3: The arrival of Sinterklaas
A long time ago, in 1873, some farmers in a town called Zwolle played a funny joke. They dressed someone up as Sinterklaas and gave sweets to poor children. This was the first time Sinterklaas arrived!
Since 1952, people can watch Sinterklaas and his helpers, the Zwarte Pieten, arrive on TV. They usually come on a steamboat from Spain, but sometimes they use a train, plane, or even a hot air balloon!
Each year, they land in a different place.
Sinterklaas always comes on a Saturday, about three weeks before December 5th. This gives everyone time to get ready and buy presents!