Pakjesavond

Pakjesavond, literally "gift evening," is a Dutch and Flemish festive occasion on the evening of 5 December, when families exchange presents in anticipation of Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December. It is a central part of the Sinterklaas tradition, celebrated primarily in the Netherlands and Flanders, Belgium, and also in some former Dutch colonies.

Gifts are often personalized and wrapped in creative packaging, accompanied by a short poem that teases the recipient or provides clues. Many gifts are "surprises," crafted into dioramas or clever constructions that require some unwrapping and guessing. The giver's identity is sometimes kept secret until the moment of opening.

Sinterklaas, based on the historical Saint Nicholas, is said to arrive by steamboat in mid-November with helpers known as Pieten. Pakjesavond marks the culmination of the Sinterklaas season, featuring small gifts, chocolate letters, pepernoten, speculaas, and other sweets.

In recent decades, discussions about cultural sensitivity surrounding Zwarte Piet have led to changes in some communities, including reduced use of Blackface or the adoption of alternative depictions such as "roetveegpieten." The tradition remains a widely observed annual event, with families across the region participating in gift-giving, poems, and festive treats.