LECTURE: Sinterklaas, Solemn Festivals, and Scandalous and Unseemly Celebrations: Dutch Holiday Traditions in Early Albany

During the 17^th century, Dutch settlers to the Hudson River Valley brought Old World traditions and culture with them.  Long after the English takeover of New Netherland, Dutch language, traditions, and customs lingered on.  In colonial New Netherland and New York, holiday traditions followed a familiar Dutch form, but often merged with other traditions as well.  This lecture highlights the ways that Dutch holidays like Shrovetide (Carnival), Pinkster, and St. Nicholas Day were celebrated in Hudson Valley during the 17^th and 18^th centuries.