Hey guys! Planning your year ahead? It's always a good idea to know when those holidays are coming up so you can start making some awesome plans. This article is all about feestdagen in januari en februari 2026, specifically for the Netherlands. Let's dive in and see what those first two months of the year have in store! We'll look at the official public holidays, any special days that might be celebrated, and how you can make the most of those precious days off. Knowing the holidays helps us plan for trips, family gatherings, or just a little extra relaxation. Plus, it's super helpful if you're trying to figure out when to take some vacation days to really maximize your time off. Let's get started and see what January and February 2026 are all about!

Januari 2026: Nieuwjaar en Meer

Alright, let's kick things off with January 2026. The most obvious holiday in January, of course, is Nieuwjaarsdag, or New Year's Day. It's a day for fresh starts, making resolutions (that we might or might not keep, haha!), and recovering from New Year's Eve celebrations. But apart from that, what else is happening in the Netherlands during January? Well, to be honest, January is generally a quieter month in terms of public holidays. The focus is usually on getting back into the swing of things after the Christmas and New Year break. But that doesn't mean there aren't things to do! Many people use this time to catch up with family and friends, enjoy cozy evenings at home, or maybe even start a new hobby. January is also a great time to take advantage of those post-holiday sales – score!

Another thing to consider is that while there aren't a ton of official holidays in January, lots of people might still have some extra time off work. This can be due to the holidays falling on weekends, or perhaps they've decided to take some vacation days to extend their New Year's break. This means that you might find that certain places, like museums or popular attractions, have adjusted opening hours. Therefore, it's always a good idea to double-check the operating times if you're planning a visit. The Dutch weather in January is, well, let's just say it can be a bit chilly. This makes it the perfect opportunity to visit indoor activities such as museums, theaters or enjoy a lovely cozy evening in a traditional Dutch 'café'. Therefore, while the official holiday list might be short in January, the opportunities for fun and relaxation are still plentiful. Make sure you're wrapped up warmly and ready to enjoy what the month has to offer!

Specifieke Datumsoverzicht voor Januari 2026

Okay, so let's get down to the nitty-gritty and specify the dates. As mentioned earlier, Nieuwjaarsdag is on January 1st, 2026. This is a public holiday, meaning most businesses and schools will be closed. It's a day for rest, reflection, and getting ready for the year ahead. Aside from Nieuwjaarsdag, there are no other official public holidays in January in the Netherlands. But, as we've said, the beauty of January is that you can decide how to spend your days off. Many people use the month to explore new interests, from learning a language to starting a fitness regime. Others use it to enjoy cultural experiences.

Remember to keep an eye on local events. While there might not be official holidays, there could still be special events, concerts, or markets happening around the Netherlands during January. Checking local websites and event listings is a good way to see what's on. Planning a winter getaway? January can be a great time for this. The crowds are usually smaller than in the peak summer months, and you can often find some great deals on accommodation and travel. If you prefer to stay closer to home, January is an ideal time to explore your own city or region. Visit places you have never been to before. You might be surprised at how much there is to discover in your own backyard! So, in a nutshell, while the holiday calendar may seem light in January, the possibilities are definitely not. Make sure you plan ahead, dress warmly, and be ready to enjoy the first month of the year.

Februari 2026: Carnaval en Meer

Now, let's turn our attention to February 2026! February is a month where things usually start to pick up a bit after the quiet of January. One of the biggest events in February, especially if you're in the southern parts of the Netherlands, is Carnaval. While Carnaval is not an official national holiday, it is a huge deal in many regions, with parades, parties, and celebrations taking place for several days. If you are not familiar with it, Carnaval is a festive period leading up to Lent, often marked by colorful costumes, street parades, and lots of music and dancing. If you're looking for a fun and unique experience, especially if you are up for some cultural adventure, then Carnaval is something you shouldn't miss. Keep in mind that Carnaval dates can vary from year to year, so check the specific dates for the region you want to visit.

February is also a great time to start thinking about spring. With the days getting a bit longer and the weather (hopefully) starting to warm up a bit, it's a good time to make plans for the upcoming months. You might start planning your spring garden, booking summer holidays, or just enjoying the promise of warmer weather. In the Netherlands, February can still be quite cold, but it is also a beautiful month. If you are into photography, take advantage of the beautiful landscape. While the Dutch landscape will not be the most colorful during this month, the grey and misty days can provide you with incredible results. In terms of national holidays, there are no official ones in February in the Netherlands. But with Carnaval being a huge event in certain regions, it is certainly a month full of opportunities for enjoyment. February is also a time to consider the upcoming spring break. Many people take a week or two off during this time to travel, relax or get involved in family activities. So keep an eye out for those school holiday dates as they can affect travel plans. Planning ahead is key here.

