholas is the original Belgian Santa who lived in the 4th century in what is now Turkey. He was known for his kindness and generosity, especially towards children. Saint Nicholas became the patron saint of sailors, merchants, and children. In Belgium, Saint Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6th, and it is a time for children to receive gifts from Saint Nicholas.
Sinterklaas: How Belgium Celebrates Saint Nicholas
In Belgium, Sinterklaas is the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas, and his arrival is celebrated on the first Sunday of November. Sinterklaas wears a red bishop’s attire, carries a shepherd’s crook, and has a long white beard. He rides a white horse and travels from Spain to Belgium to deliver gifts to children. Sinterklaas and his helpers, called Zwarte Pieten or Black Petes, visit schools and shops to give out candy and toys.
The Legend of Saint Nicholas in Belgian Culture
The legend of Saint Nicholas has a significant impact on Belgian culture. The story of Saint Nicholas giving gifts to children has been passed down for generations, and it continues to be celebrated to this day. Saint Nicholas is known for his kindness and generosity towards children, and his legacy has inspired many charitable organizations in Belgium.
Zwarte Piet: Saint Nicholas’ Controversial Helper
Zwarte Piet or Black Pete is a controversial character in the Sinterklaas celebration. Zwarte Piet is portrayed with blackface, curly hair, and red lips. Many Belgians view the character as offensive and racist, while others see it as a harmless tradition. In recent years, there have been calls to remove the character from the Sinterklaas celebration.
Christmas in Belgium: The Role of Santa Claus
Although Sinterklaas is the primary figure during the Christmas season in Belgium, Santa Claus also plays a role. Many Belgian families exchange gifts on Christmas Day, and Santa Claus is often seen as a symbol of the holiday spirit. Children leave out cookies and milk for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, hoping he will bring them presents.
Santa Claus vs. Sinterklaas: Similarities and Differences
Although Santa Claus and Sinterklaas share some similarities, there are also significant differences between the two characters. Sinterklaas is a bishop, wears a bishop’s attire, and has a white horse. Santa Claus wears a red suit, has a sleigh, and is accompanied by reindeer. Both characters bring gifts to children, but they have different traditions and histories.
Santa’s Arrival in Belgium: The Parade Tradition
In Belgium, Santa Claus arrives by boat in the city of Antwerp during the last week of November. The arrival is marked by a parade, fireworks, and music. The parade attracts thousands of visitors and is a significant event in the Christmas season.
Belgian Christmas Markets and the Role of Santa
Belgian Christmas markets are popular during the holiday season, and Santa Claus often makes an appearance. Children can visit Santa’s grotto and have their picture taken with him. Santa Claus also gives out candy and toys to children at the markets.
Belgian Children’s Expectations of Santa Claus
Belgian children have high expectations of Santa Claus and Sinterklaas. They write letters to Santa Claus and leave out cookies and milk for him on Christmas Eve. Children also expect to receive gifts from Sinterklaas on December 6th. The anticipation of receiving gifts from both Santa Claus and Sinterklaas is a significant part of Belgian Christmas traditions.
Belgian Christmas Traditions and Santa Claus
Santa Claus plays a vital role in Belgian Christmas traditions. Belgian families exchange gifts on Christmas Day, and children eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus. The Christmas season in Belgium is marked by festive decorations, music, and food.
Conclusion: The Beloved Santa Claus in Belgium
Santa Claus is a beloved figure in Belgian culture during the Christmas season. Although Sinterklaas is the primary figure during the holiday, Santa Claus also plays a role. Belgian children eagerly await the arrival of both Santa Claus and Sinterklaas, and the anticipation of receiving gifts is a significant part of the Christmas season. Belgian Christmas traditions are marked by festive decorations, music, and food, and Santa Claus is an essential part of the celebrations.
