Santa's helper

Sinterklaas, also called Saint Nicholas arrived in Rotterdam today. Sinterklaas is a children's tradition here, way more popular than Christmas (actually, Santa Claus originates from Sinterklaas). He arrives in a steam ship from Spain, and after the night presents are being opened on 5 December, he leaves again.

Sinterklaas is being helped by hundreds of helpers, his 'Zwarte Pieten', or Black Piets*. This one is the Piet who is responsible for Americo, Sinterklaas' horse. The head Piet had a remarkably Rotterdam accent, for someone who comes from Spain.

Lots of discussion lately about the blackness of his helpers, but I stay with the story they are black from going down the chimneys to deliver the presents.