2015-11-12 – Two days before making his way down chimneys to bring presents to all the children who have been good, St Nicholas will be making a special appearance at the Port of Brussels on 4 December.
The patron saint of children was more than happy to accept the invitation he received from the Brussels-Capital Region and is looking forward to coming to meet Brussels’ schoolchildren. 1,000 children aged between 5 and 8 have been invited to come to the port to greet St Nicholas’ boat. In the morning, the children will be able to attend a huge party, with entertainment, music and hot drinks. As soon as St Nicholas arrives, he will be welcomed in style by a crowd of impatient children and the Minister-President. In a marquee decorated in his honour, he will then meet and spend some precious moments with each class. The party will come to an end with the inevitable distribution of all sorts of treats and goodies.
This event is offered to all schools in the Brussels-Capital Region. Due to limited capacity and in order to ensure that each child has a wonderful experience, the organisers request that you confirm your attendance before 20 November by sending an email to events@visit.brussels. Please also confirm your attendance by sending an email to c.renard@visitbrussels.be.
Location: Quai des Péniches – 1000 Brussels
Timetable:
- 09:45 am: Children arrive
- 10:30 am: Arrival of St Nicholas
- 10:30 am to 1:00 pm: Children get to meet St Nicholas, handing out of sweets and hot chocolate, activities for children aged 5 to 8
- 1:00 pm: St Nicholas departs
For those who do not know St Nicholas…
St Nicholas is celebrated in Belgium on 6 December. The main aim is to make it a day to remember for children. This tradition is also followed in several other European countries, including the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany and northern France. The celebration may take different forms depending on the region: in Belgium, St Nicholas generally comes down the chimney to reward good children with presents and sweets.
