Working and living in the Netherlands is not only about professional responsibilities but also an opportunity to discover new customs and culture. The upcoming Christmas season is a perfect moment to better understand how this special time is celebrated by the people of the Netherlands.
If you work abroad or plan to travel for work through SBA Flex, it’s worth knowing how the Dutch celebrate the Christmas period and which traditions are most important to them.
How do the Dutch spend Christmas Eve?
Christmas Eve (December 24th) is not an official holiday in the Netherlands.
For many Dutch people, it is a normal working day, although in the evening they meet with their loved ones, have dinner together, and prepare their homes for Christmas.
Christmas traditions in the Netherlands
There are several characteristic customs in Dutch homes that distinguish their Christmas celebrations.
1. Gourmetten – table-top grilling
This is one of the most popular traditions. An electric grill is placed on the table, and everyone prepares their own small dishes: meat, vegetables, pancakes or mini-omelettes.
Gourmetten symbolizes spending time together and enjoying conversations over food.
2. Christmas Dinner – festive family meal
On the first and second day of Christmas, families organize festive dinners. They often serve:
- roasted meats,
- vegetable dishes,
- fish,
- desserts such as pavlova or puddings.
However, there is no single mandatory list of dishes – each household has its own preferences.
3. Christmas decorations and lights
Dutch homes and streets stand out with impressive lighting displays. Light decorations in windows are very popular, and cities organize Christmas markets and light shows.
4. Kerstmarkt – Christmas markets
In many cities, such as Amsterdam, Utrecht or Maastricht, Christmas markets take place where you can buy handicrafts, sweets, decorations or enjoy ice skating.
How do people working in the Netherlands spend Christmas?
Many workers employed through SBA Flex choose to return home for Christmas. However, more and more people decide to stay in the Netherlands due to work obligations or the desire to experience a new culture.
During this time, employment agencies, companies and local communities often organize festive gatherings, dinners or small gifts for employees.
This is a great way to feel the magic of Christmas even when far from home.
Is the second day of Christmas celebrated in the Netherlands?
Yes, December 26th, known as Tweede Kerstdag, is a public holiday. Many families visit friends, go for walks, visit restaurants or take advantage of post-Christmas sales.
Christmas in the Netherlands with SBA Flex
Working in the Netherlands through SBA Flex means you can count on coordinator support, comfortable accommodation and stable working conditions even during the holiday season.
This makes it easier to organize your free time, meet with friends or prepare your own traditional Christmas Eve dinner.
