As is tradition in Belgium around this time of year, children send letters and drawings to Sinterklaas to ensure him they have been well-behaved over the past year so they will receive presents on 6 December. But this year, they can also bring their letter to the Sinterklaas Vault.
Sinterklaas (a legendary figure based on Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children) always calls on Bpost to answer the many letters he receives. This year, the children who have written their letter have a choice: they can send the letter to Sinterklaas' address, or they can bring it to the Sinterklaas Vault – where they will receive an answer immediately.
"Sinterklaas is an established tradition in our country. Answering letters to Santa is a tailor-made assignment from Bpost," said Jos Donvil, CEO Bpost Belgium. "The 'Sinterkluis' is an innovation inspired by the operation and design of a parcel locker. With this new concept, we especially hope that Santa can make even more children happy with the help of Bpost."
Modernising Sinterklaas
The 'Sinterkluis' is a more modern way for children to send their letters or drawings to Sinterklaas in the shape of a striking red parcel locker, with a screen and lockers full of surprises. On Wednesday and Thursday, the Vault will be installed in Brussels Central Station.
In exchange for their letter, children who go to the vault will immediately get a response letter and a treat from Sinterklaas, from his office. The 'Sinterkluis' will go on tour in most provincial capitals to give children the magic of Sinterklaas.
Every year, Sinterklaas receives thousands of entries (drawings, rhymes, wish lists, among other things) by post. His helpers have been available to answer letters since 7 November, and will remain at their post 15 December.
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The official address is Sinterklaas, Rue du Paradis 1, 0612 Ciel. These letters do not require postage. To receive a reply, the sender's address must be included on the back of the cover, or on the letter itself.
More information about who/what Sinterklaas is (as well as about his controversial helper Piet) and what exactly is celebrated on 6 December can be found here.
