Sinterklaas intocht 2026: national arrival in Grave

The national Sinterklaas intocht takes place on Saturday 14 November 2026 in Grave, a historic town on the river Maas in the municipality of Land van Cuijk, Noord-Brabant. According to the municipality, Sinterklaas and his helpers arrive by boat at the Maaskade around 12:00, and the programme runs until 16:00. The arrival is broadcast live on NPO Zapp (NPO 3).

Why it matters

The national intocht draws large crowds every year, and the municipality expects it to be very busy in Grave.

Route and programme

After the arrival at the Maaskade, the procession runs through the historic centre via the Maasstraat, Korte Rogstraat, Oliestraat, Gasthuisstraat, Hamstraat, Sint Jorisstraat, Het Kasteeltje, Klinkerstraat and Rogstraat to the main stage on the Markt. The municipality’s intocht page says TV screens, first-aid posts and food trucks are placed along the route.

Getting there

The municipality advises arriving early and coming by public transport, by bike or on foot. Four temporary bicycle parks are set up, and parking in the centre of Grave is not allowed during the intocht. Drivers are directed to free car parks on the edge of town, including one at the Generaal de Bonsweg with a free shuttle bus to the centre. Road closures and the latest travel details are on the municipality’s travel page.

The national arrival is only the start: within Land van Cuijk, the municipality has also granted event permits for local arrivals in Cuijk (Loswal/Maaskade) and Beers on Sunday 15 November 2026.

Common questions

When and where is the national Sinterklaas arrival in 2026?

On Saturday 14 November 2026 in Grave, in the municipality of Land van Cuijk, Noord-Brabant. The boat arrives at the Maaskade around 12:00 and the programme runs until 16:00.

How can I watch it?

The arrival is broadcast live on NPO Zapp (NPO 3). In Grave, TV screens are placed at several points along the route.

Which route does the procession take?

From the Maaskade through the historic centre to the main stage on the Markt. The municipality publishes the full route and a map on its intocht page.

Can I park in Grave?

Not in the town centre. The municipality directs drivers to free car parks on the edge of town, with a free shuttle bus from the Generaal de Bonsweg car park, and recommends public transport, cycling or walking.

Are there other arrivals in Land van Cuijk?

Yes. The municipality has granted event permits for local arrivals in Cuijk (Loswal/Maaskade) and Beers on Sunday 15 November 2026.