Pakjesavond is celebrated every year on the 5th December, and for many Dutch people it is an important annual tradition that brings friends and family together in the holiday season.
'Pakjesavond' itself means 'package evening', and, for younger children, it is the evening that Sinterklaas brings them their presents. Often, children can place their shoes by the fireplace, by the door, or even by the radiator, for Sinterklaas to leave some toys or candy in. For older children and adults, the evening is a chance to give presents to your loved ones, but these gifts always come with a twist: 'surprises'.
'Surprises' are presents that are disguised to such an extent that the recipient cannot guess what the present might actually be, and for many families you will be randomly assigned a person in the group to create this 'surprise for'. Consider wrapping a book in the shape of a guitar, or shoes in the shape of a ball!
Usually these gifts are also accompanied by a poem written by the giver, often supposedly from Sinterklaas himself or one of his helpers. You can even make up a small game to accompany the gift, which may give clues as to what it is, or may provide instructions as to how to open the gift (for those who have made it especially hard to open the present).
Other important Pakjesavond traditions including singing traditional Sinterklaas songs and eating pepernoten (a Dutch spiced biscuit) and chocolate letters. Dutch supermarkets and stores start selling pepernoten and chocolate letters in September (!) so you have plenty of time to buy some of these typically Dutch snacks in preparation for Pakjesavond!
Most importantly, Pakjesavond is a time to spend time and play games with friends and family, so why not consider making this evening a part of your annual celebrations too?
