An overview of the most important Dutch holidays

Are you curious about the holidays we celebrate in the Netherlands and the traditions that come with them? We’re happy to tell you more. The Netherlands has several unique holidays that you might not know yet but are definitely worth experiencing.

Keep in mind: some holidays are official days off, but not all employers close their doors. Always check with your Flex Manager or Job Coach to find out if a holiday also means a day off for you.

New Year’s Day | January 1st

Just like in many other countries, we celebrate the new year on January 1st in the Netherlands. What’s unique here? The New Year’s Dive! In several places, especially on Scheveningen beach, people take a plunge into the icy water to start the year off fresh. Do you dare to join?

Carnaval | February / March

Carnaval is celebrated extravagantly in the southern provinces of the Netherlands, mainly in Noord-Brabant (where our headquarters are located) and Limburg. This multi-day festival is all about dressing up, parades, parties, and… drinking beer. If you love costumes and dancing to Dutch music, Carnaval is a must!

King’s day | April 27th

On King’s Day, we celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The entire country turns orange, and there are markets, parties, and concerts everywhere. King’s Day is celebrated on a large scale in Amsterdam, but the whole country joins in. So, put on something orange and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Liberation day | May 5th

On May 5th, we commemorate the end of World War II in the Netherlands. It’s officially a holiday, but only a day off once every five years (the next time is in 2025). Festivals and concerts are held all over the country.

The evening before, on May 4th, is Remembrance Day, when the entire country has two minutes of silence at 8:00 PM to honor the victims of World War II and other conflicts. On Dam Square in Amsterdam, a large ceremony is held, attended by the king and queen.

Ascension Day and Pentecost| Dates vary each year

Ascension Day and Pentecost are Christian holidays. Ascension Day falls 40 days after Easter, and Pentecost 50 days after Easter. Many people get the day off, so check with your Flex Manager or Job Coach if this applies to you. These are days when many Dutch people head outdoors, whether to the forest, the beach, or even furniture stores.

Sinterklaas | December 5th

Sinterklaas is a children’s celebration somewhat similar to Christmas. Saint Nicholas, or Sinterklaas, arrives in mid-November with his steamboat and helpers, called Pieten, and brings presents on December 5th. This evening, known as Pakjesavond, is celebrated with gifts and typical Dutch treats like pepernoten and speculaas. Tip: try these snacks, which can be found in every supermarket. Pro tip: the day after Sinterklaas, these treats go on sale!

Christmas | December 25th and 26th

The Netherlands celebrates both First and Second Christmas Day. Families gather for elaborate meals and often exchange gifts. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, homes and cities are decorated with lights, Christmas trees, and markets.

Fun fact: many families enjoy a tradition called gourmetten during Christmas. Using a special grill, everyone cooks small pieces of meat or vegetables in mini pans, creating their own personalized meal.

New Year’s Eve | December 31st

We close the year with lots of fireworks and a load of oliebollen—sweet, fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar, sometimes with raisins. On December 31st, you can join parties almost anywhere, from pubs to house gatherings. Good to know… the phone network tends to crash early in the evening because of all the New Year’s wishes.

Dus, welke feestdag ga jij binnenkort vieren met je vrienden of collega’s?