Some years back I was over in The Netherlands (I won't call it Holland because I was actually in Friesland) just before Christmas and Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus) was visiting the town. This is an annual event and each city/vtown/village will have it's allotted date.
His costume is similiar to our Santa, but rather more elaborate and ornate and of course he carries a sack full of toys for good children. The main difference is that he doesn't come alone, but is accompanied by Black Peter who also carries a sack - to take naughty children away in ! I rather like the "carrot and stick" philosophy - I gather that children are much more easily convinced that Black Peter is real !