September is that lovely in-between month when Dutch summer exits stage left and autumn strolls in wearing a cosy jumper.
There’s plenty to enjoy this month, but also a few things to plan around, from transport strikes to the country’s biggest political day of the year.
Here’s what to mark on your agenda this season. 👇
1. Go apple-picking and try some apple pie
Nothing says autumn quite like wandering through an orchard with a basket in hand.
Apple picking is a wonderfully wholesome way to embrace the season, and the Netherlands has plenty of boomgaarden (orchards) ready to welcome you.
You’ll come home with fresh fruit and rosy cheeks, and probably a craving for warm apple pie.
2. Open the season with the Netherlands Philharmonic
There’s no grander way to welcome the new cultural season than an evening at the Concertgebouw, one of the world’s most beautiful concert halls.
The Netherlands Philharmonic’s festive opening night promises music that fills the room and lifts the spirit. Dress up, grab a welcome cocktail, and let the orchestra sweep you into autumn.
Even better? One lucky participant can win an “adventure seat”, right in the middle of the orchestra.
3. See the heather bloom at the Veluwe
If you’ve never seen the heide (fields of heather) in full bloom, September is your chance.
The Veluwe nature reserve transforms into a rolling carpet of colour that looks almost too pretty to be real, so don’t forget your camera.
There’s plenty to explore, so grab your walking shoes or a bike, and check out our Veluwe guide for the best things to do in the region.
4. Finally start investing (yes, really)
As the days grow shorter and the holiday season draws nearer, it’s a natural moment to plan for next year and sort out the admin you’ve been putting off, investing included.
As someone diving into investments themselves, I find autumn’s slower pace the perfect time to read up and get my head around how it all works.
It often sounds more intimidating than it is, and a good app can ease you into the basics without much fuss. Our guide to investment apps will walk you through the best options currently on the Dutch market, and the pros and cons of each.
5. Get ready for Prinsjesdag
On the third Tuesday of September (September 15 this year), the Netherlands celebrates Prinsjesdag, or Prince’s Day.
It’s when the government presents its plans and budget for the year ahead, and the king delivers a speech from the throne in The Hague.
There’s plenty of pomp, some seriously extravagant hats, and a lot of news about what might change in your taxes and benefits. Keep an eye out, because this is the day that shapes the year to come.
6. Prepare for the nationwide public transport strike
Mark Wednesday, September 9, in your calendar, because getting around will be tricky. The FNV trade union has called a strike affecting all public transport across the country, all day long.
Trains, trams, buses and regional services are all expected to grind to a halt, so plan an alternative if you rely on them.
7. And even more strikes (at Schiphol this time)
If you’re flying this month, you’ll want to plan for extra travel time.
Schiphol’s security staff have announced a series of strikes over poor working conditions, and they’re being announced only a few hours in advance, which makes them hard to plan around.
At the very least, expect longer queues and general chaos at security.
8. Honour the fallen at Market Garden commemorations
September also marks the anniversary of Operation Market Garden, the huge Allied airborne operation of the Second World War that swept through the southern Netherlands in 1944.
Around September 19, commemorations take place across the region, particularly around Arnhem and Nijmegen, to honour those who fought and fell.
It’s a moving reminder of the country’s wartime history and the freedom that followed, and is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
9. Sample some Dutch wine in Limburg
Here’s one that surprises most internationals: the Netherlands makes wine, and September is when the wijngaarden (vineyards) come alive.
Down in the rolling hills of South Limburg, which is home to about a third of the country’s vineyards, the grape harvest runs from mid-September into October.
Many wineries mark the season with tastings, walks and cycle routes through the vines, so you can sip a crisp Dutch white with a view that looks more like Burgundy than the flat, grey Netherlands you’re used to.
And there you have it! September really is a month of small joys and beautiful scenery, plus a few things worth keeping an eye on.
What are you most looking forward to this month in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments.
