Hey guys, planning your year can be a blast, right? Especially when you're looking forward to those awesome feestdagen! If you're anything like me, you're already peeking at the calendar for 2026, trying to figure out how to make the most of those januari and februari holidays. So, let's dive into what's coming up in those first two months, shall we? We'll cover the big ones like Nieuwjaarsdag, and some of the more festive holidays like carnaval and valentijnsdag. Consider this your go-to guide to make sure you're totally prepped for all the fun! I will give you a quick overzicht and some handy tips to help you make the most of each special day. Get ready to mark those dates, and let's get this party started! I know it might seem like a while away, but hey, time flies, and before you know it, we'll be breaking out the oliebollen and champagne. So grab your agenda, and let's jump in!

Nieuwjaarsdag: Start the Year with a Bang!

Okay, let's kick things off with Nieuwjaarsdag! This is the granddaddy of all January holidays, the day we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with open arms. In 2026, Nieuwjaarsdag falls on a Thursday, so you could even stretch the celebrations with a long weekend – how cool is that? Now, what to do on Nieuwjaarsdag? Well, the traditional thing is to sleep in after a night of partying. But once you're up and about, think about starting your year right. Maybe a nice, long walk to clear your head, or perhaps a brunch with family and friends to share your resolutions (or maybe not, haha!).

Nieuwjaarsdag is all about new beginnings, guys. It's the perfect time to set some goals, both big and small, for the year ahead. Want to learn a new skill? Start a new hobby? Or maybe just drink more water and get more sleep? This is your day! You could even use this day to plan a trip for the upcoming months. The holiday could also be a perfect excuse to try out a new recipe, get together with some friends, and catch up after the craziness of the holiday season. The vibe on Nieuwjaarsdag is usually pretty chill. It's a day for relaxing, reflecting, and enjoying the company of loved ones. So, make sure you take some time for yourself, too! Maybe read a book, watch a movie, or just do absolutely nothing. Whatever makes you happy, that's what you should be doing. And of course, don’t forget the oliebollen and champagne from New Year's Eve – they're always a good idea! Another tip: Make sure you book any dinners or activities in advance. Places will fill up fast.

Nieuwjaarsdag Tips & Tricks:

• Plan a Brunch: Gather your loved ones for a delicious brunch to kick off the new year in style.
• Set Intentions: Take some time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead.
• Enjoy the Silence: Sometimes, just a quiet day at home is the best way to start the year.
• Stay Hydrated: After all the celebrations, make sure you drink plenty of water.
• Book in advance: Make sure you make reservations if you are planning to go out.

Carnaval: Let the Good Times Roll!

Alright, moving on to February, we have Carnaval! Carnaval is a major celebration, especially in the southern parts of the Netherlands. It's a time of parades, costumes, music, and general merriment. The dates for carnaval can change, because they are tied to the liturgical calendar, but you can typically expect it to fall sometime in February or March. Carnaval is a super fun time to let loose and embrace some silliness. Think vibrant costumes, lots of music, and plenty of dancing in the streets! It's a bit like a giant street party, and everyone is invited. It’s a great way to escape the winter blues and have some fun with friends and family. Even if you don’t live in a carnaval-crazy area, it's still worth checking out if you can! The energy is infectious, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

For 2026, you will need to pay close attention to the specific dates, as they can fluctuate. The festivities usually span several days, with the main events happening over a weekend. If you're planning on joining the Carnaval fun, you'll need a costume, or at least something festive to wear. Anything goes, really! Just be prepared to be creative and embrace the spirit of the occasion. And don't forget to practice your 'Alaaf!' (the traditional Carnaval greeting). It's a must! If you're not into the whole costume thing, that's fine too. You can still enjoy the parades, the music, and the general atmosphere. Just make sure you bring a good attitude and a willingness to have fun. The best part of Carnaval is that it is for everyone. It's a time when people from all walks of life come together to celebrate, laugh, and have a good time. There are plenty of parades, parties, and events to keep you entertained throughout the entire festival. So, make sure you do a little research. Check out local events calendars and see what’s happening in your area. This will help you get the most out of your Carnaval experience. Be prepared for crowds, especially during the parades and main events. So, plan ahead and arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.

