Origin & history
The celebration of New Year's Day in the Netherlands has its roots in ancient Roman and pagan traditions, where the new year was originally celebrated in March. The adoption of January 1st as the start of the new year came with the Gregorian calendar reform in 1582, which was gradually accepted by the Dutch provinces. The Netherlands, being a Protestant nation, initially resisted the Catholic reform, but by the 18th century, January 1st was widely observed as New Year's Day. The tradition of fireworks on New Year's Eve (Oudjaarsavond) and the first day of the year also has historical significance, dating back to medieval times when people used noise to scare away evil spirits and welcome good luck.
Customs & traditions
On New Year's Day, the Netherlands celebrates with a variety of traditions. One of the most iconic is the Nieuwjaarsduik (New Year's Dive), where thousands of people plunge into the cold North Sea at beaches like Scheveningen, a tradition that started in 1960. Another popular custom is eating oliebollen (fried dough balls) and appelflappen (apple turnovers), which are traditionally consumed on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Families and friends gather for festive meals, and many people attend the New Year's Day concert by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, a tradition since 1949.
Why it is celebrated
New Year's Day in the Netherlands symbolizes renewal, hope, and new beginnings. It is a time for reflection on the past year and making resolutions for the year ahead. The collective celebrations, from fireworks to the New Year's Dive, foster a sense of community and shared optimism for the future.