Christmas in the Netherlands is similar to the experience in other western, predominantly-Christian countries. It is typified by family gatherings, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the eating of fine food and drink and in some — but not all families — the giving of gifts.

Many expats staying here through the festive season will be pleasantly surprised by the familiarity of the Dutch Christmas and relieved perhaps by the absence of some of the more commercial traditions that go hand-in-hand with the festive season back home.

An early start to the festive season

The Dutch festive season officially starts of course with the arrival of Sinterklaas and his legion of Zwarte Piet helpers in mid-November. He arrives by boat from Spain to a different Dutch city every year in an event broadcast live on television.

The feast of Saint Nicolas is celebrated on 5 December and far from being threatened by his cousin from the North Pole, the tradition of Sinterklaas is rising in popularity. But when the December celebrations come and go, families, shops and businesses file away their Sinterklaas paraphernalia and immediately dust off last year's Christmas decorations. Lights, candles, wreaths, poinsettias and trees are strung, hung, tacked, taped and placed in every available space.   

Department stores eagerly get into the swing of things, decorating every floor with bows, wreaths, fake presents and large plastic trees, in preparation for the burgeoning shopping crowds. Streets can become very busy leading up to the big day, indicating that the Netherlands is not immune to the commercialism of Christmas.

Yet, fairy lights in trees, lighted decorations from house windows and gardens give a cheery, warm glow on a dark and cold December night. Yes, the good natured spirit of Christmas is also alive and well.

Mid-winter horn blowing

While the commercialised, shop-till-you-drop sort of festive cheer might sound familiar to you, there are a few other differences between a Dutch Christmas and say Christmas in the UK or US.

For example, a long time tradition among farmers in the rural east is the "mid-winter horn blowing". This custom begins on Advent Sunday (the fourth Sunday before Christmas) and continues until Christmas Eve.

Farmers use long horns made from the wood of elder trees, and everyday at dawn they blow the horn while standing over a well to announce the coming of Christ.

You might find a horn for sale at one of the Christmas markets across the country, where it might also be possible to stop a while and watch an old craftsman at work. Making the horn actually make noise though is a trick requiring plenty of practice!

For Christmas markets and events, read our Seasonal events special or check out www.nederland-web.nl/r/Kerstfeesten/

A more recent tradition sees children given a special calendar helping them countdown to Christmas. The calendar hides some candy in a special "door", which must be opened each day.

Another custom is to place an advent wreath in the living room with four red or yellow candles. The first candle is lit on Advent Sunday and an additional candle is lit each following Sunday. 

Many people will also display a nativity scene with their Christmas decorations. The decorated Christmas tree has become widely popular, having been introduced to the Netherlands in the 19th century.

Will the real Santa please stand up?

Despite the arrival of Sinterklaas earlier in the month, a second bearded man, also dressed in red, makes his way to the Netherlands on Christmas Eve. Don't be confused though, because the second arrival is the one most expats will be accustomed to, namely Santa Claus (Kerstman in Dutch).

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