Editor’s note: December 5 and 6 are St Nicholas’ Eve and Day in the Netherlands, which both commemorate the life of St Nicholas, a Christian saint who is popular among children because of his reputation as a bringer of gifts.

St Nicholas (also known as Sinterklaas) celebrations include family gatherings, exchanging presents and treats, and festive songs dedicated to the saint. Children leave out clogs or shoes, hoping for Sinterklaas to fill them with presents. At this time of the year, St Nicholas is seen with his helper, Zwarte Piet, in shopping centers, schools and hospitals throughout the Netherlands.

St Nicholas rides his horse Amerigo in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]

St Nicholas arrives on his boat in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]

The Black Petes (Zwarte Piet) arrive on their boat in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]

St Nicholas arrives on his boat in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]

St Nicholas, riding his horse Amerigo, roams the streets of Amsterdam greeting all attendees to the event in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]

The white-bearded legend traditionally makes his spectacular entrance into the city by sailing down the Amstel River and following a route through the city in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on Nov 18, 2018. [Photo/IC]