The Netherlands is a country known for its windmills, tulips, and of course, its world-renowned cheeses. However, there is more to this picturesque country than just these well-known sights. The Netherlands is home to a myriad of rich cultural traditions that have been practiced for centuries, making the country a hub of vibrant and diverse cultural experiences. In this article, we will explore some of the most fascinating cultural traditions that make the Netherlands a unique and fascinating destination.
Carnival
One of the most exciting cultural traditions in the Netherlands is the annual carnival celebration. Every year, thousands of Dutch residents take to the streets in colorful costumes for a week of festive parades and parties. This tradition dates back to medieval times when people would hold carnivals to celebrate the end of winter.
The Dutch carnival is celebrated in different parts of the country in unique ways. In the southern Netherlands, the carnival is called ‘Vastenavond’ meaning “Fasting Eve” in Dutch and it takes place over the weekend leading up to Ash Wednesday. The carnival includes elaborate parades with colorful floats and costumes, dancing, and singing.
Sinterklaas
Sinterklaas is a traditional Dutch holiday celebrated on December 5th. The holiday is named after Saint Nicholas, a patron saint of children. On the evening before the feast day, Dutch children leave their shoes out with some hay and carrots for Sinterklaas’ horse. The children wake up to find their shoes filled with candy, small presents, and a personal message from Sinterklaas.
Sinterklaas’ arrival in the Netherlands is marked with a grand parade, during which he is greeted by large crowds of excited children. This tradition dates back to the 14th century and is still as popular today as it was then.
Frisian Skating
Ice skating is a beloved tradition in the Netherlands, but Frisian skating goes beyond recreational activity. It’s considered a sport with an illustrious history. Frisian Skating is a unique form of long-distance skating on natural ice that takes place in the northern province of Friesland.
The Elfstedentocht is the most famous Frisian skating event, and it consists of a 200-kilometer race through eleven historical cities. Since the race depends entirely on the thickness of the ice, it may not always take place every year, making it even more special when it does.
Final thoughts
The Netherlands might be small, but it’s culturally rich and diverse, with a plethora of traditions that tell stories of its people, history, and geography. From carnival celebrations to Frisian skating to Sinterklaas, the Netherlands has something for everyone. These cultural traditions are not only fascinating to learn about, but they also offer unique opportunities to experience the country’s cultural heritage firsthand, making a trip to the Netherlands a journey you’ll never forget.
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