• Dutch manners are frank which can be described as a no-nonsense attitude, informality combined with adherence to basic etiquette. This might be perceived as impersonal by some other cultures but is the norm of the Dutch culture. As always, manners differ between groups. Asking about basic rules will not be considered impolite
• Shake hands with everyone present – men, women, and children – at business and social meetings. Shake hands again when leaving. Introduce yourself if no one is present to introduce you. The Dutch consider it rude when you do not identify yourself
•  The Dutch value privacy and seldom speak to strangers. It is more likely that they will wait for you to make the first move. Do not be afraid to do so
•  The Dutch expect eye contact while speaking with someone
• Food does not play a major role in hospitality as it does in many other cultures. It is not considered essential for making someone feel welcome. Do not expect to be served a meal unless the invitation specifically mentions a meal
• Men should wait until all women are seated before they sit. Allow the hostess to start eating and drinking before you eat
• The Dutch prefer fashions that are casual, unpretentious, conservative and subdued. A traditional suit and tie are required only in certain circles of business and government
• When invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift for the hostess. Bring children a small gift or candy. Sending flowers before or after the party is also appropriate

The Netherlands has only a few official public or bank holidays. Most of them take place between April and May. Here you have an overview:

• 1 January: New Year’s Day
• March/April: Easter
• 27 April: King’s Day
• 5 May: Liberation Day (it is a national holiday only every five years)
• 40 days after Easter: Ascension Day
• 7 weeks after Easter: Pentecost
• 5 December: Saint Nicolas’ Eve
• 25-26 December: Christmas

During the evening of 4 May each year, the Dutch commemorate civilians and members of the armed forces of the Kingdom of the Netherlands who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since the beginning of World War II. This commemoration is called Dodenherdenking (Remembrance of the Dead). There is a national ceremony at the Dam in Amsterdam where the King and Queen are present. At 20.00 there is a two-minute silence which is respected all over the country. The ceremony in Amsterdam is broadcast live.

On 5 May the Dutch celebrate the liberation of the Netherlands from Nazi Germany in 1945. They understand the importance of freedom, democracy and human rights. This day is not necessarily a day off from work. If people do get the day off it depends on the agreements made by their employer and trade unions. Usually, it is agreed that employees receive a day off every  five years.

Activities are organised all over the country and these differ from one town to another.