What Are Some Lesser-Known Holidays the Dutch (Might) Celebrate?
We have all heard of Sinterklaas and King’s Day; however, a rich culture also means a rich history of interesting and sometimes strange holidays or national days. Which one will you celebrate?
Carnival in the Netherlands
Carnival is a vibrant and lively event celebrated primarily in the Catholic provinces of Brabant and Limburg. Held between January 6 and "Fat Tuesday" (Mardi Gras), this festival precedes Lent and features colourful parades, elaborate costumes, music competitions, and carnival costume contests. Maastricht and Den Bosch are known for their grand celebrations, with the latter city even renaming itself Uteldonk for the festivities.
Flower Festival and Parade
In April, the Netherlands welcomes spring with the Flower Festival, showcasing stunning floral displays. The Flower Parade (Bloemen Corso) kicks off on the third Saturday of April, featuring cars decorated with intricate flower compositions. The parade ends at Keukenhof Park, renowned for its beautiful gardens and flower shows.
Queen's Day (Konninginnedag)
Celebrated on April 30, Queen's Day is a national holiday marked by parades, celebrations, and festivals. Known as the Day of National Unity, people dress in orange, the colour of the royal family. Amsterdam becomes the centre of festivities, with vibrant music, street performances, and a lively free market where VAT is abolished for the day.
Cyclist's Day
On the second Saturday of May, the Dutch celebrate their love for cycling with Cyclist's Day. A significant portion of the population takes to their bikes, participating in races and rides across the country. The day highlights the importance of cycling in Dutch culture, emphasising freedom and the joy of riding.
Liberation Day
Held on May 5, Liberation Day commemorates the end of the German occupation during World War II. The day features various events, concerts, and public festivities, culminating in a grand concert in Amsterdam attended by the royal family. It is preceded by Remembrance Day on May 4, honouring the victims of World War II.
National Miller's Day
On May 11, National Miller's Day celebrates the Netherlands' milling heritage. Around 600 windmills are open to the public, offering tours and demonstrations. Coinciding with National Cycling Day, the event highlights the historical importance of windmills in managing water levels and aiding agriculture.
Pinkpop Rock Music Festival
Held in June, the Pinkpop Festival in Landgraaf is one of the oldest and most famous rock music festivals in the Netherlands. Since 1970, it has attracted millions of music lovers and hosted renowned artists like The Rolling Stones, Metallica, and U2. The festival features three days of performances across multiple stages, drawing over 60,000 attendees daily.
Vlaggetjesdag
Celebrated in mid-June, Vlaggetjesdag marks the arrival of new herring. In the Scheveningen harbour, thousands gather to enjoy shanty songs, traditional crafts, and children’s games, alongside the fresh "Hollandse Nieuwe" herring.
Burendag (Neighbourhood Day)
On the fourth Saturday in September, Burendag encourages neighbours to get to know each other better through social gatherings and community activities. It promotes social cohesion and the importance of neighbourhood bonds.
Prinsjesdag (Prince’s Day)
Held on the third Tuesday of September, Prinsjesdag marks Budget Day and the official opening of the parliamentary year. The King delivers a speech outlining the government's plans for the year, a tradition that plays a significant role in Dutch political culture. In 2024, Prinsjesdag will be on September 17.
