We have the same in Holland. Sint Nicolaas and it is also on December 5th. It is about the same bisshop who is burried in Myra.
The dirty children you mention is put in another way; black pete.
They are the ones helping out Sint Nicolaas with presenting the gifts here.
And also the same you mention; chocolate is one of the main presents you receive in your shoe.
But the red robe you mention is how he is dressed here.
