Sinterklaas in Grand Rapids?!

We had the joy of taking our kids to see Sinterklaas at Vanderveen's Dutch Store here in Grand Rapids on Saturday, December 5. (How perfect! Since it was the Dutch day to celebrate Christmas) It was so fun to explain to them a little bit more of their heritage and how come this "Santa" looks so different from our "normal one." Not only could they go up and talk to him but he also did what Sinterklaas was known for and that was give all good children a treat (First he had to make sure their name was not in his naughty book.:)

Afterwards we roamed the store looking at all the chocolate letters, hagelslag and stroopwafels (our kids really do enjoy a lot of traditionally Dutch snacks)and were excited to enjoy free speculaas cookies! After a quick purchase of some oliebollen mix, we were off with all sorts of smiles and laughter!