Dutch Holidays

National Holidays in the Netherlands

National holidays in the Netherlands are a vibrant testament to the country’s history and cultural identity. On King’s Day (Koningsdag), celebrated on April 27, the nation transforms into a lively orange fest, featuring street markets, music, and festivities across the country. Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag), observed on May 5, commemorates the end of WWII in the Netherlands. It’s marked by events celebrating freedom and democracy, although it’s not a standard day off for everyone; the entitlement depends on your employment contract.

Public Holidays in the Netherlands

The Netherlands observes seven official (mostly religious) public holidays, along with several non-official ones. These days, historically and religiously significant, bring families and communities together for celebration and reflection.

Non-Official Holidays

Not every holiday is officially recognized with a day off. Sinterklaas, Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking), and New Year’s Eve (Oudejaarsavond) are celebrated widely, with Sinterklaas being particularly grand, and Remembrance Day dedicated to commemorating the fallen. These occasions enrich the Dutch holiday landscape with traditions and memories.

Do You Get a Day Off?

Not all holidays automatically grant a day off in the Netherlands; it often depends on your collective labor agreement (CAO). Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) and Liberation Day, for example, are not guaranteed days off for everyone. This highlights the importance of consulting with your employer about holiday entitlements.

Overview of the Dutch Holidays in 2024

Fortunately there are quite some days that are considered to be a Holiday – and therefore work is not required. 

School Holidays

For those moving to the Netherlands with family, understanding the school holiday schedule is essential. The Dutch school year includes breaks in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, staggered by region to manage tourism and travel. These breaks offer perfect opportunities for family outings or exploring the scenic and cultural beauties of the Netherlands.

Typical Dutch Activities on Public Holidays

Dutch public holidays are not just days off but opportunities to dive into the country’s culture and traditions. The New Year’s Dive (Nieuwjaarsduik), Prinsjesdag, and possibly celebrating Carnival are just a few examples of how the Dutch make these holidays uniquely theirs. From the orange craze of King’s Day to the solemnity of Remembrance Day and the family fun during Easter, every holiday has its own flavor of celebration.

Looking for a Job Now?

Exploring job opportunities in the Netherlands during these festive times? Work in Holland offers a wide range of vacancies across different locations, such as jobs in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and different industries, such as welding jobs and technical jobs in the Netherlands.

Contact us for more information and let’s find your place in the vibrant Dutch work landscape!