A2 KNM: Dutch Holidays & Traditions
The Netherlands has both official public holidays (when businesses close) and cultural celebrations. Sinterklaas (December 5) is bigger than Christmas for...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
The Netherlands has both official public holidays (when businesses close) and cultural celebrations. Sinterklaas (December 5) is bigger than Christmas for gift-giving. Koningsdag (April 27) turns the whole country orange. Understanding these traditions helps you participate in Dutch society.
| Date | Holiday | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 1 | Nieuwjaarsdag | New Year's Day, public holiday |
| Apr 27 | Koningsdag | King's Day, biggest party |
| May 5 | Bevrijdingsdag | Liberation Day; paid day off depends on work agreement |
| Movable | Pasen | Easter, Sunday + Monday off |
| Movable | Hemelvaart | Ascension Day, always Thursday |
| Movable | Pinksteren | Pentecost, Sunday + Monday |
| Dec 5 | Sinterklaasavond | Gift evening, not official holiday |
| Dec 25-26 | Kerst | Christmas, two days off |
Examples
- Wat doe je met Sinterklaas?
- What do you do on Sinterklaas?
- We geven cadeautjes met een gedicht.
- We give presents with a poem.
- Op Koningsdag is er overal een vrijmarkt.
- On King's Day there are flea markets everywhere.
- Kerst vieren we met familie.
- We celebrate Christmas with family.
Study note
If Koningsdag falls on a Sunday, it's celebrated on the 26th instead. Sinterklaas gifts often come with a humorous poem poking fun at the recipient - it's meant lovingly! 'Oliebollen' are eaten at New Year's, 'pepernoten' during Sinterklaas season.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
