Sinterklaas lands spectacularly in Dronryp with a helicopter!

Sinterklaas lands spectacularly in Dronryp with a helicopter!

On December 4, 2025, Dronryp experienced a very special arrival from Sinterklaas. The traditional custom of Saint Nicholas arriving on a steamship from Spain was spectacularly replaced this year by a helicopter. Michelle Jonker from It Anker Primary School reported that it took three years to organize this unique arrival, which was born from an idea submitted to an ideation hall where children could submit their suggestions. The helicopter as an arrival vehicle was the children's favorite request - a real hit!

With a touch of magic, Sinterklaas floated over the city in his helicopter. Jonker's husband, who has experience operating helicopters, made a valuable contribution to this innovative idea. The children's reactions were overwhelmingly positive; For them, the arrival was a unique experience that they will not soon forget.

Tradition meets innovation

Sinterklaas, also known as Sint-Nicolaas, is a legendary figure based on Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children. In the Netherlands, the Sinterklaas holiday is celebrated on December 6th, while gifts are given on the evening of December 5th. This tradition is over 800 years old and dates back to the generosity of St. Nicholas in the 4th century Wikipedia describes. Sinterklaas wears a red hood and his appearance is traditionally accompanied by the helper Zwarte Piet.

Traditionally, Sinterklaas comes from Spain on a steamship, rides a white horse named Ozosnel (formerly Amerigo) and brings gifts for the good children. Particularly popular are the small treats such as pepper notes, chocolate coins and other sweets that children find in their shoes, which is another loving tradition that children experience while celebrating the festival. Arrival parades are held in many towns, including Dronryp, and are broadcast live on television, adding even more splendor to the festival.

A celebration of creativity and community

Sinterklaas promotes values ​​such as generosity, creativity and community through families writing traditional poems, making small gifts and celebrating together. The preparations for the festival begin in mid-November and include many creative elements, such as handmade “surprises”, which are made of different materials and always have a humorous touch Language Kids explained.

The festival is not only a celebration for children, but also for adults, who often give poems and gifts and express their creativity. The thing about having your own shoe station in front of the door or fireplace, where a carrot for the horse or a drawing is placed, is part of the anticipation that brings the whole family together.

So the arrival of Sinterklaas in Dronryp remains a very special moment that shows the modern interpretation of a traditional custom. With a creative arrival from the air, the connection between tradition and innovation becomes impressively visible - something that not only thrilled the children, but also puts a smile on the faces of adults.