In winter, the Netherlands awaits you with special events from the arrival of Santa Claus with a steam locomotive to Gouda, which is lit by candlelight, and floating Christmas markets - the Dutch Office for Tourism & Convention (NBTC) presents six special events for all fans of the cold season ..

Arrival of Sinterklaas in Apeldoorn: Dutch know that as soon as Sinterklaas is in the country, the Christmas season begins.. The national reception of the Dutch Santa Claus, who traditionally arrives from Spain, takes place in a different place every year.. On Saturday, November 16, Sinterklaas and his helpers, the ´Pieten´, are expected at 12 p.m. at the main train station in Apeldoorn (Gelderland province), where he will arrive with an old steam locomotive.. The Christmas spectacle is the highlight of the Christmas season for many Dutch children. Of course, German families are also welcome to experience Sinterklaas live..

Winter Paleis Het Loo - The fine art of table decorations: sumptuous table decorations, royal dishes and fairytale backdrops - from December 7, the former Royal Palace Paleis Het Loo will be showing a Christmas exhibition in Apeldoorn, in which visitors can experience high art royal service.. Until January 5, 2020, among other things, splendid dining tables, artistically folded napkins and playful menu cards will be presented, which are usually not seen by ordinary people.. Visitors have the opportunity to attend workshops in which they prepare historical meals or make flower decorations.. Children can decorate their own banquet table and let off steam on the ice rink.. The exhibition is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. admission costs 8.50 euros..

Gouda by candlelight: The Dutch city of Gouda shines in a very special light on December 13th.. As soon as dawn begins, hundreds of candles are lit around the Christmas tree in the market square.. From midday there are hot drinks and traditional delicacies on the stands.. While Christmas music can be heard from all corners, museums and churches open their doors.. At 7 p.m., visitors to the city gather around the Christmas tree to tune in Christmas carols.. The free Christmas event ´Gouda by candlelight´ is known for its unique atmosphere..

Dutch Christmas markets that enchant: Not only Germany has cozy Christmas markets to offer, some Dutch cities also organize magical markets year after year that are in no way inferior to their German counterparts.. The Christmas market on the Vrijthof in Maastricht impressed numerous visitors from Germany and surrounding areas from November 29 to December 31.. The idyllic backdrop of the city contributes significantly to the popularity of the Christmas attraction.. The city of Leiden organizes Christmas events for the whole family during the ´Winter Wonder Weeks´..

In addition to the popular ice rink, the Christmas market, which takes place from December 13th to 24th on the water of the Nieuwe Rijn canal, is particularly impressive.. The Christmas market ´WinterWelVaart´ in Groningen is different, but at least as special.. From December 21 to 23, around 20 sailing ships will moor at the canal and open Bug & Heck for sales stands, musicians, artists and the numerous visitors.. The largest Dutch Christmas market takes place in Dordrecht.. Small and large stands offer a total of 2.5 kilometers from December 13th to 15th, individual handicrafts, colorful Christmas decorations and sweet poffertjes.. A special insider tip among the Christmas markets in the Netherlands is the ´Kerstmarkt´ in the caves of Valkenburg.. From November 15 to January 5, 2020, visitors can explore the underground stands and be enchanted by the Christmas parade that takes place above ground..

Christmas tree beating in the national park: Sitting on Christmas Eve under the tree you cut yourself and unpacking presents - this idea could now become a reality.. The Dutch National Park De Hoge Veluwe offers its visitors the opportunity to cut a fir tree and take it home with them on four days in December.. Apart from the entrance fee to the national park, there are no other costs for the tree.. When you register between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at Marchantplein in the center of the park, (in) experienced loggers receive the necessary instruction and the appropriate equipment..

New Year´s Swim in Scheveningen: While most people only leave their houses in winter jackets in December and January, thousands of Dutch and tourists in bathing suits plunge into the ice-cold North Sea every year on January 1st.. The New Year´s Swim in Scheveningen is a tradition that has existed since 1965 and is extremely popular and attracts thousands of participants and spectators every year.. Courageous swimmers register with the organizers on site from 10.30 a.m.. Spectators get their money´s worth from 12 noon when up to 10,000 participants jump into the ice-cold waters.


debrequ, 2019-11-18