2022 is coming to an end. Do you want to know how Dutchies celebrate New Year? If so, we share some typical Dutch NYE and New Years traditions with you.
Oliebollen
Oliebollen are a traditional Dutch beignet which is literally translated to ”oil balls”. However, the simplest description is probably deep-fried doughnut balls with raisins and powdered sugar. Dutchies traditionally eat Oliebollen during Christmas time and they are especially popular on New Year’s Eve.
top 2000
Top 2000 is an annual radio programme playing the Top 2000 songs of all time. The public votes the best songs which NPO Radio 2 then streams since 1999. Traditionally, the marathon starts on the 25th of December and ends on New Year’s Eve.
Fireworks
Fireworks are a big part of the celebrations. That’s why you will find fireworks in most cities. If you want to set off fireworks yourself, please be careful and stick to the Dutch rules. Some municipalities banned fireworks completely. In others you are allowed to set them off from the 31st of December 6 pm to the 1st of January 2 am.
00:00 celebration
Shortly before midnight people usually go on the street to countdown the last seconds into the new year and watch fireworks. Moreover, they also often toast with a class of champaign while wishing their neighbours and loved ones a happy new year.
New Year's dive
The New Year’s dive is a typical Dutch tradition for those who are not afraid of the cold. The most popular location is Scheveningen, where 10 000 people dive into the cold sea on the 1st of January each year. Furthermore, the participants receive a cap and split pea soup from the sponsor Unox.
