St. Nicholas' Eve 2025
Date: December 5, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Caribbean Netherlands Public Holidays
Description
St. Nicholas Eve is the evening before St. Nicholas Day, celebrated on December 5. In the Caribbean Netherlands families, schools, and communities mark this night with small parties, songs, and treats for children. It is a happy, family time.
Children often leave a shoe with carrots or hay for St. Nicholas horse, then find small gifts or sweets in the morning. People sing Sinterklaas songs and share special snacks. The holiday mixes Dutch traditions with local island customs, making it unique in places like Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius.
The night is important because it teaches kindness, sharing, and community. It keeps old stories alive and brings neighbors and families together each year.
Traditions
St. Nicholas Eve on the Caribbean Netherlands mixes Dutch Sinterklaas with island flavor. Children often sing songs, leave shoes out for small treats, and schools hold parties with poems and simple gifts from parents or neighbours.
Families attend church services or community gatherings on December 5 or 6. Parades and costumed figures appear sometimes, with local music, drums, and singing. People share sweets like ginger cookies and local candies alongside Caribbean snacks.
Meals blend Dutch and island foods. You might find pastries, chocolate, and local specialities such as fried fish, stewed goat, rice dishes, and rum cake at family tables and community events.
Each island varies. Saba and St. Eustatius tend to keep more Dutch Sinterklaas customs, while Bonaire mixes them more with Creole and Caribbean celebrations.
Travel Tips
Expect quieter shops and some government offices closed on St. Nicholas Eve. Local parades, music, and gift giving happen in towns. Streets and harbors can be busy at evening events and when people travel between islands.
Enjoy by joining community celebrations, sampling local sweets, and learning Sinterklaas customs. Book transport and restaurants early. Keep valuables safe in crowds and follow any local safety advice, especially around fireworks or late gatherings, so the holiday stays fun and respectful.