What are bank holidays in the Netherlands?

Bank holidays are public holidays recognized nationwide, during which most businesses, schools, and government offices close. They mark cultural, historical, and religious events that are deeply ingrained in Dutch traditions. These holidays are not just for rest but are crucial for maintaining work-life balance.

Here’s what sets bank holidays in the Netherlands apart:

• From New Year’s Day to Liberation Day, these holidays reflect key moments in Dutch history and culture.
• Unlike regional holidays, bank holidays apply to the entire country, making them crucial dates for businesses and individuals alike.
• For employees, these holidays are moments to recharge or celebrate traditions, while for businesses, they signal the need for careful operational planning.

How many bank holidays are there in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has 11 public holidays in 2025, providing a mix of national and religious celebrations. Here’s the full list:

Good to know: key patterns for 2025:

1. Long weekends: Holidays like Easter Monday (April 21) and Whit Monday (June 9) extend regular weekends.
2. Bridge days: Ascension Day (May 29) on a Thursday provides an opportunity for extended breaks.
3. Clustered holidays: Christmas and Boxing Day create back-to-back holidays for festive celebrations.
4. Sunday observances: Holidays such as Easter Sunday and King’s Day fall on Sundays, posing unique scheduling challenges for businesses operating on weekends.

What are the rules and regulations for working on bank holidays in the Netherlands?

Bank holidays are typically days off for employees, but some sectors require operations to continue. Here’s a breakdown of the rules:

Dutch labor laws for bank holidays:

• Not mandatory for all: Dutch labor law does not guarantee days off on public holidays. Policies depend on employment contracts, Collective Labor Agreements (CAOs), or company policies.
• Employee rights: Employees cannot be forced to work on bank holidays unless their contract explicitly allows it. Most agreements provide either time off or extra compensation.
• Employer obligations: Employers must clearly communicate holiday policies and work schedules well in advance to avoid disputes or compliance issues.

Industries where work continues:

• Healthcare: Hospitals and care facilities often operate at full capacity during holidays.
• Retail and hospitality: Shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions may see increased activity, especially on festive holidays like Christmas.
• Transportation: Public transport and logistics providers typically maintain service, albeit on a reduced schedule.

Planning ahead for bank holidays ensures you can make the most of your time, whether for personal relaxation or business productivity. For individuals, these holidays are perfect for vacations or spending time with loved ones. For businesses, early preparation can prevent disruptions and ensure smooth operations.

Tips for maximizing long holiday weekends in the Netherlands

Make the most of your holidays with these practical strategies:

1. Use bridge days wisely: Take leave on strategic days, like Friday, May 30 (the day after Ascension Day), to create extended weekends and make the most of holiday clusters.
2. Plan ahead for peak travel: Popular holiday weekends can cause a surge in travel demand. Book your flights, accommodations, or event tickets well in advance to secure the best prices and avoid last-minute stress.
3. Combine statutory leave with holidays: Stretch your vacation days by pairing them with bank holidays. For instance, taking a few extra days around Easter Monday can give you an extended spring break.
4. Coordinate with your team or family: For businesses, create holiday schedules early to prevent staff shortages. For individuals, align plans with family or friends to enjoy shared activities during long weekends.
5. Avoid procrastination: Organize activities, outings, or trips ahead of time. Even local plans like visiting attractions or hosting gatherings can benefit from early preparation.
6. Stay flexible: For spontaneous getaways, keep an eye on last-minute deals or off-peak opportunities during quieter holidays like Good Friday.
7. Adapt operations for businesses: Analyze past customer behaviors to predict demand. Retailers and service providers can adjust inventory or staffing to maximize holiday traffic or minimize downtime.

☀️ Pro Tip: Check the weather forecast when planning your long weekends to avoid disruptions and make the most of your time outdoors.