Hey guys! Are you already thinking about 2026? It might seem far off, but the holidays will be here before you know it. Planning ahead is always a good idea, especially when it comes to holidays. This guide will give you the lowdown on all the feestdagen (holidays) in januari (January) and februari (February) of 2026. Knowing what's coming up can help you plan your travels, social gatherings, or just some well-deserved relaxation. Let's dive in and take a look at what the beginning of 2026 has in store for us.

Januari 2026: Start van het Nieuwe Jaar en Meer

Nieuwjaarsdag: Een Frisse Start

Okay, let's kick things off with Nieuwjaarsdag (New Year's Day) on January 1st. This is a public holiday in the Netherlands and a day for resting and reflecting. Expect most shops and businesses to be closed, so make sure you've got everything you need beforehand. It's a day for family gatherings, enjoying the leftovers from New Year's Eve, or maybe just lounging on the couch. The first day of the year is all about a fresh start, so it's a great time to set some resolutions or goals. It's a moment to look forward to the possibilities of the coming year! A lot of people enjoy watching the New Year's Dive (Nieuwjaarsduik) in Scheveningen. This iconic event is a true tradition and a great way to start the year. In 2026, Nieuwjaarsdag falls on a Thursday, so it's possible to extend the holiday with a day off on Friday, leading to a long weekend. You know what they say: a great way to start the year with a bang. Remember to plan for traffic delays if you are traveling, as many people will be on the road.

Setting realistic goals is key. Don't overwhelm yourself with too much. Maybe start with small changes, like drinking more water, exercising a little bit each day, or reading a book a week. And it is important that the plan is in line with your lifestyle. Make sure it's something you can actually stick to! You could use this time to reflect on the past year as well. Think about what went well and what you might want to change. What did you learn? What are you grateful for? Nieuwjaarsdag is a good day to practice mindfulness and gratitude. The fresh start feeling of January 1st is an invitation to begin with a clean slate. So embrace it! This is your chance to make the next 12 months your best ones yet. Start the New Year with a bang, whether that means a quiet day at home or a fun event with friends.

Overige Feestdagen in Januari

Besides Nieuwjaarsdag, there aren't any other official public holidays in January in the Netherlands. However, that doesn't mean there aren't any opportunities for fun! Depending on the year, there might be cultural events and festivals taking place. Keep an eye on local event listings to see what's happening in your area. The month of January is often a bit quieter after the holiday rush, so it's a good time to catch up on some rest, visit museums, or spend time with loved ones. It is important to note that even though there aren't more public holidays, other significant days might be marked in the calendars, like the day you celebrate your birthday, or any special moments you share with your dear ones. It's a good time to start new hobbies and projects. How about learning a new language or starting a creative writing course? With the hectic holiday season behind us, the beginning of the year is often a good time to set up new habits, organize the house, and focus on the things that matter most.

January is usually associated with the winter period, which means you have the perfect excuse to enjoy the cozy atmosphere indoors. You can start reading that new book you just bought, or take some time to catch up on your favorite TV shows. Also, you could go out and explore the cold winter landscape. A brisk walk in the crisp air can do wonders for your well-being. Think about going on a skiing trip! January is usually a great month for skiing, as there is snow in the mountains. You can consider this option. And, of course, the winter sales are usually in full swing in January. It's a great time to shop for deals on clothing, electronics, and other items.

Februari 2026: Carnavals en Valentijnsdag

Carnaval: Een Kleurrijk Feest

Alright, let's move on to februari! This month is packed with fun and colors! A big highlight in February is Carnaval (Carnival), especially in the southern provinces of the Netherlands. The dates for Carnival change each year, so it's essential to check the specific dates for 2026. Typically, Carnival takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday. It’s a time for parades, costumes, music, dancing, and of course, a lot of fun. If you've never experienced Carnival, it's definitely something to add to your bucket list. The atmosphere is unique, and everyone is in high spirits. If you plan to attend a Carnival celebration, be prepared to dress up in a costume, join the crowds, and celebrate with the locals. During the festivities, many towns and villages organize parades with colorful floats, costumes, and music. Don't be afraid to sing along with the music, even if you don't know the lyrics. The most important thing is to enjoy the moment! Some regions, like Limburg and Noord-Brabant, are particularly known for their extravagant Carnival celebrations. It's not just a party; it's a deep-rooted cultural tradition.

Carnival is more than just dressing up and going to parties. It’s also about community spirit, creating a sense of togetherness, and breaking from the everyday routine. The communities prepare for the whole year to make the event the best it can be. If you are not familiar with the local traditions, don’t be shy about asking questions and joining in the fun. The locals usually are more than happy to explain what's going on. Carnival is a great opportunity to get a taste of Dutch culture. It is an amazing experience, even if you are not from the Netherlands. The main focus is to laugh and celebrate. The festivities bring together people from all walks of life. From children to the elderly, everybody joins the parade.

