Holiday Traditions of The Netherlands

"Merry Christmas"

Holiday Traditions in the Netherlands

Christmas in the Netherlands is a joyful religious holiday when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The Christmas story comes from the Bible, where an angel appeared to shepherds, telling them that a Savior had been born to Mary and Joseph in a stable in Bethlehem. Three Wise Men from the East, known as the Magi, followed a star that led them to baby Jesus, to whom they presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Sinterklaas: The Dutch Santa Claus

In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus, plays a central role in the festive season. Celebrated on December 5th, the evening before St. Nicholas' Day, this is when Sinterklaas visits children and leaves gifts. The Dutch Sinterklaas is an older, kindly man with a red cloak and white beard who brings joy to families in the colder months. Children place their shoes by the fireplace or door in hopes that Sinterklaas will leave small treats such as candy or toys.

The Origins of Santa Claus

The figure of Santa Claus, as known today in the United States, evolved from Sinterklaas, introduced to the country by Dutch settlers. Over time, Santa Claus took shape as a jolly figure with a white beard, dressed in a red suit, delivering gifts to children around the world. Despite his transformation into a more commercial figure, Santa Claus and Sinterklaas both remain spirits of giving, rooted in Christian traditions.

Christmas Cards

Sending Christmas cards is another important custom in the Netherlands. Families and friends exchange cards to express the sentiments of the season. Some cards are religious, while others are more secular. Early December is when people start sending cards, and the Dutch postal service sees a significant increase in mail volume as people send their well-wishes across the country.

Home for the Holidays

Being home for Christmas is a cherished tradition in the Netherlands. Families gather to celebrate the holiday, decorating their homes with lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes. The Christmas meal is a special time, often featuring traditional dishes like roast meat, potatoes, and hearty winter vegetables. Many families also attend church services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, with carol singing and prayers focused on the birth of Christ.

Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day

In the Netherlands, Christmas is celebrated over two days: First Christmas Day on December 25th and Second Christmas Day on December 26th, known as "Tweede Kerstdag." While Christmas Day is more religious, spent with family and attending church services, Tweede Kerstdag is more relaxed and often includes outings, visiting extended family, or shopping.

The Spirit of Giving

Though modern commercialization has influenced Christmas celebrations, the Dutch remain committed to the holiday’s original spirit of sharing and giving. Charitable organizations, like the Salvation Army, often collect donations during the season, reminding people to help those less fortunate. The season is a time for generosity, reflecting the core message of Christmas.

Holiday Traditions in the Netherlands

Video by Richard Cravens

Traditional Dutch Holiday Recipes

During the festive season in the Netherlands, several traditional dishes are prepared and enjoyed with family and friends. These recipes are deeply rooted in Dutch culinary culture and are perfect for celebrating Sinterklaas, Christmas, and the New Year. Here are a few authentic Dutch holiday recipes:

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1. Speculaas (Spiced Shortcrust Cookies)

Speculaas is a traditional Dutch spiced shortcrust cookie that is especially popular during the Sinterklaas and Christmas season. The cookies are flavored with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and are often shaped in festive designs.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Add the milk and combine until smooth.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out festive shapes with cookie cutters and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

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2. Kerststol (Dutch Christmas Bread)

Kerststol is a traditional Dutch Christmas bread filled with dried fruit and often marzipan. It is served during Christmas breakfast or as part of a festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, currants, candied peel)
• 1/2 cup almond paste or marzipan
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs, and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Gradually knead in the dried fruit.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Place the almond paste or marzipan down the center of the dough and fold the dough over to enclose it.
6. Transfer the loaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust the cooled bread with powdered sugar before serving.

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3. Oliebollen (Dutch Doughnuts)

Oliebollen are traditional Dutch doughnuts often enjoyed on New Year’s Eve. They are deep-fried balls of dough, sometimes filled with raisins or currants, and dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and the beaten egg, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If using raisins or currants, fold them into the dough.
3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon, drop small scoops of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches.
5. Fry each oliebollen for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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4. Advocaat (Dutch Eggnog)

Advocaat is a rich, creamy Dutch drink made with eggs, sugar, and brandy. It’s similar to eggnog and is often enjoyed during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 8 egg yolks
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup brandy
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream (for topping)

Instructions:

1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and slowly whisk in the brandy.
3. Continue whisking the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Let the advocaat cool slightly, then serve in small glasses topped with whipped cream.

These traditional Dutch holiday recipes bring warmth and joy to festive celebrations. Whether it's enjoying a sweet treat like speculaas or a glass of advocaat, these dishes are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

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