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Christmas Traditions in the Netherlands at Work and School

Discover how Christmas is celebrated in the Netherlands at work and at schools. Practical guidance for internationals who want to understand Dutch traditions.
Dec 12

What to Expect at Work and at Your Child’s School

Christmas in the Netherlands is generally calm, modest and practical. For many internationals, that can be surprising. There are lights, cards and shared moments, but usually without big gestures or strong religious focus.


Understanding how Christmas is experienced at work and in schools helps you feel prepared and included.

Christmas at work in the Netherlands

Less about religion, more about togetherness


In Dutch workplaces, Christmas is rarely religious. Even though the country has Christian roots, most companies treat Christmas as a cultural and social moment rather than a faith based one.


That means you will not usually see prayers or religious references at work. Instead, Christmas is about marking the end of the year together.

The Christmas lunch or borrel

Many companies organise a Christmas lunch, dinner or informal drink. This is often similar to a regular borrel, but slightly more festive.

What to expect:

  • Casual conversations rather than formal speeches

  • Simple food like soup, bread, snacks or a buffet

  • A relaxed atmosphere where hierarchy is less visible

Attendance is usually appreciated but not mandatory. If you cannot join, explaining briefly is enough.


Gifts at work

Big gifts are uncommon. If there are gifts, they are often:


A small box of chocolates


A voucher


A shared gift from the company


Giving personal gifts to colleagues is not expected. In many teams, people agree in advance whether they do something like Secret Santa. If no agreement exists, it is perfectly fine not to bring anything.

Cards and wishes

A simple “Fijne feestdagen” is the standard phrase. It is neutral and inclusive. Many Dutch people prefer this over “Merry Christmas”, especially in diverse workplaces.


Writing a card is appreciated but not expected. Short and sincere works best.

Christmas at schools and childcare

At primary schools and childcare, Christmas is mostly about atmosphere and stories. Think lights, songs, crafts and shared activities.

Schools usually:

  • Decorate classrooms

  • Sing songs

  • Do small creative projects

  • Share food during a Christmas breakfast


Religious elements are often explained as stories, not beliefs. This approach reflects the Dutch focus on inclusivity and neutrality in education.

The Christmas breakfast

One common tradition is the Christmas breakfast. Children bring food from home and eat together in class.


Important things to know:


Parents often help prepare food


Allergies are taken seriously


Simple food is expected, not elaborate dishes


You will usually receive clear instructions from the school app.

How Christmas fits into Dutch culture

The Netherlands is a country where traditions exist, but are flexible. Christmas is not about doing things perfectly. It is about doing things together in a way that feels comfortable for everyone.


Dutch culture values:


Modesty


Equality


Practicality


That is why Christmas often feels low key. Loud celebrations or strong emotional displays are less common, especially at work.

What internationals often misunderstand

Many internationals expect:


Big office parties


Formal celebrations


Strong religious symbolism


In reality, Christmas in the Netherlands is often quiet and informal. That does not mean it is cold or distant. It simply reflects a cultural preference for balance and understatement


Why understanding these traditions helps

Knowing what to expect reduces stress. It also helps you interpret behaviour correctly. A small gesture is not lack of care. It is often a sign of respect for personal space and equality.


Language helps here too. Understanding school messages, emails about events and informal conversations makes these moments easier and more enjoyable.

Dutch culture often lives in small moments and everyday language. Understanding those moments starts with understanding the words around them.

Dutch Online helps you build that understanding step by step, with real life language, audio and context that match daily life in the Netherlands.

FAQ: Christmas in the Netherlands

Looking for more tips? Check out our other articles!