What do they call Saint Nicholas in the Netherlands?

According to Dutch tradition, on 5th December, 'Sinterklaas' (Saint Nicholas) arrives in the Netherlands on a steamboat from Spain. He is accompanied by 'Zwarte Piet' (Black Peter), who helps him visit the homes of every child to leave gifts. Black Peter got his name from the soot that stains his face after climbing down thousands of chimneys to distribute the treats.

Outside of the Netherlands, 'Sinterklaas' is often mistaken for Santa Claus. Yet, the origins of 'Sinterklaas' predate the tradition of Santa Claus or Father Christmas. On the other hand, 'Sinterklaas' (Saint Nicholas) inspired the American concept of Santa Claus after the Dutch colonised part of the Americas.

The Dutch version of Father Christmas or Santa Claus is called 'Kerstman'. Since only 50% of Dutch people exchange presents on Christmas day, 'Kerstman' is not as popular as Santa Claus in the United States and United Kingdom.

Saint Nicholas (AD 270-343) was the Greek Bishop of Myra in present-day Turkey. He is said to have distributed his money among the poor, which inspired the tradition of gift giving. 'Sinterklaas' is usually depicted as an elderly man with white hair and a long beard. He wears similar clothing to a bishop, including a long red cape, red stole and a red mitre (hat).