New Year's Day

New Year's Day, or *Nieuwjaarsdag* in Dutch, is celebrated on January 1st in the Netherlands as a public holiday, marking the beginning of the new year. The festivities often begin on New Year's Eve (*Oudejaarsavond*), with lively parties, fireworks, and gatherings with family and friends. A popular tradition is *oliebollen* (deep-fried dough balls) and *appelbeignets* (apple fritters), which are enjoyed as festive treats. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky across the country, and people toast with champagne or *glühwein* (mulled wine). On New Year's Day, many Dutch people take it easy, often enjoying a relaxed day with family, while some participate in the *Nieuwjaarsduik* (New Year's Dive), a tradition where brave individuals plunge into icy waters to start the year fresh. It’s a time for reflection, resolutions, and celebrating new beginnings.