Sinterklaas & Shoes

Putting out your shoe for Sinterklaas on December 6th. A sketch by Gwen Gyldenege (c) calmundertension

In an office I once worked in, I was introduced to the Dutch tradition of putting out your shoe for Sinterklaas on the eve of December 5th in the hopes that the following morning you'd find treats brimming o'er the tops of your shoes. I worked with many Dutch people and loved learning their traditions. What was even more fun was seeing the other Americans in the office get excited too. A couple guys brought in an extra pair of shoes so they could leave without giving up one they had worn into the office. Made me giggle just watching & hearing their planning.

While I don't continue this tradition myself, the night before Sinterklaas was due to visit, I found myself sketching out Dutch klomps, complete with the carrots & potatos traditionally left (and also typical ingredients in a main staple Dutch dish), plus the wrapped chocolate Sinterklaas that De Goedheiligman would leave for little children.