Sinterklaas is one holiday where the Dutch go all out on big celebrations and exciting traditions.  While the youngsters sit their shoes under the chimney to receive chocoladeletters (chocolate letters) and other sweet treats, the adults can celebrate the holiday by giving out tailored gifts or writing poems. You’ll find the popular kruidnoten and pepernoten […]

Slowly but surely, 2023 is coming to an end. That means it's time to wrap up those New Year's resolutions you had, like learning Nederlands!  Well, why not come together and share some laughs with other internationals — all while taking your Dutch skills to the next level? 🚀 Sound good? Dutch Brainwash makes it possible! […]

Since Sinterklaas has already dropped off his presents on December 5, the Kerstavond is not much of a reason to celebrate. Pretty much a regular day, the Dutchies may spend it having dinner with family and friends, or simply enjoying the general merriment over the holidays. Don’t be surprised if you’re expected to show up […]

Also known as the first day of Christmas in the Netherlands, Christmas Day is usually celebrated with the family. Don’t expect to see a turkey dinner or any Christmas pudding. The Dutch traditionally eat gourmetten (an assortment of grilled meats and veg). Presents are exchanged, drinks are drunk, and general Christmas merriment is also in […]

Boxing Day is for lounging around and eating leftover turkey, right? Not in the Netherlands. Unlike in most cultures, the Second Day of Christmas is a big deal to the Dutch —  just as important as December 25. You will typically visit the other side of the family than who you spent Christmas Day with. […]

The Dutch like to bring the New Year in with a bang — literally. Throughout the day, you can hear fireworks being set off left, right and centre. People also flock to The Hague to light bonfires on the Scheveningen shores. Dutch traditions also include eating sweet treats such as oliebollen and apple flap. READ […]

After a night of drinking, fireworks and stuffing yourself with oliebollen, the Dutch like to take it easy on New Year’s Day by jumping into the sea. As if this nieuwjaarsduik wasn’t daring enough, they do it fully nude — except for an orange hat. 

Valentine’s Day is not widely celebrated in the Netherlands, but it has gained some popularity in recent years. Flowers, chocolate, and valentines won’t go amiss if you buy them for your Dutch sweetheart but don’t expect them to make a big deal out of the day.  https://dutchreview.com/expat/valentines-day-in-the-netherlands/

Are you thinking of buying a house in the Netherlands? Then grab your calendar and circle this date: January 25, 2024.  Why? Because it's time to get all your burning questions about buying a house answered. On Thursday, January 25 at 19:00, you can learn all about the process of buying a house in the […]

Want to speak Dutch with Dutch people (who always speak English back to you)? Considering taking a Dutch language course but you don’t know if it’s the right thing for you? Well, how about a free trial lesson? Koentact wants to show you what it’s like to “Learn Dutch the fun way.” This is why […]