Christmas Day 2025 in the Netherlands

Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, is a joyful occasion marking the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Netherlands, it is a public holiday spent with family, festive meals, and often attending church services. The day is a blend of religious traditions and modern celebrations.

Christmas Day: A Public Holiday?

Christmas Day is a nationwide public holiday in the Netherlands. Most schools, offices, and businesses are closed, allowing people to celebrate with family, attend church services, and enjoy festive meals. In the Netherlands, whether employees receive a day off or additional benefits depends on their employment contract or collective labor agreement (CAO).

Christmas Day

Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, is a Christian holiday that marks the birth of Jesus Christ. Its origins date back to early Christianity, when the Church chose this date to commemorate Christ's birth, aligning it with existing winter festivals to make the celebration more inclusive. Over time, Christmas became a central event in Christian tradition, symbolizing peace, love, and hope. In the Netherlands, Christmas has evolved into a blend of religious observance and cultural customs, deeply rooted in both faith and family traditions.

Christmas Day Celebration in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, Christmas Day, known as Eerste Kerstdag, is a time for family and togetherness. Many people begin the day with a visit to church, attending Christmas services that feature hymns, prayers, and readings about the birth of Christ. Afterward, families gather for festive meals, which often include traditional dishes such as roast meats, vegetables, and desserts. Sharing a meal is an important part of the celebration, bringing loved ones together in the spirit of the holiday.

Decorations also play a key role in Dutch Christmas celebrations. Homes are adorned with lights, Christmas trees, and ornaments, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. In addition to family gatherings, some people spend the day relaxing, exchanging gifts, or enjoying Christmas-themed movies and music. Although gift-giving is more associated with Sinterklaas earlier in December, some families may still exchange small presents on Christmas Day.

The importance of Christmas Day in the Netherlands lies in its themes of love, peace, and togetherness. For Christians, it is a day to honor the birth of Jesus and reflect on His message of compassion and hope. For others, it is a meaningful time to connect with family, take a break from everyday life, and embrace the joy and warmth of the season. Christmas Day is a cherished holiday that unites people through shared traditions and a sense of community.

Christmas Day Observances