Santa, St Nicholas arrives early in Holland with his gifts, in November. He is dressed in Bishop's robes and journeys in a boat with his helper who is called Black Peter and who wears Spanish clothes. Throughout the year they prepare lists of presents and writing every child's behavior in a very large book, which Santa is holding. Many people go to Amsterdam docks to greet him. He mounts a snow horse and rides through the streets in a great parade, amid many festivities. His bag is filled with toys that represent many aspects of a Christmas in Holland; the toy boat, traditional wooden shoes, horse, and Black Peter doll.
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