About Second Day of Christmas in Netherlands Holiday
As the festivities of the holiday season come to a close, the Netherlands remains a vibrant destination for travelers seeking a unique and culturally-rich experience. And what better way to continue the celebrations than by spending the Second Day of Christmas in this beautiful European country?
Known for its picturesque windmills, tulip fields, and charming canals, the Netherlands offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modernity. On this special day, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional Dutch customs and witness the country in all its festive glory.
One of the highlights of this day is the annual Christmas market in Amsterdam, where the streets are adorned with twinkling lights and decorated with stalls selling everything from traditional delicacies to handmade crafts. Take a stroll through the market, sipping on a warm cup of glühwein (mulled wine) and indulging in delicious oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts), while enjoying the cheerful atmosphere and live music performances.
For those looking to delve deeper into Dutch traditions, head to the Zuiderzee Museum in Enkhuizen, where you can discover the history of the Dutch fishing villages and learn about the customs and rituals of Christmas in the past. And for a truly magical experience, take a cruise along the canals of Amsterdam, marveling at the brightly-lit bridges and buildings, and admiring the beautiful art installations that light up the city during this time of year.
So, if you're planning a holiday escape, make sure to add the Netherlands to your list and celebrate the Second Day of Christmas in this charming country. With its inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage, the Netherlands is the perfect place to continue the holiday festivities and create unforgettable memories.
The Second Day of Christmas in The Netherlands: A Time for Celebrations and Traditions
If you happen to be in the Netherlands on the 26th of December, you will notice the festive spirit still lingering from Christmas celebrations. This is because the Dutch also celebrate the Second Day of Christmas, also known as Tweede Kerstdag, as a continuation of their Christmas festivities. This holiday is deeply ingrained in Dutch culture and is a time for families and loved ones to come together and enjoy fun activities, delicious food, and ancient traditions.
Key Takeaways:
- The Second Day of Christmas in the Netherlands is on December 26th and is a continuation of the Christmas celebrations.
- This holiday has deep cultural significance and is a time for families and loved ones to come together.
- Some popular Dutch traditions on this day include ice skating, binge-watching TV, and enjoying delicious holiday food.
History and Origin
The origins of the Second Day of Christmas can be traced back to the early Christian church. In the 16th century, the Catholic Church declared the 26th of December as the Feast of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. This was a way to honor and remember St. Stephen, who was stoned to death for his religious beliefs.
As a predominantly Catholic country, the Netherlands adopted this holiday and infused it with their own traditions and customs. However, with the decline of Catholicism in the Netherlands in the 20th century, the holiday shifted towards a more secular celebration.
Today, the Second Day of Christmas is considered a national holiday in the Netherlands, and most businesses and schools are closed. This allows families and friends to come together and partake in holiday festivities.
Significance and Meaning
Although the religious significance of the Second Day of Christmas has diminished, it still holds cultural importance in the Netherlands. This holiday is a time for the Dutch to celebrate their traditions and spend quality time with their loved ones.
For many, this day is also a reminder to give back to their community and those in need. Some Dutch families volunteer at soup kitchens or donate to charity organizations on the Second Day of Christmas. This embodies the true spirit of the holiday, which is to show compassion and kindness to others.
Symbols and Decorations
The Second Day of Christmas in the Netherlands is often associated with beautiful winter imagery and decorations. The most iconic symbol of this holiday is the Christmas tree, which is adorned with lights, ornaments, and presents.
Another popular decoration is the kerstkrans, a wreath made of evergreen branches, pinecones, and red berries. The Dutch believe that hanging a kerstkrans on your door brings good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.
In addition to these decorations, you will also find traditional Dutch nativity scenes, known as kerstkribbe, on display in homes and churches.
Traditions and Celebrations
On the Second Day of Christmas, the Dutch have a variety of traditions and celebrations that have been passed down for generations.
One popular tradition is ice skating. Many Dutch cities open up ice rinks on this day, and families and friends gather to glide across the frozen water while enjoying hot chocolate and sweet treats.
Another tradition is spending the day binge-watching holiday movies and shows on TV. This is a great way for families to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of Christmas.
Food also plays a significant role in the celebrations of the Second Day of Christmas. Families gather for a feast of traditional Dutch dishes such as roasted meats, stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), and oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls). These delicious dishes bring loved ones together and add to the festive spirit of the holiday.
Optional – Traditional Recipe for Oliebollen:
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of warm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp of active dry yeast
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of sugar
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1 apple (peeled and diced)
- Sunflower oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly add in the warm milk and mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for an hour in a warm place.
- Once the dough has risen, gently fold in the diced apple.
- Heat up the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Using two spoons, drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown for about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the oliebollen from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Attire and Costumes
On the Second Day of Christmas, there are no specific attire or costumes that are traditionally worn. However, with the winter season in full swing, most people opt for warm and cozy clothing, such as sweaters, scarves, and hats while participating in outdoor activities.
Music and Songs
Music also plays a significant role in the celebration of the Second Day of Christmas. Traditional Dutch Christmas songs, known as kerstliederen, can be heard all around the country. These songs are usually sung in groups and add to the festive ambiance of the day.
Geographical Spread
The Second Day of Christmas is celebrated throughout the Netherlands, but some regions have their own unique traditions and customs.
