Sinterklaas in Suriname

Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa, has had a turbulent history in the former colony. When Desi Bouterse ruled the country during the military dictatorship in the early eighties, the celebration was practically outlawed as being a colonialist festival. Nonetheless, Sinterklaas and his Black Peters still come to Suriname to bring children presents albeit that December 5 is not an official holiday. Not everybody is happy with the festival though. A white Sinterklaas with black Peters is viewed by some as racist. The kids, however, don't seem to mind and just look forward to their presents and sweets.