The Netherlands has a rich cultural heritage reflected in its public holidays, blending historical events, religious observances, and national celebrations. In 2025, these holidays offer a variety of experiences, from reflective and solemn to joyful and festive. Each holiday provides a unique opportunity to understand Dutch traditions and values, whether it’s the jubilant celebrations of King’s Day or the peaceful reflection on Good Friday.
This guide explores the significance of each public holiday in the Netherlands for 2025, offering insights into how they are celebrated and why they hold special meaning for the Dutch people.
Public Holidays in Netherlands In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in netherlands in 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Easter Sunday | Apr 20, 2025 | Sunday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| King’s Day | Apr 26, 2025 | Saturday |
| Liberation Day | May 05, 2025 | Monday |
| Ascension Day | May 29, 2025 | Thursday |
| Whit Sunday | Jun 08, 2025 | Sunday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| Boxing Day | Dec 26, 2025 | Friday |
| Know more: Public Holidays in Nepal In 2025 |
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2025
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1, is a public holiday in the Netherlands, marking the start of the new year. This day is often seen as a time for new beginnings and fresh starts. Traditionally, people in the Netherlands celebrate New Year’s Eve with family and friends, enjoying special foods, drinks, and fireworks. As the clock strikes midnight, the skies light up with vibrant displays of fireworks, symbolizing the joy and hope for the year ahead.
Overall, New Year’s Day in the Netherlands is a day filled with hope, joy, and togetherness. It is a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to new opportunities and experiences in the year to come. Whether through taking a chilly dip in the sea or enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, the Dutch welcome the new year with enthusiasm and positivity.
Good Friday – April 18, 2025
Good Friday, observed on April 18, 2025, is a significant public holiday in the Netherlands, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is a day of solemn reflection and commemoration for many Christians. Unlike some other public holidays, Good Friday is not celebrated with festivities but rather with a quiet and contemplative spirit.
In the Netherlands, Good Friday is a day when many people attend church services. These services are often solemn and reflective, focusing on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Hymns, prayers, and readings from the Bible form a central part of these services. The tone is somber, with many services incorporating moments of silence and reflection.
In summary, Good Friday in the Netherlands is a day of quiet reflection and religious observance. It is a time for attending church services, spending time with family, and preparing for the joyous celebrations of Easter. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Jesus Christ and the hope and renewal that Easter brings.
Easter Sunday – April 20, 2025
Easter Sunday, falling on April 20, 2025, is one of the most important Christian holidays celebrated in the Netherlands and around the world. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is a foundational event in Christian belief. This day is marked by joy, celebration, and various religious and cultural traditions.
In the Netherlands, Easter Sunday begins with church services, where the faithful gather to celebrate the resurrection. These services are often filled with uplifting hymns, prayers, and readings from the Bible that recount the resurrection story. Churches are beautifully decorated with flowers, particularly lilies, which symbolize purity and new life.
In essence, Easter Sunday in the Netherlands is a day of joy, renewal, and togetherness. It combines religious observance with festive traditions, creating a special time for families and communities to come together. Whether through attending church services, sharing a meal, or participating in egg hunts, the Dutch celebrate Easter with enthusiasm and a sense of hope for the future.
Easter Monday – April 21, 2025
Easter Monday, observed on April 21, 2025, is a public holiday in the Netherlands, following the joyous celebrations of Easter Sunday. It is a day of continued celebration and relaxation, offering a chance for families and friends to spend time together and enjoy the spring season.
In the Netherlands, Easter Monday, known as “Tweede Paasdag” (Second Easter Day), is marked by various traditions and activities. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities and family outings. Parks, nature reserves, and recreational areas are popular destinations, as the weather in April is often mild and pleasant.
Overall, Easter Monday in the Netherlands is a day of relaxation, enjoyment, and togetherness. It extends the festive spirit of Easter Sunday, providing an opportunity for people to unwind and appreciate the beauty of spring. Whether through visiting gardens, sharing meals, or participating in local traditions, the Dutch embrace Easter Monday as a special time to connect with loved ones and nature.
King’s Day – April 26, 2025
King’s Day, celebrated on April 26, 2025, is one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated public holidays in the Netherlands. This day honors the birthday of King Willem-Alexander and is marked by nationwide festivities, parades, and a sea of orange—the national color.
The origins of King’s Day date back to 1885, when it was first celebrated as Princess’s Day in honor of Princess Wilhelmina. Over the years, the holiday evolved, and after King Willem-Alexander ascended the throne in 2013, the date was set to April 27, his birthday. However, in 2025, the celebrations will take place on April 26, as April 27 falls on a Sunday.
In summary, King’s Day in the Netherlands is a joyous and colorful celebration of the Dutch monarchy and national pride. It is a day filled with community spirit, festivities, and the iconic color orange. Whether through participating in a “vrijmarkt,” attending a concert, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, King’s Day is a unique and cherished holiday that brings the Dutch people together in celebration.
