Is Easter Friday a Public Holiday in the Netherlands?

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Good Friday in the Netherlands: A Public Holiday or Not?

Unlike some other countries, **Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag)** is not a nationwide public holiday in the Netherlands. While government employees and some schools get the day off, most businesses remain open.

Who Gets the Day Off?

Government employees: Offices are usually closed.
Banks and financial institutions: Some may close, but not all.
Businesses: Most remain open as usual.
Schools: Some schools have a holiday, while others don’t.

How is Good Friday Celebrated?

While not widely celebrated in a commercial sense, Good Friday is observed by churches across the country with religious services. The Netherlands is known for its secular culture, so the day is not marked by major public events.

Public Transport and Shops

Since Good Friday is not an official public holiday, **trains, buses, and metros operate on a normal schedule**, and shops remain open.

What About Easter Monday?

Unlike Good Friday, **Easter Monday (Tweede Paasdag)** is a public holiday, meaning most businesses and schools are closed. It’s a popular day for shopping, outdoor activities, and family gatherings.

Conclusion

If you’re an expat wondering whether you get a long Easter weekend, the answer depends on your employer. But don’t worry—**Easter Monday is an official day off for most people!**

Want to know more about public holidays in the Netherlands? Check out our full list of Dutch public holidays in 2025.

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