5 Dutch holidays and celebrations

King's Day

King's Day, or Koningsdag, is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on the 27th of April. This holiday commemorates the birthday of King Willem-Alexander and is a day filled with vibrant orange decorations and festivities. People across the country dress in orange clothing, wave the Dutch flag, and participate in various events such as flea markets, concerts, and parades. Children often sell toys and homemade treats on the streets, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit.

Sinterklaas

Sinterklaas is a beloved Dutch tradition celebrated on the 5th of December. The holiday revolves around St. Nicholas, who brings gifts to children in the Netherlands. Sinterklaas arrives in the country from Spain in mid-November on a steamboat, accompanied by his helpers known as Zwarte Piet (Black Pete). On the eve of Sinterklaas, children leave out their shoes by the fireplace or window, along with a carrot or hay for Sinterklaas's horse. In return, Sinterklaas leaves small gifts and treats in the shoes.

Christmas

Christmas is another festive time in the Netherlands, celebrated on the 25th and 26th of December. Dutch Christmas traditions include decorating the home with lights and Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and enjoying special holiday foods. A popular Christmas treat in the Netherlands is kerststol, a sweet bread filled with dried fruits and almonds. Families gather together for elaborate meals on Christmas Day, often featuring dishes like gourmetten (table grilling) or gourmet (small pans for cooking individual ingredients).

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve, or Oud en Nieuw, is a lively celebration in the Netherlands to ring in the new year. People typically gather with family and friends to enjoy fireworks displays, oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls), and champagne. The Dutch tradition of carbidschieten involves igniting carbide in a milk churn to create loud bangs, adding to the festive atmosphere. In larger cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, fireworks shows light up the sky at midnight as the clock strikes twelve.

Easter

Easter, or Pasen, is a Christian holiday celebrated in the Netherlands with various traditions and customs. Dutch people decorate eggs and participate in egg hunts, where children search for hidden eggs in gardens or parks. Hot cross buns, known as paasstol, are a popular Easter treat, filled with dried fruits and marzipan. Families come together for special Easter brunches or dinners, often featuring dishes like asparagus soup and lamb. The Easter Monday tradition of eiergooien involves tossing raw eggs back and forth without breaking them, symbolizing the arrival of spring.

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