Second Christmas Day 2025 in the Netherlands

Second Christmas Day, or Tweede Kerstdag, is celebrated on December 26th in the Netherlands as an extension of Christmas Day. It is a public holiday often spent visiting family, enjoying festive meals, or relaxing with outings like shopping or nature walks.

Second Christmas Day: A Public Holiday?

Second Christmas Day is a nationwide public holiday in the Netherlands. Most schools, offices, and businesses remain closed, allowing people to extend their Christmas celebrations with family visits, festive meals, or leisurely outings. In the Netherlands, a day off or additional benefits for working on public holidays depend on employment contracts or CAO agreements.

Second Christmas Day

Second Christmas Day, known as Tweede Kerstdag in the Netherlands, has historical roots in European traditions where Christmas celebrations extended over several days. Historically, the days following Christmas Day were dedicated to feasting, visiting family, and giving back to the community, particularly for those who worked on Christmas Day to serve others. Over time, December 26th became an established holiday in many European countries, including the Netherlands, as a way to continue the festivities and create additional time for family and relaxation.

Observance on Second Christmas Day in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, Second Christmas Day is a public holiday and a relaxed extension of Christmas Day. Many people use the day to visit family members they couldn't see on December 25th, making it a time for socializing and sharing meals. Dining out is a popular activity on this day, with many restaurants offering special holiday menus. Others take the opportunity to go shopping, as some stores hold post-Christmas sales, or enjoy outdoor activities like nature walks to appreciate the winter season.

The day is less formal than Christmas Day, focusing on unwinding and enjoying quality time with loved ones. For those who spent Christmas Day at home, Second Christmas Day offers the chance to visit attractions such as museums or participate in local events. In some regions, traditions such as lighting bonfires or organizing community gatherings are also observed.

The importance of Second Christmas Day lies in its role as a bridge between the festive joy of Christmas and the return to regular routines. It provides extra time for family, leisure, and reflection, making it a cherished part of the holiday season. In the Netherlands, Second Christmas Day blends historical customs with modern practices, offering a meaningful and enjoyable continuation of the Christmas celebrations.

Second Christmas Day Observances