Origin & history
St. Stephen's Day originates from the Christian feast day of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In the Netherlands, it has been observed since the Middle Ages, following Christmas Day as part of the Christmas season. The day was historically a time for charity and almsgiving, reflecting Stephen's role as a deacon who cared for the poor. Over time, it became a second day of Christmas celebrations, especially after the Protestant Reformation when the Dutch Republic retained it as a public holiday for rest and family gatherings. The day is also known as 'Tweede Kerstdag' (Second Christmas Day) in Dutch.
Customs & traditions
Traditionally, St. Stephen's Day in the Netherlands was marked by 'aomelen' or 'stephensing', where groups of poor people would go door-to-door singing songs in exchange for food or money. This custom has largely died out, but some rural areas still practice it. Today, most Dutch people spend the day visiting extended family, going for walks, or attending cultural events like concerts or ice skating. A popular tradition is the 'kerstborrel' (Christmas drinks) with colleagues or friends. Food typically includes leftovers from Christmas Day, such as gourmetten (table-top grilling), and special pastries like 'kerstkrans' (Christmas wreath cake). In some regions, people participate in charity runs or volunteer at soup kitchens to honor St. Stephen's charitable spirit.
Why it is celebrated
St. Stephen's Day is significant as a continuation of the Christmas celebration, providing an extra day of rest and family time in the busy holiday season. For Christians, it commemorates the martyrdom of St. Stephen, emphasizing themes of faith, charity, and service to the poor. In modern Dutch society, it reinforces social bonds and allows for reflection on the meaning of giving, beyond the commercialism of Christmas.