Christmas eve in Netherlands

Christmas Eve in Netherlands: Must-Visit Cities for the Festive Season

Christmas Eve in Netherlands is a wonderful time to explore the winter wonderland. When you go to see this country during this time, you will come across some amazing things. You will come across the twinkling lights the beautifully reflect of the historic canals. Then, there are the cozy markets that fill the medieval town squares with holiday music and the laughter. Apart from this, you can relish delicious treats. These include the stroopwafels, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts. In order to enjoy all these and much more, you need to know about the best cities to visit during the Christmas. Read on to know all about them!

6 Must-Visit Cities for Christmas Eve in Netherlands

1). Amsterdam – The Capital City Celebrations

The capital city of the Netherlands sparkles in fascinating holiday spirit all throughout the December. 

One of the first events that kickstarts the Christmas cheer is the Amsterdam Light Festival. This year, the festival will be running all through the month of December. During this incredible event, you will witness popular canals being decked with artistic decorations. These usually reflect in the water creating a charming scene.

Then, there is the Dam Square that is home to a giant Christmas tree. In addition to that, you can also check out the festive market that attracts thousands of visitors.

Do not miss out on the Rijksmuseum gardens. This is a beautiful place that becomes even more beautiful during the Christmas time. Here, you can indulge in the ice skating or relish delicious seasonal treats!

Other places that you must check out in the Amsterdam are the Nine Streets and the Vondelpark. These places boast wonderful attractions for the families and the children. So, why wait? Plan your Christmas adventure in the Netherlands today!

2). Maastricht – Celebrate Best Christmas Eve in Netherlands!

Maastricht is a lovely city that you will come across in the south part of the Netherlands. When you enter this city, you will witness the medieval charm meeting the magic of the holidays!

One of the first places that you should go to see in the city is the Vrijthof Square. This place becomes a Christmas village full of wooden chalets selling the traditional goods. 

Then there are the local artisans that showcase the handcraft gifts and the traditional foods. You will love checking these out in the market stalls full of the decorations. 

Apart from this, you can check out the fascinating Maastricht festival during the Christmas season. This special occasion boasts the stunning light shows. But, the best part is that these are projected on the historic buildings. 

Do not miss out visiting the basilicas and the churches. These wonderful places feature local choirs that sing magical Christmas songs!

Take some time out to visit a nearby restaurant during your Christmas vacation. You will get the chance to relish exclusive regional holiday menus that feature the Limburg specialities. Enjoy all of these and much more by simply getting the Netherlands Visa!

3). Delft – Festive Charm Amidst the Canals and History!

Delft is a picturesque city that amazes visitors with its intimate Christmas experiences. Essentially, if you are looking for a peaceful Christmas holiday in the Netherlands, then Delft is the place to be!

Here, you will find beautiful historic churches that host incredible evening concerts. In these, you will get to enjoy the classical music as well as the carol performances. 

Then, there is main attraction – Main Square. This place glows with thousands of charming lights. In fact, when you step into this place, you will feel as if you are in the fairytale!

If you want a more hands-on experience you can take part in the local pottery workshops. In these, you get to create special Christmas theme Delft Blue Pieces for collectors. 

One amazing thing that you will notice is that the traditional Dutch homes open their doors. They do this so that holidaymakers can experience an authentic Christmas of the Netherlands. 

Another wonderful thing to not miss out on is the Canal tour. When you actually sail on the canals you will come across decorated bridges. The sight is an incredibly beautiful thing to behold!

4). Utrecht – Twinkling Lights and Dutch Holiday Markets!

Utrecht is another wonderful city in the Netherlands that you should visit for the Christmas eve celebrations.

One of the first places to go to, in this city, is the Dom tower. From this place, you can actually see the fascinating celebrations of the bustling city centre. 

If you are visiting with your better half, you must go for a candle-lit canal tour. On this tour, you will come across some wonderfully decorated bridges and the historic merchant houses. 

Apart from this, you can also visit the Railway Museum. This wonderful place is host to the unique Christmas theme exhibitions. In addition to this, families get to enjoy a wide range of fun activities. 

If you are into shopping then you should visit the local markets. Here, you will come across a variety of delicious Christmas foods. While you are exploring the city, you will also get to enjoy traditional carols in the medieval squares. These will be specially performed by the street musicians. 

5). Deventer – Enjoy a Unique Christmas Eve in Netherlands

During Christmas this place comes alive with one special event. That is the yearly Dickens Festival. During this thing, you will get the chance to indulge in the authentic Victorian Christmas ambience. 

Many of the locals in the city wear period costumes. They also perform the street theatre through the old town. Then, there are the traditional carol singers that fill the medieval streets with music throughout the December.

Apart from this, the historic buildings of the city host special exhibitions. You will have a great time enjoying these with your dear ones. Do not miss out on the traditional Christmas treats. Local bakeries specially make these during the time of the Christmas!

