Spending the holidays abroad can feel a bit strange at first, but The Netherlands has a warm and lively festive season that is easy to enjoy once you know where to start. If you are staying at PREMIER SUITES Amsterdam, you are in the perfect spot to experience it all. From Dutch traditions and local markets to relaxed days with good food and company, here is how to celebrate the holidays in The Netherlands as an expat.
Learn Dutch Holiday Traditions
The Dutch do not just celebrate Christmas. The season begins early with Sinterklaas, a beloved tradition that starts in mid-November and peaks on 5 December. Children leave out their shoes for small gifts, sweets, and chocolate letters. Adults often join in too, exchanging playful presents and funny poems.
If you work or socialise in The Netherlands, you will see Sinterklaas events in offices, schools, and public squares. You do not need to take part in everything, but learning about it or joining a local celebration helps you feel more connected to your new surroundings.
After Sinterklaas, attention turns to Kerstmis (Christmas). Most Dutch families celebrate on 24 and 25 December, focusing on relaxed meals at home rather than large-scale gift exchanges. Nieuwjaarsdag (New Year’s Day) and Oud en Nieuw (New Year’s Eve) are marked with fireworks, parties, and a few quirky traditions like the Nieuwjaarsduik, where brave swimmers plunge into icy water on 1 January
Explore Amsterdam’s Christmas Markets
Amsterdam is beautiful at any time of year, but during December, the city becomes a winter postcard. Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and canals lined with decorations make it a festive dream.
- The Amsterdam Christmas Market at Museumplein is one of the best known. It includes a large ice rink, live music, and food stalls serving Dutch favourites.
- Visit Funky Xmas Market at Westergas, where local artists and designers sell handmade gifts and crafts.
- Amsterdam Winter Paradise at RAI Amsterdam offers rides, entertainment, and an indoor ski slope.
Markets usually run from late November to Christmas Eve. Pick up a cup of mulled wine, enjoy some poffertjes, and take a stroll through the decorated streets.
Make Dutch Food Part of Your Festivities
Dutch festive food is simple, hearty, and perfect for cold evenings. Gourmetten is a common favourite, where everyone gathers around a small grill to cook their own mini meals. It is an easy, social way to host friends.
During the holidays, try oliebollen, deep-fried dough balls covered in icing sugar. You will find them sold from food stalls all over Amsterdam, especially around Dam Square and Leidseplein. For something sweet, buy a kerststol, a fruit loaf filled with marzipan that pairs well with coffee.
If you want to eat out, Amsterdam has plenty of festive dining options. Book a table at The Pantry for traditional Dutch dishes, De Kas for farm-to-table dining, or Café de Klos for hearty winter meals.
Create New Traditions
Living abroad gives you the freedom to mix your own customs with Dutch ones. You might miss family at home, but Amsterdam’s energy makes it easy to build new memories.
- Invite other expats or local friends for a relaxed dinner.
- Join a community event or volunteer group.
- Visit Vondelpark or take a day trip to Haarlem or Utrecht for a change of scene.
- Decorate your serviced apartment with candles and fairy lights. Christmas trees are sold at markets and flower stalls throughout the city.
Starting your own traditions makes the season feel personal and meaningful, no matter how far you are from home.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Amsterdam in winter is cold but full of life. The Amsterdam Light Festival runs through December and January, lighting up the canals with glowing art installations. It is one of the city’s most magical seasonal experiences.
Ice skating is another Dutch favourite. The rink at Museumplein is the most popular, but smaller rinks appear across neighbourhoods. Wrap up warm, skate a few laps, and reward yourself with hot chocolate or glühwein.
A walk along the Prinsengracht or Herengracht canals is lovely this time of year. The reflections of lights on the water make for perfect photos and peaceful evenings.
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Relax and Recharge at PREMIER SUITES Amsterdam
If you are spending the holidays away from home, comfort matters. At PREMIER SUITES Amsterdam, you can make the season your own. Each serviced apartment has a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living area, and all the comforts of home.
You can cook your favourite festive meals, stream Christmas films, or host a cosy dinner without the restrictions of a hotel room. The central location near Amsterdam Zuid Station makes it easy to reach key areas like Museumplein, the canals, and De Pijp.
For expats, the apartments offer independence and calm, the perfect mix for those who want both space and connection during the festive season.
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Celebrate the Dutch Way
The holidays in The Netherlands are about slowing down, sharing good food, and enjoying the people around you. You do not need big plans to feel festive. Join a market, try oliebollen, light candles, or toast the new year with friends.
Amsterdam’s mix of locals and internationals makes the season welcoming and full of character. As an expat, you get the best of both worlds, familiar comforts with new experiences.
Book your stay at PREMIER SUITES Amsterdam this festive season and make The Netherlands feel like home for the holidays.
