Post #127447 by ZebraTiki on Thu, Nov 25, 2004 11:38 AM

Dutch Sinterklaas references? Was he in the tiki rehab too?

For the best explanation of Dutch Sinterklaas traditions, read David Sedaris' essay, "Six To Eight Black Men" in his newest book, "Dress Your Family In Corduroy."

The real story is very, very strange. Highlights: Sinterklaas currently lives in Spain, yes, Spain, semi-retired, and not Spanish speaking, in his former career, he was the Bishop of Turkey, which is where he gets his wardrobe influences. On December 5th, he arrives in the Netherlands via a boat fron Spain, astride his white horse, along with 6 to 8 Moorish 'helpers', Schwarte Piet being the lead helper. Supposedly, Dutch children are told that if they are bad, Sinterklaas will hit them with a switch, and throw them into a large burlap sack & send them to live in Spain for a year...
or the referbished tiki rehab center.

Now back to Bavarian Amusements... Dahcshund Races anyone?