Several groups had announced demonstrations during the Saint Nicholas arrival in Den Bosch on Sunday, including protests over the appearance of Piet. Demonstrators supporting the traditional black Piet were to be assigned a designated area on the Orthenstraat, at a considerable distance from the Markt. Signs were to mark the area, and police officers and supervisors were to be present.

Mayor Jack Mikkers said he would have preferred the discussion to have faded, but emphasized that the municipality was legally required to provide space for demonstrations. The Saint Nicholas arrival was scheduled for 15 November at the Markt, with visitors welcome from 11:30 and activities in the city centre until 16:00. No demonstrations were known to have been announced in other Brabant cities during Saint Nicholas arrivals.