Planning your work schedule and moments of rest is essential for a comfortable lifestyle — both for employees and employers. Although in 2026 the days off in the Netherlands are not numerous, and only two of them offer a real opportunity for an extended weekend, knowing them still helps you plan your vacation wisely and spread your free time throughout the year.
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Days off in the Netherlands – a list of the most important public holidays in 2026
In the Netherlands, there are usually 8 statutory public holidays. In 2026, these will be:
- 1 January (Thursday) – New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag)
- 5 April – Easter Sunday (Eerste Paasdag)
- 6 April – Easter Monday (Tweede Paasdag)
- 27 April (Monday) – King’s Day (Koningsdag)
- 14 May (Thursday) – Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag)
- 24 May (Sunday) – Whit Sunday / Pentecost (Eerste Pinksterdag)
- 25 December – Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag)
- 26 December – Second Day of Christmas (Tweede Kerstdag)
It is important to remember that not all sectors follow the same rules — in some industries, such as logistics or care work, working on public holidays is possible and usually comes with additional pay.
Days off in the Netherlands – when is the best time to take a vacation?
Even though the number of holidays is limited, you can strategically combine them with weekends to enjoy a longer break. The most advantageous time in 2026 is the period around Ascension Day, which always falls on a Thursday — taking Friday off gives you a four-day weekend. During Easter or Christmas, you can also select vacation days according to your preferences, using one statutory holiday to create a longer break from work.
Days off in the Netherlands – how do people spend their free time?
The Dutch place great importance on work–life balance. For this reason, on days off they eagerly spend time outdoors — cycling, having picnics, visiting local markets and festivals. Trips to the seaside, walks through the dunes or exploring historic towns are also very popular. Free days are a perfect moment to meet with family and friends and to enjoy the country’s rich cultural offerings.
Days off in the Netherlands – the most important national holiday
One of the most significant days in the Dutch holiday calendar is King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebrated on 27 April. It is one of the most recognizable national holidays in the Netherlands. Streets, canals and city squares fill with crowds dressed in orange — the national colour. Country-wide flea markets, concerts, parades and cultural events attract both residents and tourists. Although it is not a day off in every industry, most employees take the opportunity to celebrate together with others.
Days off in the Netherlands – what should employees know?
Dutch law guarantees at least 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time workers, although many companies offer 24–30 days. Public holidays are separate from annual leave, meaning employees do not have to use vacation days for statutory days off. Understanding how holidays fall throughout the year helps you plan your private life better, while employers can more easily organize work schedules.
If you are planning to work in the Netherlands or are already employed there, check the latest and verified job offers available on our platform europa.jobs. Find a job that matches your needs and plan your year with free days and comfortable rest in mind.