Valentijnsdag: Vier de Liefde

And let's not forget Valentijnsdag (Valentine's Day) on February 14th. This is a day to celebrate love and affection. It's a chance to show your loved ones how much you care, whether it's your partner, friends, or family. It's a great opportunity to make that special someone feel appreciated! Typically, people exchange cards, flowers, chocolates, or other gifts. Many restaurants are fully booked on Valentine's Day, so it is important to make a reservation in advance if you want to go out for a romantic dinner. It is a time for couples to show their love for each other. You could give your partner a romantic gift. From a simple card to a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Or you could plan a romantic date night. Enjoying a movie night, or preparing a delicious meal at home. If you're single, Valentine's Day can be a good time to celebrate the love you have for yourself and your friends.

Remember, Valentine's Day is not just for romantic relationships. It's about celebrating love in all its forms. Spending time with friends and family, expressing your love for your parents or siblings. You could also organize a Galentine's Day party for your best friends and celebrate friendship. Or just simply dedicate some time to show gratitude for the people who are in your life. Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is all about expressing kindness and appreciation to the people who matter the most. Valentine's Day can be celebrated in any way you want, depending on your personality and preferences. The important thing is to make it a special day for yourself and the people you care about.

Overige Feestdagen in Februari

Similar to January, February doesn't have any other official public holidays. The second month of the year can be a great time to take advantage of the quiet atmosphere to get some quality time. Use this time to recharge your batteries, discover some new hobbies, or dedicate yourself to a personal project. It’s a perfect time to reflect on your goals for the year, and create some new ones. You can start new habits. This can be the perfect time to start reading a book. Make a plan to visit museums or art galleries. Start learning a new language or any other new activity that you have always wanted to try.

During February, the weather is still cold and the days are getting longer. This can be the perfect time to enjoy some fun winter activities. Maybe you could plan a weekend trip to a cozy destination. Maybe you could enjoy a winter walk in the forest or at the seaside. Or why not enjoy your free time by visiting the local cinema to watch the latest films. You could simply choose to relax, and start that book you have always wanted to read. February is a time to reconnect with yourself. Think about the things you are passionate about, and make them your priority. By taking time for yourself, you will be able to start the coming months with a lot of energy. This can have a huge positive impact on your well-being.

Planning Your 2026 Holidays

Check the Calendar

Always double-check the exact dates of the holidays as the year gets closer. You can find this information on the official government websites or reliable news sources. Pay attention to how the holidays fall during the week. This will help you plan your time off effectively. Look for opportunities to combine a holiday with a weekend. This can provide you with a long weekend. Great for a short trip, or for some extra time to relax. Make sure you book your travels and accommodations in advance. Especially during popular holiday periods. If you are planning to travel, make sure you take into account the extra traffic and crowds that you can encounter during these days.

Budgeting and Resources

Start planning your budget in advance. Figure out how much you are able to spend on holiday activities. Whether it is for travel, gifts, or other expenses. Make sure to set a budget. This will help you to prevent any overspending. Make use of online resources. You can check the availability of special offers. Many websites offer deals on accommodation, flights, and activities. This can help you to save money. If you want to organize a party or event, it is important to plan everything in advance. You can prepare a list of guests, activities, and food. Make sure to start the invitations in advance. Make sure your guests will receive them on time. If you decide to go on a trip, it is important to buy travel insurance. This will protect you from any unexpected situations, such as medical emergencies or canceled flights.

Make the Most of Your Time

Make plans, but also leave room for spontaneity. Sometimes the best moments happen when you least expect them. Whether you are traveling or staying home, it's important to make the most of your time. This can mean trying new things, visiting new places, or simply relaxing and enjoying the company of your loved ones. Make sure to schedule some quality time. It can be useful to dedicate some time to yourself. You could try meditation or other relaxation techniques. If you are planning an event or get-together, make sure to consider the needs of all the attendees. The key to a successful holiday is to approach it with a positive attitude. Be open to new experiences and enjoy every moment. With a little bit of planning, you can make 2026 a year to remember.

Conclusie: Maak Je Klaar Voor Januari en Februari 2026!

So there you have it, guys! A sneak peek at the feestdagen in januari and februari 2026. Remember to mark your calendars, start planning, and get ready for a fun-filled start to the year. Whether you're a fan of Nieuwjaarsdag festivities, Carnaval celebrations, or a romantic Valentine's Day, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the holidays! With a little planning and a positive attitude, you can make the most of the first two months of 2026. Happy planning, and have a fantastic time!