Sinterklaas Arrival in Scheveningen harbour
The festivities begin at 10:00 AM at the Tweede Haven in Scheveningen. At 11:15 AM, the Pakjesboot 070 arrives in the harbour. Sinterklaas and the Pieten will wave to everyone from the boat.
The official welcome will be given by the Mayor of The Hague and the Spanish Ambassador. After the welcome ceremony, the celebrations continue before Sinterklaas sets off on his parade through The Hague.
Sinterklaas Arrival Programme Scheveningen 2026
Admission is free. Please note: the programme is subject to change.
| Time | Programme |
|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Kidz_DJ |
| 10:45 AM | Sint & Friends |
| 11:15 AM | Arrival of the Pakjesboot 070 |
| 11:30 AM | Official welcome |
| 12:00 PM | End of the stage programme |
| 12:30 PM | Start of the parade |
Sinterklaas Parade Through The Hague 2026
After his arrival in Scheveningen, Sinterklaas will travel through the shopping streets and neighbourhoods of The Hague. There will be plenty of opportunities to wave, catch pepernoten (traditional Dutch spiced biscuits) and take photos with Sinterklaas and the Pieten.
Parade route and estimated times:
| Time | Location |
|---|---|
| 12:30 PM | Departure from the harbour |
| 12:40 PM | Keizerstraat |
| 1:20 PM | Frederik Hendriklaan |
| 1:45 PM | Aert van der Goesstraat |
| 2:10 PM | Reinkenstraat |
| 2:55 PM | Thomsonlaan |
| 3:00 PM | Fahrenheitstraat |
| 3:10 PM | Weimarstraat |
| 3:45 PM | Prins Hendrikstraat |
| 4:00 PM | Piet Heinstraat |
| 4:25 PM | Frederikstraat |
| 4:30 PM | Denneweg |
Experience the Magic of Sinterklaas in The Hague
The arrival of Sinterklaas is one of the most beloved Dutch festive traditions and a wonderful experience for visitors of all ages. Every November, families gather to welcome Sinterklaas, a cheerful figure with a long white beard, red bishop’s robes and a tall red mitre, who traditionally arrives in the Netherlands by steamboat from Spain.
During the celebrations in The Hague, the harbour at Scheveningen becomes a lively meeting place filled with music, excitement and smiling faces. Children eagerly look out for Sinterklaas and his helpers, the Pieten, while the festive programme creates a joyful atmosphere for the whole family.
Who is Sinterklaas?
Sinterklaas is a traditional Dutch festive figure whose story is based on Saint Nicholas. He is accompanied by the Pieten, who help him distribute presents and treats to children. In the weeks leading up to his special evening on 5 December, children often put their shoes by the fireplace or front door, hoping to find a small present or some sweets the next morning.
One of the best-known treats associated with Sinterklaas is pepernoten: small, crunchy, spiced biscuits that are handed out during the festivities. You may also come across kruidnoten, another popular spiced biscuit often enjoyed at this time of year.
A Festive Day for the Whole Family
You do not need to know all the Dutch traditions to enjoy the arrival of Sinterklaas. Simply join the crowds, enjoy the music and performances, wave to Sinterklaas as his boat arrives and soak up the cheerful atmosphere.
After the welcome in Scheveningen, the celebrations continue with a parade through The Hague. It is a lovely opportunity to discover different parts of the city while experiencing a uniquely Dutch tradition.
Good to know: The event is free to attend and attracts large crowds. Arriving early is a good idea, especially if you want a good view of the boat’s arrival. Check the latest event information before setting off, as programme times and parade details may change.
Whether you are visiting The Hague, living here as an international resident or simply curious about Dutch culture, the arrival of Sinterklaas is a festive experience not to be missed!
Have a wonderful time at the Sinterklaas arrival celebrations in The Hague!
