A special guest arrived in Israel. Sinterklaas, which is the Dutch equivalent of Santa Claus, was actually the inspiration behind the familiar Santa Claus that is known and loved all over the world. According to tradition, Sinterklaas comes by ship from his residence in Spain, accompanied by his dark-skinned helper, Pete.
Sinterklaas also came to the Jaffa Port by boat and was welcomed by the Netherlands ambassador in Israel, Caspar Veldkamp. Sinterklaas did not disappoint, and handed out gifts to children, as per tradition. The event was held by the initiative of the Dutch Forum in Israel.
Photo: Netherlands ambassador in Israel, Caspar Veldkamp, welcomes Sinterklaas. Photographer: Kobi Wolf, courtesy of the Netherlands Embassy in Israel