The final month of 2025 has arrived, which means the Netherlands is bursting with festive markets, glowing lights, cosy traditions, and smart end-of-year tasks you’ll be glad you didn’t postpone.
This month is the perfect mix of seasonal outings and practical life admin for internationals.
From Sinterklaas treats to getting your pension sorted, here’s your all-in-one guide to enjoying and surviving a cold Dutch December.
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1. Visit a Dutch Christmas market 🌲
There’s nothing more wintry than wandering through a Dutch Christmas market — wooden stalls, warm drinks, twinkling lights, and more cheese than is medically advisable.
These markets pop up across the country, from tiny neighbourhood squares to the big classics. It’s a great way to soak up some gezelligheid.
👉 16 best Christmas markets in and near the Netherlands 2026
2. Celebrate Sinterklaas like a local 🧑🎄
Early December brings Sinterklaas, a cultural moment packed with sweets, songs, and chaotic gift-giving traditions.
Learn why Dutch kids adore this time of year, and why adults mysteriously lose all self-control around chocolate letters.
👉 Sinterklaas for expats: all the Dutch you need to make it through the holiday season
3. Set up your savings account before the new year 💰
Now is the perfect moment to compare interest rates and finally organise your savings. Banks update rates at the end of the year, and a well-picked account can make a surprising difference next year.
(Pro-tip: Check out a bank like Trade Republic; they’ve got high interest rates AND they’ve just launched their Dutch accounts.)
👉 Dutch savings accounts: Best interest rates in the Netherlands in 2026
4. Explore Leiden’s Winter Wonder Weken ❄️
The historic centre of Leiden is Christmas galore during the Winter Wonder Weken, offering markets, performances, and illuminated trails along its canals.
It’s one of the most charming winter experiences in South Holland.
5. Sign up for a Dutch course 🇳🇱
The upcoming new year is the perfect time to commit to improving your Nederlands.
Whether you prefer private coaching or group classes, there are excellent options to boost your confidence for 2026.
👉 Supercharge your Dutch in just one week with Talencoach’s immersion course, or find a Dutch language school
6. Go ice-skating at a Dutch winter rink ⛸️
Nothing says winter in the Netherlands like sliding around on the ice.
Try the rink at Museumplein, Rotterdam’s rainbow tunnel rink, or your nearest city centre pop-up. Even if your skating skills are questionable, the hot chocolate alone makes it worthwhile.
👉 Ice-skating rinks in the Netherlands: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and beyond
7. See a show at DeLaMar Theatre 🎭
If you’re looking for something special on Christmas Day, the DeLaMar Theatre in Amsterdam is hosting a one-night-only performance by a South African theatre company.
It’s a warm, cultural way to spend the evening, especially if you’re skipping the traditional Dutch gourmetten. The show offers an intimate atmosphere and a unique holiday experience right in the heart of Amsterdam.
8. Finally start investing in the Netherlands 📈
If investing has been on your to-do list, December is your chance.
Platforms are easier than ever to use, and a little preparation now sets you up for success in the coming year. We signed up with Scalable, and it’s been smooth sailing!
👉 Investing in the Netherlands: 7 great apps for getting into stocks in 2026
9. Wander through a Dutch light festival 🕯️
The Netherlands glows throughout winter thanks to spectacular light festivals in cities such as Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, and more.
These colourful light installations brighten the dark evenings and make for a perfect seasonal walk or canal cruise. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience a bit of winter magic (and learn that the Dutch are surprisingly artistic with LEDs).
👉 6 awesome light festivals in the Netherlands: what’s lit, where, and when?
10. Take a wintery day trip 🚂
Dutch cities have their own winter magic: misty canals, candlelit cafés, and quiet historic streets.
Haarlem, Utrecht, Maastricht, and Leiden are top picks for scenic walks and calm December vibes. Alternatively, you can hop over to Germany or Belgium.
👉 The perfect weekend trip from Amsterdam: How to spend two days in the Zaan region
11. Do a quick pension check 👵🏻
It’s not glamorous, but checking your Dutch pension before January is extremely smart — especially if you recently switched jobs, moved house, or want to plan ahead.
A five-minute check can save a future headache and, more importantly, you can also get a huge tax advantage for contributing money to your pension in the Netherlands. (We recommend Brand New Day!)
👉 You should be supplementing your Dutch pension: here’s why (and how to do it)
With so many festive outings and practical tasks to pick from, this month is all about balancing cosy moments with getting ahead of your 2026 goals — and making the Dutch winter feel a little warmer.
Still looking for plans? Our event listings page is filled with exhibitions, concerts, and seasonal outings for every kind of international. It’s the easiest way to keep your month full of fun.
What are you most looking forward to this month in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments!
