The best Dutch holidays of 2023! When Dutch people live abroad or expats with children from other countries temporarily staying in the Netherlands, it can be difficult to follow or even understand the local culture and traditions.
A great way to learn more about Dutch culture and have fun at the same time is by participating in the holidays celebrated here.
In this blog, we share some of the most fun Dutch holidays that both Dutch people abroad and expats with children in the Netherlands can celebrate. But, first, an overview of the official holidays in the Netherlands.
When are the official holidays in the Netherlands?
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Below is an overview of the official holidays in the Netherlands in 2023:
New Year’s Day: Sunday, 1 January 2023
Good Friday: Friday, 7 April 2023
Easter (first and second Easter Day): Sunday, 9 and Monday, 10 April 2023
King’s Day: Thursday, 27 April 2023
Liberation Day: Friday, 5 May 2023
Ascension Day: Thursday, 18 May 2023
Whitsun (Whit Sunday and Whit Monday): Sunday 28 and Monday 29 May 2023
Christmas (Christmas Day and Boxing Day): Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 December 2023
Apart from these being the official holidays, on which everyone is free, there is much more celebrated in the Netherlands.
Dutch for Children likes to bring a lot of Dutch Culture into the lessons where it fits. The holidays are an excellent opportunity for this. In selecting those other holidays, we look at age, relevance for the children and their parents, and connecting themes. Our selection consists of 5 hugely fun public holidays.
The 5 most fun Dutch public holidays 2023
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Koningsdag is the most fun Dutch public holiday 2023
Koningsdag is one of the Netherlands’ most colorful and lively public holidays. On 27 April, the whole country celebrates King Willem-Alexander’s birthday with various festivities. From free markets where children sell their toys to live performances and parades, there is something for everyone. Children can dress in orange, the national color, and enjoy games, music, and treats. See and read how we celebrate at Dutch for Children here.
Sinterklaas with presents
Sinterklaas is a traditional Dutch festival celebrated on 5 December. The celebration’s highlight is “Pakjesavond” when children receive presents from Sinterklaas. Children put their shoe in front of the fireplace and hope Sinterklaas puts something inside. It is also customary to write poems and give each other surprising presents. It is a magical time for children, full of excitement and anticipation.
Carnival 2023
Although carnival is mainly celebrated in the south of the Netherlands, Dutch people abroad and expats in the Netherlands can also participate in this vibrant celebration. Carnival is a colorful and exuberant famous festival that takes place in the week preceding Lent. Children can enjoy parades, costume parties, and special children’s events where they can collect sweets and treats. It is a festive tradition where the community comes together to dance, sing and enjoy themselves.
Liberation Day
On 5 May, the Netherlands celebrates Liberation Day to commemorate the end of World War II and celebrate freedom. It is a day full of festivities, concerts, and events nationwide. There are special activities for children, such as parades and treasure hunts, where they can learn about history and the importance of freedom. It is an excellent opportunity to reflect on freedom and show gratitude together as a family.
Children’s Book Week
During the annual Children’s Book Week, which takes place in October, children are encouraged to read and experience the magic of children’s books. It lasts for a week. Numerous activities are organized during this period to inspire children to read and stimulate their imagination. We follow the news through various websites and pick out the best online opportunities.
What the Dutch Holidays 2023 will bring
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All these holidays are great opportunities to experience Dutch culture and traditions. Whether you live in the Netherlands or abroad, celebrating these holidays with your children will undoubtedly create fun and unforgettable memories. If your child becomes a student of Dutch for Children, he won’t miss a single holiday! We pay attention to the most fun holidays linguistically and playfully. Children do home assignments, come dressed up for the camera, or read about some history of that holiday.
I want that for my child! You certainly can. Read more about the content of our language and culture lessons (NTC) via this link (in Dutch), or send us an e-mail to learn more about our language and culture lessons and the possibilities for your child.