In Groningen, a city in the northern part of the Netherlands, people gather to participate in an annual Christmas swim. Brave participants don their swimsuits and take a plunge into the freezing cold water of the North Sea. This event is not for the faint of heart but is a cherished tradition for many in the region.
In Amsterdam, the Philharmonic Orchestra holds a Christmas concert on the Second Day of Christmas, attracting music lovers from all over the country. This event is seen as a cultural highlight of the holiday and is a much-anticipated tradition in the city.
Modern-Day Observations
The Second Day of Christmas celebrations have evolved over the years, adapting to modern times. Some Dutch families now choose to celebrate Christmas and the Second Day of Christmas by travelling to warmer destinations or enjoying a “Dinner of the World,” where they sample foods from different cultures.
In recent years, there has also been a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly celebrations. Many people now choose to use natural decorations and reduce food waste during the holiday season.
Interesting Facts or Trivia
- The Dutch refer to the Second Day of Christmas as “Boxing Day” because it was traditionally a day for giving gifts to the less fortunate.
- The kerststol, a traditional Christmas bread filled with raisins and almond paste, is often served on the Second Day of Christmas.
- The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is open to the public for free on the Second Day of Christmas.
- The song “Twelve Days of Christmas” is believed to be of Dutch origin, with some variations in the lyrics.
- According to legend, the Dutch saint Sinterklaas delivers his presents on the Second Day of Christmas instead of Christmas Eve, which is celebrated in many other countries.
Holiday Wishes
- Wishing you joy and happiness on this special day.
- May the celebrations on the Second Day of Christmas bring you love and laughter.
- Warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones on this festive occasion.
- Wishing you a Dutch-style Christmas filled with delicious food and cherished traditions.
- May the spirit of the Second Day of Christmas bring you peace and love throughout the year.
Holiday Messages
- To my dearest family and friends, I wish you a happy and blessed Second Day of Christmas.
- Wishing you all the joys and wonders of this special day. Happy Second Day of Christmas!
- May the magic of the holidays continue on this Second Day of Christmas and beyond. Happy Holidays!
- On this day, let us come together and celebrate the traditions that make our culture unique. Happy Second Day of Christmas to all!
- Warmest holiday greetings to you and yours on this special day. Happy Second Day of Christmas!
Holiday Quotes
- “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale
- “Christmas is not a date. It is a state of mind.” – Mary Ellen Chase
- “The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.” – Burton Hillis
- “Christmas is not just a time for festivity and merry making. It is more than that. It is a time for the contemplation of eternal things.” – Calvin Coolidge
- “Toward the end of December, as the holiday season approaches, Dutch society becomes more introspective than usual.” – Simon Kuper
Other Popular Holiday Info
The Second Day of Christmas is also known as a “lazy day” in the Netherlands, as most people spend the day relaxing and enjoying quality time with their loved ones.
Political leaders often take this day to connect with their constituents by attending church services and community events.
Some families also have ‘hidden feasts’ on the Second Day of Christmas, where they spread out food in various rooms of their home and have a progressive dinner, traveling from room to room to enjoy different dishes.
FAQ
- Is the Second Day of Christmas only celebrated by Catholics in the Netherlands?
- Are there any religious services held on the Second Day of Christmas?
- Do people exchange gifts on the Second Day of Christmas?
- Are there any superstitions or beliefs associated with the Second Day of Christmas?
No, the holiday is celebrated by people of all faiths and is seen as a secular national holiday in the Netherlands.
Yes, some churches hold services, but it is not as widely observed as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.
In the past, it was traditional to give gifts to the less fortunate on this day, but now it is more common for families to exchange gifts on Christmas Day.
Some people believe that if you are born on the Second Day of Christmas, you will have good luck for the rest of your life.
Conclusion
The Second Day of Christmas is a cherished holiday in the Netherlands, filled with traditions, delicious food, and quality time with loved ones. This holiday has evolved over the years but remains a symbol of Dutch culture and unity. Whether it’s skating on frozen lakes or enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones, the Second Day of Christmas is a time for celebration and creating lasting memories.
How to Say "Second Day of Christmas in Netherlands" In Different Languages?
- Chinese
- 荷兰圣诞第二天 (zh-CN)
- Czech
- Druhý den vánoční, Nizozemsko (cs-CZ)
- French
- Deuxième jour de Noël, Pays-Bas (fr-FR)
- German
- Zweiter Weihnachtstag, Niederlande (de-DE)
- Greek
- Δεύτερη ημέρα των Χριστουγέννων, Κάτω Χώρες (el-GR)
- Hebrew
- שני חג המולד, הולנד (he-IL)
- Hungarian
- Karácsony második napja, Hollandia (hu-HU)
- Italian
- Secondo giorno di Natale, Paesi Bassi (it-IT)
- Japanese
- クリスマス二日目、オランダ (ja-JP)
- Polish
- Drugi dzień Bożego Narodzenia, Holandia (pl-PL)
- Portuguese
- Segundo dia de Natal, Países Baixos (pt-PT)
- Russian
- Второй день Рождества, Нидерланды (ru-RU)
- Spanish
- Segundo día de Navidad, Países Bajos (es-ES)
- Swedish
- Andra juldagen, Nederländerna (sv-SE)
- Turkish
- Hollanda Noël İkiinci Günü (tr-TR)
Second Day of Christmas in Netherlands Also Called
Tweede KerstdagCountries where "Second Day of Christmas in Netherlands" is celebrated:
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