Well there it is, 2024 is coming to an end, and I am excited for 2025, however not without celebrating New Years Eve with a BANG (literally in some cases). So here are some NYE traditions you just might want to check out if you plan on celebrating the Dutch way.
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. However if I were you I would buy a couple of extra ones, cause once you start eating them you won’t be able to stop.
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. And for those of you who don’t speak Dutch yet don’t worry they have a couple of English Bangers too.
Fireworks
Ending NYE with a bang. 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.
Please however don’t burn down your house or yourself, it would really mess with the rest of your NYE plans.
