by Elise from Brussels asks Santa about desserts, learns about Belgium’s central role in Europe, and hears about Saint Nicholas Day speculaas cookies
Dear Santa, my name is Elise and I am eight years old. I live in Brussels, Belgium, where my papa says people here can argue quite seriously about the correct way to eat a waffle.
Dear Elise, I have witnessed that particular argument myself, and I have learned it is safest not to take a side.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, do you like Christmas desserts? My grandmother bakes speculaas cookies every December and the whole house smells like cinnamon for weeks.
I love speculaas, Elise, that crisp, spiced cookie is a genuine North Pole favorite, and I have been known to sneak more than my fair share when your grandmother leaves a plate out.
My second question is about our city. My teacher says Brussels is often called the heart of Europe because so many important meetings happen here. Is that true?
It is, Elise. Brussels hosts the headquarters of major European institutions, which is part of why it is often nicknamed the capital of Europe, alongside its own long, rich history. I always find it fitting that such an important city also takes its cookies so seriously.
My third question is about Saint Nicholas Day. My little cousin puts out a shoe on December 5th and finds treats in it the next morning. Why do we celebrate that separately from Christmas?
Saint Nicholas Day, celebrated on December 6th, honors the same generous historical bishop who inspired me in the first place, and in Belgium children traditionally leave out a shoe or carrot the night before, hoping for small treats in the morning. It is a lovely early taste of the season, a gentle reminder that generosity often arrives in small, thoughtful ways before the bigger celebrations even begin.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Elise Peeters
Brussels, Belgium
P.S. Please bring extra speculaas this year.
Already on the list, Elise. Underlined twice.
