Aankomst in Nederland op de boot van de stoom Pakjesboot 12 voor de traditionele festival op 5 December Sinterklaas - Stockfoto

The arrival of Sinterklaas in the city of Meppel on the steam boat Pakjesboot 12 coming from Spain. Sinterklaas is standing on the boat’s bow surrounded by his helpers the controversial Black Petes. The arrival in Meppel is the official arrival of Sinterklaas in The Netherlands for 2015 and is broadcasted on national television. Sinterklaas is a traditional Dutch holiday for children that is celebrated on the 5th of December. Recent years there's been a debate about the role of the Black Pete, who's figure is considered racist by some and traditional by others.