Christmas History

Christmas is a widely observed holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, serving both as a religious celebration and a widespread cultural phenomenon. Its observance incorporates essential aspects such as attending church services, sharing meals with family and friends, and giving and receiving gifts. Other common traditions include decorating homes with holiday lights, Christmas trees, and handcrafted ornaments. It is also an occasion renowned for philanthropy, with numerous acts of kindness and generosity performed in the season's spirit.

The Netherlands has a rich Christmas observance history, influenced by a fusion of Christian traditions and local legends. One distinctive feature that sets the Dutch apart is the celebration of 'Sinterklaas,' Saint Nicholas Day, on December 5. According to Dutch folklore, Sinterklaas arrives from Spain by steamship, bringing gifts for children. This event is separate from Christmas Day, providing Dutch children an extra day of festivities and gifts. Christmas in the Netherlands is also recognized for its choir concerts and Christmas markets, providing ample entertainment and holiday spirit for locals and tourists.

Christmas is a two-day event in the Netherlands, observed on December 25 (Eerste Kerstdag or 'first Christmas Day') and December 26 (Tweede Kerstdag or 'second Christmas Day'). These days are public holidays, and most people are off work. The celebration includes attending midnight mass on Christmas Eve and a festive familial dinner on Christmas Day. The second Christmas Day is usually a quieter, more intimate day spent with immediate family. In recent years, using this second day for recreational outings or visiting Christmas markets has become increasingly popular.

Top 2 Facts for 2026 Christmas in Netherlands

• The Dutch are credited with popularizing the Christmas tree tradition in the 19th century, thanks to German and Scandinavian influences. In the 17th century, the Dutch brought the custom of decorating homes with greenery and candles during Christmas to the New World (colonial America).
• A popular Dutch Christmas dinner tradition is 'gourmetten,' where families gather around a tabletop grill to cook small portions of meat, vegetables, and other ingredients, similar to fondue or raclette. It encourages eating together and enjoying everyone's company.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Christmas

Top things to do in Netherlands for Christmas

• Attend a Christmas Eve service at a local church. Many churches offer midnight mass. Alternately, watch the Pope's annual Christmas eve service broadcast live from the Vatican.
• Many churches hold pageants for children that involve playing the parts of the nativity scene. Go to one of these events or put up a nativity scene in your home.
• Prepare some traditional Dutch Christmas treats like kerstkransjes (Christmas wreath cookies), banketstaaf (a log-shaped pastry filled with almond paste), or oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls covered in powdered sugar).
• Dutch people often attend special Christmas services at local churches to commemorate the religious aspect of the holiday.