Complete list of Netherlands national holidays and public holidays for 2026. This calendar includes all official holidays, traditional celebrations, and seasonal observances throughout the year.
Important national holidays include King's Birthday (Apr 27), Liberation Day (May 5), Christmas Day (Dec 25), and New Year's Day (Jan 1). The calendar also features traditional Dutch celebrations like St Nicholas' Day and seasonal equinox/solstice dates.
| Thursday1 January | New Year's Day |
| Saturday14 February | Valentine's Day |
| Friday20 March | March Equinox |
| Friday3 April | Good Friday |
| Sunday5 April | Easter Sunday |
| Monday6 April | Easter Monday |
| Monday27 April | King's Birthday |
| Monday4 May | Remembrance Day |
| Tuesday5 May | Liberation Day |
| Sunday10 May | Mother's Day |
| Thursday14 May | Ascension Day |
| Sunday24 May | Whit Sunday |
| Monday25 May | Whit Monday |
| Sunday21 June | Father's Day |
| Sunday21 June | June Solstice |
| Wednesday1 July | Keti Koti |
| Wednesday23 September | September Equinox |
| Saturday5 December | St Nicholas' Eve/Sinterklaas |
| Sunday6 December | St Nicholas' Day |
| Monday21 December | December Solstice |
| Thursday24 December | Christmas Eve |
| Friday25 December | Christmas Day |
| Saturday26 December | Second Day of Christmas |
| Thursday31 December | New Year's Eve |
Netherlands Holidays 2026: The Netherlands is known for its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and well-balanced work-life structure. If you are planning to work, study, or travel in the country, knowing the Netherlands public holidays 2026 is extremely important. These holidays not only reflect Dutch history and traditions but also play a key role in planning vacations, business schedules, and long weekends.
In this guide, we cover all official Netherlands holidays in 2026, explain their significance, and share practical tips to help you plan smarter. Netherlands Holidays 2026
Public holidays in the Netherlands are a mix of national, royal, and religious observances. While some holidays are legally recognized nationwide, others are widely observed by businesses and institutions even if they are not mandatory days off.
Most Dutch employees enjoy paid leave on major holidays, and public transport may operate on reduced schedules. Tourist spots, however, often remain open—sometimes even busier than usual.
Below is the expected list of major holidays in the Netherlands for 2026:
Note: Some companies may also give time off on Good Friday or local observances depending on employment contracts.
King’s Day is the most iconic celebration in the Netherlands. The entire country turns orange, streets fill with music, flea markets, and parties. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam attract massive crowds, making it a must-experience event for visitors.
Liberation Day marks the end of Nazi occupation during World War II. Although celebrated every year, it is an official paid holiday only once every five years—2025 was paid, 2026 may depend on employer policy. Still, concerts and public events are held nationwide.
Easter and Christmas are celebrated in a calm, family-oriented way in the Netherlands. Shops may be closed or operate on limited hours, while tourist attractions usually remain open.
Smart planning around Dutch holidays can give you excellent long breaks:
These long weekends are ideal for short European trips or exploring Dutch cities.
Whether you are an international traveler, student, remote worker, or business owner, understanding Dutch public holidays helps you avoid last-minute surprises. From closed offices to crowded tourist spots, holidays affect daily life more than expected.
By planning in advance, you can save money, manage time better, and fully enjoy what the Netherlands has to offer in 2026.
The Netherlands Holidays 2026 calendar is more than just a list of dates—it’s a window into Dutch culture and lifestyle. Mark these holidays early, plan wisely, and make the most of your year in the Netherlands. Netherlands Holidays 2026
• Liberation Day (May 5) is a public holiday that occurs every 5 years (next in 2025, 2030). In other years, it's a commemoration day.
• King's Birthday (Koningsdag) is celebrated on April 27, unless it falls on a Sunday, then it's celebrated on April 26.
• Good Friday is a public holiday but not all businesses close; government offices and schools are typically closed.
• St Nicholas' Eve (Sinterklaasavond) and St Nicholas' Day are traditional celebrations but not official public holidays.