Public Holidays 2026 Netherlands: Overview & Guidance.

Dutch public holidays are more than just days off work; they are celebrations that bring communities together, steeped in history and cultural significance.

The Netherlands stands among the best countries in the world for technology and innovation. The country offers an excellent infrastructure, a strong treaty network as well as a business climate that is competitive. Netherlands’ tax incentives are diverse and is stimulating innovation as well as business activities.

Bank Holidays 2026 in the Netherlands

There are 11 public holidays officially recognised in the Netherlands. The Government of the Netherlands has designated the following dates as public holidays for 2026:

*Liberation day on May 5th is a public holiday. It is common practice to have this day off once every five years (e.g., 2025, 2030, 2035 etc.) but the company could decide to diverge and agree to set this day each year as a public day off.

There is no Dutch law mandating that employees must be given a day off on specific public holidays. Whether employees have a day off on public holidays will be specified in the Collectieve Labour Agreement or Employee Handbook.

Public Holidays 2026 in the Netherlands

New Year’s Day – Monday 1 January 2026

New Year’s Day in the Netherlands, known as Nieuwjaarsdag, marks the beginning of the year with a blend of festive and reflective activities. The Dutch often welcome the New Year with fireworks and celebrations that carry over from New Year’s Eve. On January 1st, many Dutch people participate in the tradition of the New Year’s Dive [Nieuwjaarsduik], where thousands plunge into the icy waters of the North Sea, particularly at Scheveningen beach. This invigorating dip is believed to bring good luck and a fresh start to the year.

Good Friday – Friday 3 April 2026

Good Friday in the Netherlands, known as Goede Vrijdag, commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This day is not an official public holiday, though most schools are closed. Some public offices are closed, and companies could decide to apply a day off.

Easter Sunday & Monday- Sunday 5 April and Monday 6 April 2026

Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and is a joyful occasion. The Dutch celebrate Easter with church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Traditional Easter foods include a Dutch paasstol; a rich bread filled with almond paste and dried fruits, and chocolate eggs.

King’s Day – Monday 27 April 2026

King’s Day, in Dutch Koningsday, celebrated on April 27th, is one of the most vibrant and eagerly anticipated holidays in the Netherlands. This national holiday honours the birthday of Dutch King Willem-Alexander. The big cities in the country transform into a sea of orange, the national colour. Festivities include outdoor concerts, street markets, and parties. Amsterdam, in particular, becomes a hub of activity, attracting visitors from around the world to join in the revelry.

Liberation Day – Tuesday 5 May 2026

Liberation Day, known as Bevrijdingsdag celebrated on May 5th, commemorates the end of the Nazi occupation during World War II. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of freedom. The Netherlands honours this day with various events, including concerts, parades, and official ceremonies. One of the most notable events is the Liberation Festival [Bevrijdingsfestival], held in multiple cities, featuring live music, performances, and speeches that emphasise the importance of freedom and human rights.

It is common practice to have this day off once every five years (e.g., 2025, 2030, 2035 etc.) but the company could decide to diverge and agree to set this day each year as a public day off.

Ascension Day – Thursday 14 May 2026

Ascension Day, in Dutch Hemelvaartsdag, is a Christian holiday observed 40 days after Easter. It marks the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. In the Netherlands, it is both a religious and public holiday. Popular traditions include early morning walks, often referred to as dauwtrappen, where people rise early to hike or bike through the countryside and enjoy the early morning dew.

Whit Sunday & Monday – Sunday 24 May and Monday 25 May 2026

Pinksteren in Dutch commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Many people use the long weekend to spend time with family, go on outings, or attend festivals. It is also a time when numerous music and arts festivals take place across the country, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Christmas Day & Boxing Day – Friday 25 December and Saturday 26 December 2026

Christmas, known as Kerstmis in the Netherlands is celebrated over two days: Christmas Day on December 25th and Boxing Day on December 26th.

The festive season begins with Sinterklaas on December 5th, a uniquely Dutch celebration that involves gift-giving and elaborate celebrations. This celebration honours Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children. The evening of December 5th, in Dutch Sinterklaasavond, is marked by gift-giving, poems, and elaborate rhyming riddles.

By Christmas, the festive spirit is in full swing. Dutch families typically celebrate with a sumptuous dinner, exchanging gifts, and spending quality time together. Boxing Day often involves visiting extended family or enjoying outdoor activities.

What Is the Biggest Dutch Holiday?

King’s Day, in Dutch Koningsday, celebrated on April 27th, is one of the most vibrant and eagerly anticipated holidays in the Netherlands. This national holiday honours the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. Amsterdam, in particular, becomes a hub of activity, attracting visitors from around the world.

More Information

• FAQs: Holiday Allowance & Paid Holidays in the Netherlands.
• Employee Leaves of Absence in the Netherlands.
• FAQs on Dutch Labour Law – Essential Answers Employment Law.