Pakjesavond is the Dutch name for the December 5 evening when children traditionally receive Sinterklaas gifts.
The word Pakjesavond means “Presents Evening.” It is the main gift-giving occasion in the Netherlands and is celebrated on the eve of Saint Nicholas Day. Families may exchange presents, read humorous poems, and use surprise packaging called surprises.
Sinterklaas is traditionally said to arrive from Spain and travel on a white horse, accompanied in modern celebrations by helpers. His feast day is December 6, but Dutch gift-giving usually takes place the previous evening.
Pakjesavond is not the same as Christmas Eve, known in Dutch as Kerstavond. Christmas is also celebrated in the Netherlands, but Sinterklaas customs occupy a distinct place in the seasonal calendar and historically precede Christmas gift traditions.