2025 Public Holidays in the Netherlands
The Netherlands celebrates several public holidays throughout the year, blending cultural traditions, historical milestones, and religious celebrations. Whether you’re working or living in the Netherlands, it’s helpful to know what to expect. Here’s a friendly guide to the 2025 public holidays, their significance, and what they mean for work arrangements.
Official Public Holidays in the Netherlands?
In 2025, there will be 10 official public holidays in the Netherlands. These are the days when most companies, schools, and governmental offices are closed, allowing people to rest or spend time with their loved ones. However, whether you get the day off depends on your employment contract or collective labor agreement (CAO).
Public Holidays in 2025
New Year’s Day – Wednesday, the 1st of January 2025
The year begins with New Year’s Day, a time to relax after the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Many people spend the day with family and or friends. A popular tradition is the Nieuwjaarsduik, where brave swimmers take a chilly dive into the sea (or lake).
Good Friday – Friday, the 18th of April 2025
Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While it is a significant day for Christians, it’s not a mandatory public holiday. Some companies and all governmental offices and schools will close for the day.
Easter – Sunday, 20 April & Monday, 21 April 2025
Easter is celebrated over two days: Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Traditionally, this Christian holiday marks the resurrection of Jesus. It’s also a time for family / friends brunches, and children enjoy the hunt for Easter eggs.
King’s Day – Sunday, 27 April 2025
King’s Day honours the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. The country turns orange with vibrant street markets, parades, and festivities. Please note: In 2025, King's Day will be Saturday, 26th April because King's Day is never celebrated on a Sunday.
Liberation Day – Monday, 5 May 2025
Liberation Day celebrates the end of World War II in the Netherlands in 1945. This is a public holiday once every five years, with 2025 being one of those years. Nationwide events, concerts, and parades mark the occasion.
Ascension Day – Thursday, 29 May 2025
Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter, commemorates the ascension of Jesus to heaven. It’s a public holiday, and many people use the day for outdoor activities such as walking or cycling.
Pentecost – Sunday, 8 June & Monday, 9 June 2025
Pentecost, or Whitsun, celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus’ disciples. The second day, Whit Monday, is a public holiday often spent enjoying day trips or shopping.
Christmas – Thursday, 25 December & Friday, 26 December 2025
Christmas is a beloved holiday in the Netherlands. Families gather for festive meals, gift exchanges, and quality time together. Boxing Day (Second Christmas Day) is popular for outings and family visits.
Other celebrations in the Netherlands
Carnival – Sunday, 2 March to Tuesday, 4 March 2025
Carnaval is an exuberant celebration in the southern regions, featuring parades, costumes, and parties before the Christian fasting period of Lent.
Mother’s Day – Sunday, 11 May 2025
On Mother’s Day, mothers are honoured with flowers, gifts, and quality time from their families.
Father’s Day – Sunday, 15 June 2025
Father’s Day celebrates fathers and their contributions, often with family gatherings and thoughtful presents.
Sinterklaas – Friday, 5 December 2025
Sinterklaas is a uniquely Dutch tradition celebrated with gifts, poems, and festivities. Families come together for Pakjesavond, a magical evening filled with surprises and humour.
Work Rules for Public Holidays in the Netherlands
While public holidays are widely observed, work rules may vary.
Mandatory Leave: employers generally give time off for official public holidays unless the nature of the work (e.g., healthcare or emergency services) requires otherwise.
Holiday Pay: employees working on a public holiday are often entitled to extra pay or a substitute day off, depending on their employment contract or CAO.
Weekend Holidays: if a holiday falls on a weekend, there’s typically no replacement day off unless specified in the contract.
Part-Time Employees: part-timers are entitled to public holidays if the holiday falls on their usual working day.
With this guide to public holidays in the Netherlands for 2025, you can plan ahead to enjoy festive traditions and well-deserved breaks.
Have you started making plans yet?