A day after the national arrival, Sinterklaas makes his own entrance in the capital. The Amsterdam intocht is a big family day out: the Sint arrives by boat, then parades through the city centre on his white horse, followed by floats, marching bands and a lot of excited children waving carrots and drawings. 2026 is the 88th edition.
If you have small children, or just want to understand why your Dutch colleagues start talking about pepernoten in November, this is the easiest way to see the tradition up close.
- When: Sunday 15 November 2026, roughly 10:00 to 15:30
- Where: Amsterdam city centre. The I amsterdam listing gives the usual pattern: by steamboat along the Amstel from the Omval to the Scheepvaartmuseum, where he gets the key to the city, then on horseback from the Waterlooplein via Rembrandtplein, Utrechtsestraat and Weteringschans to a party on the Leidseplein. The official site still has to confirm the 2026 route
- Tickets: free
- Getting there: take the train to Amsterdam Centraal and walk or tram to the route; roads in the centre are closed for the parade.
Good to know: arrive early for a spot where little ones can actually see, and bring snacks and warm layers. Check the official site for the route.
New to all this? Read Sinterklaas explained for South Africans.
