The Netherlands is rightfully called the land of tulips. Visitors to this country will certainly celebrate the splendor of the lush floral variety. In addition to the aesthetic pleasure of contemplating the beauty of the flora, both visitors and local people enjoy a lot of pleasure from participating in various holidays and festive events, to which this country is especially generous. Holidays in the Netherlands, what are they?
Cyclist days
The Netherlands is traditionally considered a land of not only tulips, but also bicycles. That is why the festive events accompany the Cyclist Days, which are held annually in early May. Fans of this sport come from all over the world to the Netherlands to take part in competitions. By tradition, all residents of the country these days move along the streets only on bicycles. And in each city, folk festivals, bicycle races and various exhibitions are organized.
Boat parade
At the end of the twentieth century, for the first time in the Netherlands, a boat parade was held, which was planned as the logical conclusion of the gay parade. But since then, for already 15 years, the Mayor of Amsterdam opens a festive procession on 2 August every year.
Spectators are located along the banks, on bridges. Brightly decorated boats and barges are filled with dancing people. Each boat has a different theme: police, military, etc. In cities at this time, venues are organized where various contests, competitions and theatrical performances are held.
Flower parade in Amsterdam
Justifying its name as the country of tulips, the Netherlands amazes guests with an enchanting procession called the Flower Parade. This fabulously beautiful event has been held on the first weekend of September every year for half a century.
The holiday begins on Thursday evening in the city, where the largest flower market is located, with the creation of flower arrangements on carnival platforms. Then all this splendor of floristry on Saturday morning begins to move to Amsterdam to the city center, where the main concert takes place. The holiday takes place both in Amsterdam itself and in its suburbs.
St. Nicolas day
One of the most interesting national holidays in the Netherlands is St. Nicholas Day. The indigenous people of the country consider December 6 more important in importance than New Year or Christmas, therefore they celebrate it very splendidly.
Long before the start, preparations begin for the upcoming celebration: gifts are purchased, which are secretly given to loved ones on the night of December 6, fresh pastries, pretzels, chocolate letters are prepared for the kids. On the streets of cities on this day, people arrange festive processions. The date has practically lost its religious component, and the holiday is considered more secular than religious.