Carnaval Tips & Tricks:

• Choose a costume: Plan your costume ahead of time. Get creative, and have fun with it!
• Learn some phrases: Knowing some local phrases, such as “Alaaf,” can go a long way.
• Check the schedule: Know when the parades and events are happening.
• Book in advance: Carnaval events are very popular, so reserve your tickets early.
• Stay safe: Drink responsibly, and be aware of your surroundings.

Valentijnsdag: Spread the Love!

And last, but definitely not least, we have Valentijnsdag! Valentine's Day is a day dedicated to love and affection. It's a great opportunity to show the special people in your life how much you care about them. In 2026, Valentine's Day falls on a Saturday, which is perfect for a romantic getaway, a special dinner, or simply spending quality time with your loved one. Whether you're in a relationship or not, Valentine's Day is a great excuse to spread some love and kindness. It's a time to celebrate all the relationships in your life, whether it's with your partner, your family, or your friends. In essence, Valentine's Day is about appreciating the people you love and letting them know how much you care.

So, how to celebrate Valentine's Day? Well, that depends on you and your loved ones. You could plan a romantic dinner, exchange gifts, or simply spend some quality time together. Going out to a restaurant can be a lovely way to celebrate, but make sure you book in advance, as places fill up quickly. However, you don't necessarily have to spend a lot of money to make it a special day. A homemade meal, a thoughtful card, or a simple gesture of affection can be just as meaningful. For those who aren't in a romantic relationship, Valentine's Day can still be a day of celebration. You can spend time with your friends, family, or even just treat yourself to something nice. It's a great day to show yourself some love and appreciation. Buy yourself some flowers, watch your favorite movie, or just relax and do something that makes you happy. The key is to celebrate in a way that feels authentic to you. Valentine's Day is not just for romantic relationships; it's about showing love and appreciation to all the people in your life. This could include your friends, family, or even your pets. It's about letting those important people know how much you care about them.

Valentijnsdag Tips & Tricks:

• Plan ahead: Book restaurants and activities well in advance.
• Personalize your gifts: Thoughtful gifts are always appreciated.
• Make it romantic: Create a special atmosphere with candles, music, and a delicious meal.
• Spend quality time: Turn off your phones and focus on each other.
• Don't forget the flowers: A classic for a reason!

Planning for the Feestdagen

Okay, so we've covered the main holidays, now let's talk about planning. The key to enjoying these feestdagen is to start planning early. Make a list of all the holidays you want to celebrate, and then start brainstorming ideas. What do you want to do? Who do you want to spend time with? What activities or events are you interested in? And if you are planning on going on a trip, be sure to book your accommodation and transportation well in advance. Keep in mind that January and February can be cold months in many places. So, make sure you pack accordingly, especially if you're planning on spending time outdoors. Also, don't forget to factor in travel time and potential delays. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get the best deals and availability. Also, think about your budget. Holidays can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much you want to spend on gifts, activities, and food, and then plan accordingly. There are plenty of ways to celebrate these holidays without breaking the bank. Finally, don't forget to take some time for yourself. Holidays can be busy and overwhelming, so it's important to make sure you take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and make time for relaxation. Do things that make you happy. This could include things like reading a book, going for a walk, or simply spending time with loved ones. Taking care of your well-being will make the holidays much more enjoyable. So, get those calendars out, start planning, and get ready for a fantastic start to 2026! Remember to embrace the spirit of each holiday, and make the most of those special moments. The planning is almost as fun as the holidays themselves. So, enjoy the process, and get ready for a memorable start to the year!

General Planning Tips:

• Set a Budget: Determine how much you want to spend on each holiday.
• Make Reservations: Book restaurants, events, and travel early.
• Plan Activities: Decide what you want to do and where you want to go.
• Book Accommodations: Arrange your lodging well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Stay Flexible: Be prepared for unexpected changes and adapt your plans as needed. Enjoy the holidays!