Specifieke Datumsoverzicht voor Februari 2026

Let's get into the specifics for February 2026. As mentioned, there are no official national holidays. However, the dates of Carnaval can definitely affect your plans. Carnaval typically starts on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. Since the date of Ash Wednesday varies, Carnaval dates also change from year to year. Make sure you check the specific Carnaval dates for the location you are interested in. Carnaval celebrations can range from a few days to a whole week. This means that if you are planning to travel during Carnaval, especially to areas where it is a big deal, such as Limburg or North Brabant, be sure to book your accommodation and travel in advance. This can be a busy period. Besides Carnaval, there may be some other events that you might be interested in. February is a good month to keep an eye on local festivals, markets, and cultural events. There are often special events to celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th, which could be anything from romantic dinners to special performances. If you are looking for outdoor activities, you might enjoy visiting some parks or gardens.

However, the weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast. One thing is for certain: February is a great time to appreciate the changing of the seasons and anticipate the warmer months ahead. So, even without national holidays, February offers you numerous opportunities for fun and entertainment. Whether you are into Carnaval celebrations, planning a romantic Valentine's Day, or exploring the cultural scene, this month offers a bit of something for everyone. Stay informed about the local events, and be prepared to make the most of February 2026.

Planning Tips voor je Feestdagen

Okay, guys, let's talk about some planning tips to make sure you have the best experience during the feestdagen in January and February 2026! First off, start planning early. The earlier you start, the better. This is especially true if you are planning on traveling, as you'll have a greater chance of getting the best deals on flights and accommodation. For instance, if you are looking to visit a certain city during Carnaval, make your bookings well in advance. Consider the weather. The Dutch weather in January and February can be cold and wet. Therefore, be sure to pack warm clothes, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes.

Also, keep an eye on the local events. Checking local websites and event listings can give you a better insight into what's happening. Many cities and regions will have special events or activities happening during the holiday periods. This way you'll discover something special, whether it's a local festival, a special market, or a performance. Consider your budget. Holidays can be expensive, so it's important to set a budget beforehand and stick to it. Determine how much you are willing to spend on travel, accommodation, food, and activities. Research the opening hours. This is especially important for public holidays when many shops, museums, and attractions may have altered opening hours. Check the official websites or contact the venues in advance to avoid any disappointment. If you are planning a trip, consider all your travel options. This can range from public transport, such as trains and buses, to car rentals and flights.

Praktische Tips voor het Maximaliseren van je Tijd

Okay, some more practical tips on how to make the most of your time off! Maximize the long weekends. If a holiday falls on a Friday or a Monday, this provides you with an opportunity to enjoy a long weekend. You can plan a short trip, a visit to a different city, or simply enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Make the most of your vacation days. Combine the official holidays with a few vacation days to extend your time off. Consider the option of taking a few days around the holidays to give yourself a longer break. Explore your interests. Use your free time to enjoy your hobbies, learn something new, or pursue activities you enjoy. It can be anything from reading books to attending a cooking class. Get out and about. If the weather permits, enjoy the outdoors. Go for a walk in the park, visit a nature reserve, or simply enjoy some fresh air.

Don't forget to relax! Holidays are meant to be relaxing. Make sure you create some time to unwind, de-stress, and simply enjoy doing nothing. This could involve spending time with loved ones, enjoying a delicious meal, or doing a bit of self-care. Prepare in advance. It's always a good idea to pack your bags and prepare any essentials the days before the holidays to reduce the stress and make your holiday even better. Stay informed about local events. Check the local event listings and local news to stay updated on the events happening in your area. This way you can plan for the best experiences during the holiday period. Stay flexible. Always be prepared for last-minute changes and have alternative plans in place. This will give you more flexibility to deal with any unexpected situations that may arise. Embrace the Dutch culture. The Netherlands has a rich history and a vibrant culture. Therefore, use your free time to explore the Dutch art, music, food and traditions to enhance your overall experience. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the most of your feestdagen in January and February 2026! Happy holidays, everyone!