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7 Essential Things To Know About Being In The Netherlands On Christmas 2025

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Planning a holiday trip to the Netherlands for Christmas 2025? The short answer to "Is Dutch open on Christmas?" is a resounding "It depends," but be prepared for a significant shutdown. Unlike some countries where Christmas Day is a quiet observance, the Netherlands treats both December 25th (*Eerste Kerstdag* - First Christmas Day) and December 26th (*Tweede Kerstdag* - Second Christmas Day or Boxing Day) as official public holidays. This means that on December 25, 2025, most retail stores, banks, and businesses will be completely closed as families retreat for traditional celebrations like *gourmetten*.

However, that doesn't mean the country is entirely dormant. Tourist attractions, a significant portion of supermarkets, and essential services like public transport operate on modified schedules to accommodate visitors and locals. This guide provides the most current, up-to-date information for Christmas 2025, ensuring you can navigate the Dutch holiday season without any unexpected closures or travel disruptions.

The Definitive Guide to Dutch Opening Hours on Christmas 2025

To avoid disappointment, it is crucial to understand the distinct difference between the two Christmas days in the Netherlands. December 25th is the primary family day, while December 26th offers slightly more activity, especially for shopping and cultural visits.

1. Shops and Supermarkets: The 42% Rule on Christmas Day

If you need to buy groceries or forgotten gifts on Christmas Day (December 25, 2025), you will face challenges. The majority of non-essential shops will be closed. This includes major department stores like De Bijenkorf and all fashion, electronics, and specialty stores in city centers like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.

  • Supermarkets: This is the major exception. Based on recent data, nearly half (approximately 42%) of Dutch supermarkets are expected to be open on Christmas Day, but only for limited hours, typically closing earlier than usual. Expect smaller, neighborhood branches of chains like Albert Heijn (AH), Jumbo, and Lidl to be your best bet, but always check their specific local holiday hours online.
  • Boxing Day (December 26th): The situation improves significantly on *Tweede Kerstdag*. Most shops and retail centers, including large furniture stores like IKEA, will be open. Opening hours will generally follow a Sunday schedule, typically from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This is a popular day for post-Christmas sales and outings.
  • Pharmacies and Petrol Stations: Only emergency pharmacies (*dienstapotheek*) will be open. Petrol stations outside of city centers, especially those with small convenience stores, are likely to be open for essential purchases.

2. Major Museums and Tourist Attractions: The Cultural Lifeline

For visitors, the good news is that many of the Netherlands' most famous cultural institutions choose to remain open on Christmas Day, though reservations are essential and opening hours may be reduced.

  • Amsterdam’s Iconic Trio: The Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House often remain open on December 25th and 26th, though you must book tickets well in advance. The Anne Frank House, in particular, has very limited capacity.
  • Other Open Attractions: You can typically find other attractions open, such as the Amsterdam Dungeon, Artis Royal Zoo, and various smaller, private museums. The Amsterdam Light Festival is also a major draw during the entire holiday period, with canal cruises operating to view the spectacular installations.
  • Regional Attractions: Outside of Amsterdam, attractions like the famous underground Christmas Market in Valkenburg are key highlights during the season. Always verify the specific 2025 hours for regional museums like the Wereldmuseum Leiden, which has announced closures on December 25th.

3. Public Transport: Running on a Sunday Schedule

If you plan to travel between cities or within a city on December 25th or 26th, you can rely on the public transport network, but expect fewer services and longer waits.

  • Trains (NS): On both Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the national rail service (NS) operates on a Sunday timetable. This means trains run less frequently than on a standard weekday. Furthermore, the entire rail network runs on a modified, reduced schedule from late December through early January 2026.
  • Trams, Buses, and Metros: Local transport, including GVB (Amsterdam), RET (Rotterdam), and HTM (The Hague), also adopts a Sunday or reduced holiday schedule. Services will start later and finish earlier than usual.
  • Tip for Travelers: Always use a real-time journey planner app like 9292 or the NS app immediately before you travel to check for the most accurate and current departure times.

Embracing Dutch Christmas Traditions: More Than Just Opening Hours

Understanding why the Netherlands largely shuts down on December 25th is key to appreciating the holiday. Unlike the focus on Christmas Eve or a single Christmas Day in other countries, the Dutch celebration centers on a relaxed, two-day family affair.

4. The Culinary Centerpiece: *Gourmetten*

Forget the large, traditional turkey or ham. The most popular Christmas dinner tradition in the Netherlands is *gourmetten*. This social and interactive dining experience involves a small electric tabletop grill, where each person cooks their own small portions of meat, fish, and vegetables at the table. It's a slow, communal meal designed to last for hours, making the need to go out to a restaurant less pressing for many families. Other popular dishes include *rollade* (rolled roast) and a lavish Indonesian-inspired *rijsttafel*.

5. Sweet Treats and Festive Flavors

The Dutch holiday season is rich with specific seasonal treats that you should try: *Kerststol* is a sweet, raisin-filled bread with almond paste, typically eaten for Christmas breakfast. Other favorites include *Banketstaaf* (almond paste pastry), *Kerstkransjes* (decorative cookies), and the rich, egg-based liqueur *Advocaat*. These items are essential to the topical authority of a Dutch Christmas, and you should stock up on them on Christmas Eve.

6. The Two-Day Celebration: *Eerste* and *Tweede Kerstdag*

The concept of two official Christmas holidays is a major difference. *Eerste Kerstdag* (December 25th) is strictly for immediate family, church services, and the main *gourmetten* dinner. *Tweede Kerstdag* (December 26th) is often used for visiting extended family, friends, or taking advantage of the slightly more open public life, which is why shops and attractions are more active on this day.

7. Essential Entities and Keywords for a Smooth Trip

To navigate the Dutch Christmas successfully, keep these key entities and keywords in mind:

  • Eerste Kerstdag: December 25th (Closed Day)
  • Tweede Kerstdag: December 26th (Boxing Day/More Open)
  • Gourmetten: The most popular Christmas dinner tradition.
  • Kerststol: Traditional Christmas bread.
  • Albert Heijn / Jumbo: Main supermarket chains (check their limited opening hours).
  • NS: National train service (runs Sunday schedule).
  • Rijksmuseum / Van Gogh Museum: Major attractions likely to be open.
  • Valkenburg: Home to the famous underground Christmas market.
  • Amsterdam Light Festival: Key cultural event during the holiday season.

In conclusion, while the Netherlands is not "fully open" on Christmas Day 2025, it is far from completely shut down. By planning ahead, booking your museum tickets early, and embracing the reduced pace of life, you can enjoy a festive and culturally rich holiday experience in the Low Countries. Remember to complete all essential shopping on December 24th, and you'll be set for a cozy Dutch Christmas.

7 Essential Things to Know About Being in the Netherlands on Christmas 2025
is dutch open on christmas
is dutch open on christmas

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