Illustration of a kids workshop scene (Sinterklaas Celebration Lelystad)
Other Christmas Activities

Sinterklaas Celebration Lelystad

Celebrate the beloved Dutch tradition of Sinterklaas, a festive holiday event centered around the arrival of Sinterklaas and his Pieten. Children can eagerly await gifts on Pakjesavond (December 5th) after putting their shoes out nightly. The event delves into the rich history and customs, from the iconic steamboat arrival to the joyous singing of traditional Sinterklaas songs.

What to Expect

Traditional Dutch Sinterklaas celebration with gift-giving and songs.

Event Details

Duration

Daily events during the season

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Patrick de Graaf

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Traditional, festive, joyful

Energy Level

Low

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Location

Lelystad
Lelystad

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • To increase the chances of receiving a gift in your shoe, children can leave drawings for Sinterklaas or treats like sugar cubes for his horse.
  • Familiarize yourself with popular Sinterklaas songs beforehand to fully participate in the festive atmosphere during gatherings and celebrations.
  • Consider downloading and printing Sinterklaas coloring pages to keep children entertained before and during the holiday season.
  • Pakjesavond (December 5th) is the main gift-giving event; be prepared for a lively evening with family or friends, often involving poems and surprises.
  • The 'Pieten' often deliver gifts by knocking and quickly running away, so keep an eye on the door and windows during the evening of December 5th.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Children can put their shoes out nightly for gifts.
  • Pakjesavond on December 5th is the main gift-giving event.
  • Traditional Sinterklaas songs are sung.
  • Coloring pages are available for download.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Sinterklaas arrive in the Netherlands?

Sinterklaas typically arrives in the Netherlands in mid-November, usually the first Saturday after November 11th.

What is Pakjesavond?

Pakjesavond, celebrated on December 5th, is the main event where children receive the majority of their gifts from Sinterklaas and his Pieten.

What is the role of the Pieten?

The Pieten are Sinterklaas's helpers who assist in distributing candy, filling shoes with gifts, and bringing the sack of presents.

Can I use the Sinterklaas coloring pages?

Yes, the Sinterklaas coloring pages provided on the website are free for everyone to use.

What is the significance of putting shoes out?

Children put their shoes out nightly from Sinterklaas's arrival until Pakjesavond, hoping to find small gifts and candy left by the Pieten.

Tags

holiday traditionfamily friendlychildrens activitiescommunity celebrationseasonal activitiesholiday cheerfree event

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team