6). Valkenburg – The Christmas Capital of the Netherlands

The fascinating city of Valkenbury is best known for its unique underground Christmas markets. But, the best part – you will find these in the ancient caves!

In fact, when you go to this place, you will feel as if you are in the village of the Santa. That is because, the entire area is full of magical and elaborate decorations.

If you want to click some great pictures then you should head over to the castle ruins. The provide a dramatic backdrop not just for the pictures but also for the evening light shows. 

Then, there are the underground grottos that host the special holiday concerts. Do not miss enjoying a delicious Christmas dinner at the local restaurants. Some of them will be in a cave setting! 

Above the ground, one major spot to visit is the city centre. This place is full of amazing holiday decorations. If you want to know more about the local attractions, you can opt for a winter walking tour. So, when are you booking the Netherlands visa appointment London? Time is running out!

Popular Christmas Traditions in Netherlands to Enjoy

  1. The Sinterklaas Celebrations

Although, this even is celebrated on the 5th of December, it essentially sets the tone for the Christmas season. 

On this day, the children receive gifts and the traditional sweets during the evening festivities. In addition to this, the families gather together to enjoy special meals and storytelling opportunities. 

Then, there are the streets that are full of the parades and revelries. Even televisions broadcast special programs about the traditional stories of the Sinterklaas. Also, do not miss out on the Sinterklaas arrival ceremonies that are hosted by the communities!

  1. Explore the Dutch Christmas Markets 

The Christmas markets of the Netherlands offer a unique shopping experience throughout the December. 

During this time, you can shop for the local crafts or the souvenirs. You and your dear ones can also indulge in the regional foods while basking in the festive ambience of the city or the town squares. 

Each city of the Netherlands has its own unique set of traditions and festivities. You will come across a variety of artisans who demonstrate their traditional crafting techniques . 

Then, there are the food vendors that prepare Christmas season delicacies . Apart from this, you get to enjoy the live music, special evening markets, light shows and even children’s activities!

  1. Attend the Dutch Church Services 

One of the most popular traditions of Christmas Eve in Netherlands is attending the Church services. 

You will come across a wide range of historic churches that host these services across the Netherlands. Some of these churches also host the special musical performances as well as the carol services. As for the choirs, they perform both the classic and modern pieces!

One thing that will amaze you is that these services welcome people from all religious backgrounds!

Another thing that will warm your heart are the candlelight services. These create a magical ambience that you and your dear ones will fall in love with!

Apart from this, there are the Bell towers that are rung for special Christmas melodies!

Weather During Christmas Time in the Netherlands

The weather during the December is quite cool when you compare it to the other seasons. 

The temperatures usually range around the 2-7°C (35-45°F) across the country. Although, there is the possibility of the snow, you may not be able to witness it. 

Make sure to pack some warm clothes for your Christmas eve vacation in the Netherlands. Also, carry some waterproof clothing for the outdoor activities!

You will notice that the weather can tend to be windy. This will make you feel colder. That is why you will need good warm clothes to comfortably enjoy your Christmas trip!

Conclusion

The Christmas Eve in Netherlands is a wonderful fusion of the tradition and the modern celebrations. These effectively captivate the visitors who come from across the world.

While visiting each city, you will notice some similarities in the traditions. On the other hand, there are some unique aspects that you will love. 

Whether it is the underground markets, the illuminated canal tours or seasonal delicacies, you will get to enjoy a lot of things in the Netherlands!

Simply grab a Online Netherlands visa to enjoy a hassle-free trip to the Netherlands for the Christmas eve celebrations!

FAQs

1. When do Christmas celebrations begin in the Netherlands?

Most of the cities in the Netherlands begin their Christmas markets and festivities in the late part of the November . Then, the season extends till the early January that includes the New year celebrations and special events.

2. Do Dutch shops and restaurants stay open on Christmas Eve?

Many of the shops in the Netherlands close early on the Christmas Eve . However, some of them also remain open in the tourist areas. During this time, restaurants typically offer special holiday menus. But, you must make reservations in advance.

3. What is the best way to travel between Dutch cities during Christmas?

You can choose the Dutch rail system . It is one of the most reliable ways to travel between the major cities of the Netherlands . Please note that during the holiday season, the trains may run on schedules that are specially modified due to the festivities . Again, you must make the bookings in advance.

4. Are Christmas markets open every day?

Yes, most of the markets are open every day. They are open from the late morning and remain open till the early evening time . You will also get to enjoy some special events and explore the markets for an extended time during the peak season . 

5. Should I book accommodation in advance for Christmas Eve in Netherlands?

Yes, it would be great if you could book the hotels or the holiday rentals in advance . This will allow you to grab the best deals on your stay .

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