Liberation Day – May 5, 2025
Liberation Day, observed on May 5, 2025, is a significant public holiday in the Netherlands, commemorating the liberation of the country from Nazi occupation during World War II. This day marks the end of five years of occupation and celebrates freedom, democracy, and human rights.
The origins of Liberation Day date back to May 5, 1945, when Canadian forces, along with other Allied troops, liberated the Netherlands. This event brought an end to a period of immense suffering, hardship, and resistance. Liberation Day is a time to remember and honor the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians who fought for freedom.
In essence, Liberation Day in the Netherlands is a powerful celebration of freedom and a tribute to those who fought for it. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and community spirit, highlighting the enduring importance of liberty and human rights.
Ascension Day – May 29, 2025
Ascension Day, celebrated on May 29, 2025, is a significant Christian holiday in the Netherlands, marking the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. This event is said to have occurred 40 days after Easter Sunday, following Christ’s resurrection. Ascension Day is a day of religious observance and reflection, commemorating the moment when Jesus was taken up into heaven in the presence of his disciples.
In the Netherlands, Ascension Day, known as “Hemelvaartsdag,” is a public holiday, and many businesses, schools, and offices are closed. This provides an opportunity for people to attend church services and spend time with family and friends. Church services on Ascension Day often include special hymns, prayers, and readings from the Bible that recount the story of Jesus’ ascension.
In summary, Ascension Day in the Netherlands is a day of religious significance, outdoor activities, and community traditions. It commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ and offers an opportunity for people to come together in reflection and celebration. Whether through attending church services, enjoying nature, or participating in local customs, the Dutch observe Ascension Day with a blend of spirituality and festivity.
Whit Sunday – June 8, 2025
Whit Sunday, also known as Pentecost, is celebrated on June 8, 2025, in the Netherlands. This Christian holiday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, as described in the New Testament. Pentecost occurs 50 days after Easter Sunday and is considered the “birthday” of the Christian Church, marking the beginning of its mission to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In the Netherlands, Whit Sunday, known as “Pinksteren,” is a public holiday. It is a time for church services, family gatherings, and various cultural and community activities. Churches are often decorated with flowers and greenery, symbolizing the renewal and growth of the Christian faith.
In essence, Whit Sunday in the Netherlands is a day of religious observance, outdoor activities, and community celebrations. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Christian Church, while also providing an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy the beauty of spring. Whether through attending church services, participating in local traditions, or spending time with family, the Dutch celebrate Whit Sunday with a blend of spirituality and festivity.
Whit Monday – June 9, 2025
Whit Monday, observed on June 9, 2025, is a public holiday in the Netherlands, following the celebrations of Whit Sunday or Pentecost. This day, also known as “Tweede Pinksterdag” (Second Pentecost Day), extends the festivities of Pentecost, providing an additional day for reflection, relaxation, and community activities.
In the Netherlands, Whit Monday is marked by various traditions and customs. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to spend time with family and friends, enjoying outdoor activities and leisurely pursuits. Parks, nature reserves, and recreational areas are popular destinations, as the weather in June is often pleasant and conducive to outdoor fun.
In summary, Whit Monday in the Netherlands is a day of continued celebration and relaxation. It extends the festive spirit of Pentecost, offering an opportunity for people to connect with family, friends, and their communities. Whether through attending church services, participating in local events, or enjoying the great outdoors, the Dutch embrace Whit Monday as a special time to appreciate the blessings of spring and the joy of togetherness.
Christmas Day – December 25, 2025
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25, is one of the most cherished public holidays in the Netherlands and around the world. This day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is marked by religious observance, festive traditions, and a spirit of goodwill and togetherness.
Christmas markets are another beloved tradition in the Netherlands. These markets, often set up in town squares, feature stalls selling festive foods, crafts, and decorations. The aroma of mulled wine, hot chocolate, and freshly baked goods fills the air, creating a magical atmosphere. Ice skating rinks, carousels, and other attractions add to the festive cheer.
Overall, Christmas Day in the Netherlands is a day of joy, reflection, and togetherness. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, enjoy the company of loved ones, and partake in festive traditions. Whether through attending church services, sharing a meal, or giving back to the community, the Dutch embrace Christmas with warmth and enthusiasm, making it a truly special holiday.
Boxing Day – December 26, 2025
Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, is a public holiday in the Netherlands, known as “Tweede Kerstdag” (Second Christmas Day). It follows the festive celebrations of Christmas Day and provides an additional day for family gatherings, relaxation, and continued enjoyment of the holiday season.
In the Netherlands, Boxing Day is often spent with family and friends, enjoying leisurely activities and festive meals. It is a time to unwind after the busy preparations and celebrations of Christmas Day. Many people take advantage of the day off to visit relatives, go for walks, or participate in various recreational activities.
In summary, Boxing Day in the Netherlands is a day of continued celebration and relaxation. It extends the festive spirit of Christmas, providing an opportunity for people to spend time with loved ones and enjoy leisurely activities. Whether through visiting Christmas markets, participating in outdoor activities, or simply relaxing at home, the Dutch embrace Boxing Day as a special time to reflect on the joys of the holiday season.