Planning your vacations or looking to maximize your long weekends? Understanding public holidays in the Netherlands can help you make the most of your time off. Whether you’re a resident or planning a visit, this guide provides a detailed overview of Dutch public holidays in 2025 and 2026.
Public Holidays in the Netherlands in 2025
New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag) – Wednesday, 1 January 2025
The year starts with New Year’s Day, a national holiday in the Netherlands, celebrated with fireworks, gatherings, and traditional New Year’s dives into the North Sea.
Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) – Friday, 18 April 2025
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. While not an official public holiday for everyone, many schools and government offices are closed.
Easter Sunday & Monday (Pasen) – Sunday & Monday, 20-21 April 2025
Easter is widely celebrated with family gatherings, egg hunts, and festive meals. Easter Monday is an official public holiday.
King’s Day (Koningsdag) – Sunday, 27 April 2025
King’s Day is one of the most anticipated celebrations in the Netherlands, with nationwide street markets, parties, and a sea of orange clothing to honor the King’s birthday.
Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) – Monday, 5 May 2025 (Mandatory holiday in 2025)
Bevrijdingsdag commemorates the end of World War II. It is an official day off only every five years, and 2025 is one of those years.
Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag) – Thursday, 29 May 2025
Falling 40 days after Easter, this Christian holiday often creates an opportunity for a long weekend getaway.
Pentecost (Pinksteren) – Sunday & Monday, 8-9 June 2025
Pentecost, celebrated seven weeks after Easter, includes both Sunday and Monday as public holidays.
Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag) & Boxing Day (Tweede Kerstdag) – Thursday & Friday, 25-26 December 2025
Christmas in the Netherlands is a festive time spent with family, featuring traditional meals and celebrations over two consecutive holidays.
Public Holidays in the Netherlands in 2026
New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag) – Thursday, 1 January 2026
A public holiday marked by celebrations, fireworks, and social gatherings.
Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) – Friday, 3 April 2026
While not a national holiday for all, it is observed by schools and some businesses.
Easter Sunday & Monday (Pasen) – Sunday & Monday, 5-6 April 2026
Easter weekend in 2026 provides another great opportunity for travel or relaxation.
King’s Day (Koningsdag) – Monday, 27 April 2026
King’s Day celebrations will again fill the streets with orange-colored festivities and markets.
Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) – Tuesday, 5 May 2026 (Not a mandatory holiday)
While officially recognized, not everyone gets a day off in 2026.
Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag) – Thursday, 14 May 2026
Many people take Friday off to create an extended weekend.
Pentecost (Pinksteren) – Sunday & Monday, 24-25 May 2026
Another long weekend for relaxation, family time, or travel.
Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag) & Boxing Day (Tweede Kerstdag) – Friday & Saturday, 25-26 December 2026
The holiday season brings festive joy, markets, and gatherings throughout the country.
Maximizing Your Holidays in 2025 and 2026
For those looking to extend their vacations, strategic planning around long weekends and holidays is key. Here are some top tips:
- Combine Ascension Day with a Friday off for a four-day weekend.
- Plan early for King’s Day and Christmas as these are peak travel times.
- Use Easter Monday and Pentecost Monday to your advantage for an extra day off.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local planning your holidays or a visitor looking to experience Dutch culture, knowing the public holidays in advance can help you make the most of your time. Make sure to book accommodations early, as some of these dates see high travel demand.
Looking for more travel and holiday tips in the Netherlands? Stay tuned for more expert guides!