2023 Sinterklaasjournaal Began! What to expect in this year?

The first episode of the 2023 SInterklaasjournaal began!

Hey there! Did you catch the first episode of the 2023 Sinterklaasjournaal last night? Oh, what a scene at our house. I promised the kids that we could watch it together if they finished dinner before 6 p.m.(as it is on air at 6 p.m. on TV – NTR). You wouldn’t believe how fast they ate – it was like a mini whirlwind hit the dining table! They constantly glanced at the clock, eagerly asking, “Is it time yet? (Obviously, they don’t know how to read the time just yet)” It was a rare evening when I didn’t have to help them to finish their meals.

Finally, with about three minutes to spare, we were all set for Sinterklaasjournaal. The kids were bouncing with excitement, hugging their Sinterklaas and Pieten stuffed toys. It was so cute and even got me super pumped about this year’s storyline. As I’ve mentioned in my previous post, Sinterklaasjournaal always packs a punch with twists and hilarious mishaps, typically thanks to a clumsy Piet.

What is in the first episode of the 2023 Sinterklaasjournaal?

This year, it looks like Sinterklaas’s trip from Spain to the Netherlands is in for a big hiccup. Can you believe Piet left Sinterklaas’s big red book behind? That book is like Santa’s list – it has all the details about every child. The first episode ended on a cliffhanger, with Pieten realizing the book was missing from the steamboat. The look on my kids’ faces was priceless. My five-year-old daughter was particularly worried, fretting that Sinterklaas wouldn’t remember how good she’d been all year. I reassured her that Sinterklaas knew everything and that Pieten would surely find the book soon.

But honestly, I just love how my kids are still at that magical age where they wholeheartedly believe in Sinterklaas and are convinced they’re watching his real journey on TV. The excitement and anticipation are just adorable. Last night, my son must have asked me a dozen times when Sinterklaas would arrive. There’s something incredibly special and heartwarming about this Dutch tradition – it brings so much joy and excitement to the kids and us parents.

Did you miss the SInterklaasjournaal? 

Haven’t seen the show yet? You’ve got to check out the first episode of 2023’s Sinterklaasjournaal (You can click here to watch it). It’s a must-watch! You can visit the Sinterklaasjournaal website to watch daily updated episodes after they have been streamed on TV.

When will Sinterklaas arrive in your city?

On Saturday (November 18th) at noon, the national arrival of Sinterklaas’s steamboat will be at Gorinchem! But don’t worry, you will be able to see him in your city as well. If you want to find information about when he arrives in your city, you can check your city by clicking here (Dutch events website) to get a full overview of his arrival in each city!

Now, if you want to know what happened on Sinterklaasjournaal 2023, click here to get the summary and learn about what is coming until Sinterklaasavond!

P.S. If you are looking for some tips to celebrate the festive Sinterklaas this year, I have all the tips you need (including the perfect tried and tested gifts guide!)! Learn more about Sinterklaas tradition, and get the ultimate tips to upgrade your Sinterklaas this year!