Expat Cousin
Culture Education Employment Finance Healthcare Holidays Housing Immigration Legal Lifestyle Residency Tax Things To Do Transport Travel Weather

Discover Dutch Culture: Traditions, Food, and Lifestyle

Discover the rich and quirky tapestry of Dutch culture, from centuries-old traditions and vibrant festivals to everyday customs that shape life in the Netherlands. Whether it's celebrating King's Day in orange, mastering the art of gezelligheid, or understanding the unspoken rules of birthday circles and borrels, our articles give you an authentic glimpse into what makes Dutch life so uniquely charming for locals and expats alike.

A group of children and adults walking down the street in front of houses.

Avondvierdaagse: A Dutch Evening Walking Tradition

Discover Avondvierdaagse, the beloved Dutch walking event for kids and families. Learn how it works, when it happens, and how to join.
badeendjesrace.webp:A large group of yellow rubber ducks floating down a canal in a netherlands city.

Badeendjesrace: The Netherlands’ Most Whimsical Charity Event

Discover the Dutch Badeendjesrace, a fun rubber duck race that raises money for charity. A colorful family-friendly tradition worth quacking about!
A father and a little child holding fathersday balloons walking over a bridge in a dutch city.

Father’s Day in the Netherlands: When and How It’s Celebrated

Find out when Father’s Day is celebrated in the Netherlands, the common Dutch traditions, and how expats can take part in this heartfelt occasion.
Two little figurine men dressed in traditional white clothing, depicting a cheese market, carrying cheese with a cheese market in the background.

Best Cheese Markets in the Netherlands

Discover the best cheese markets in the Netherlands, including Gouda, Alkmaar, and Edam. A must-visit for cheese lovers!
A large traffic intersection with several dutch people on bicycles.

Cycling in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

Want to cycle like a local? Learn the Dutch cycling rules, where to rent a bike, and essential safety tips for expats.
A top down view of Four beer glasses held and being clinked as part of a cheers by friend around a table.

Dutch Borrel: The Art of Socializing with Drinks & Bites

Discover the Dutch borrel tradition, where drinks, snacks, and socializing come together. Learn about borrel etiquette, food, and where to experience it.
Wooden word tiles spelling out the words direct and rude.

Dutch Directness: A Guide for Expats

Dutch people are known for being direct. Discover why and how to adapt to their no-nonsense communication style.
A stack of Dutch stroopwafels is on a white plate with a blurred white cup in the background.

Traditional Dutch Food: A Guide for Expats

Discover traditional Dutch foods like herring, stroopwafels, and bitterballen. A must-try list for expats in the Netherlands!
Dutch bicycle in front of a house with a large glass window. There are dutch wooden shoes painted in traditional colors and a wheel of dutch cheese.

Dutch Traditions: A Guide for Expats

Discover the unique traditions that shape Dutch culture, from Sinterklaas to King's Day. A fun and insightful guide for expats living in the Netherlands.
A row of dutch historic windmills along a body of water

Visiting De Zaanse Schans: A Living Piece of Dutch History

De Zaanse Schans is one of the Netherlands' most picturesque heritage sites. Discover its windmills, museums, and Dutch crafts perfect for a day trip.
A bouquet of flowers and chocolates on a wooden table with a tag saying happy mothersday.

Mother’s Day in the Netherlands: What You Need to Know

Discover how Mother’s Day is celebrated in the Netherlands, when it’s held, and what traditions and gift ideas are common among Dutch families.
The flag of the Netherlands is displayed prominently in front of a building, representing the country's identity and heritage.

Liberation Day in the Netherlands: History and Celebrations

Learn about Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag) in the Netherlands, its history, celebrations, and how expats can take part in the events.
A multitude of boats on a canal in the Netherlands. The boats are full of people dressed in orange in celebration of kingsday.

King’s Day in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

Celebrate King’s Day like a local! Discover the best events, traditions, and tips for enjoying the Netherlands' biggest national holiday.
A large crowd of people celebrating and wearing orange clothes and hats in the late evening.

Koningsnacht: The Night Before King's Day in the Netherlands

Celebrate Koningsnacht like a local! Learn what to expect, where to go, and how this festive night kicks off King’s Day celebrations across the Netherlands.

Sail Amsterdam: When and Where to Experience the Spectacle

Discover everything about Sail Amsterdam – when it happens, where to go, and why this maritime event is a must-see for expats.

Dutch Culture: Birthday Parties

Discover the unique traditions of Dutch birthday parties ,from the birthday circle to self-hosted treats.

Must-Visit Dutch Festivals: Celebrating Culture and Tradition

Explore the most popular Dutch festivals, from King's Day to Amsterdam Dance Event. Find out when and where to experience Dutch culture.

Dutch Culture: Giving Flowers

In the Netherlands, giving flowers is more than just a gift ,it's a cultural tradition. Learn when, why, and how the Dutch give flowers.

Holland Festival: A Celebration of International Performing Arts

Explore the Holland Festival, the Netherlands’ leading international performing arts event. Discover what makes it special and how to attend.

Is Holland the Netherlands? Clearing Up the Confusion

Many use 'Holland' and 'the Netherlands' interchangeably, but they're not the same. Here's what expats should know about the difference.

Keti Koti: Honoring the Abolition of Slavery in the Netherlands

Learn about Keti Koti, the Dutch commemoration and celebration of the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Antilles.

Open Tuinen Dagen: Explore Hidden Gardens in Amsterdam

Open Tuinen Dagen invites you to step behind Amsterdam’s canal houses and explore private gardens normally closed to the public. A must-see cultural event!

Dutch Culture: Showing Up Unannounced

Thinking of popping by a Dutch friend’s home and showing up unannounced? Read this first! Learn the cultural expectations around visits and planning ahead in the Netherlands.

Herdenkingsdag: Remembrance Day in the Netherlands

Discover the significance of Herdenkingsdag (Remembrance Day) in the Netherlands. Learn how the Dutch honor those who died in war and conflict.

Vrijmarkt: The Netherlands’ One-Day National Flea Market

Experience Vrijmarkt during King’s Day in the Netherlands ,when the entire country turns into one giant flea market. Discover how it works and where to go.

What Is an Expat in the Netherlands?

Explore what it means to be an expat in the Netherlands. Learn how the term is used, its differences from immigrants, and how it applies in Dutch society.

The Museum Card (Museumkaart) in the Netherlands

Discover how the Dutch Museum Card (Museumkaart) offers unlimited access to over 500 museums across the Netherlands. Ideal for expats and culture lovers.

Exploring the Islands of the Netherlands

Discover the Dutch islands, from the windswept Wadden Islands in the north to hidden gems in the Zeeland province. Perfect for nature lovers and peaceful getaways.

You Need an Afspraak in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, making an afspraak (appointment) is essential for many everyday tasks. Learn when and where you need one, and how to book it.

Need More Answers?

For more answers, visit our Expat Cousin online interactive service.

Start chatting!