As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, the Netherlands transforms into a kaleidoscope of cultures, each bringing its unique set of customs and rituals to celebrate the New Year. Among the country’s largest migrant groups, the Dutch culture is enriched by the traditions of communities from various corners of the globe.
In this article, we will delve into the customs and rituals of the biggest migrant groups in the Netherlands during the New Year festivities, including the newcomers from Syria and Ukraine.
Surinamese Community: Surinamese New Year celebrations are marked by vibrant music, dance, and delicious food. The Surinamese community often organizes lively street parties, complete with traditional Surinamese and Caribbean tunes. To wish someone a Happy New Year in Surinamese, you can say “Wan bun Nyunjari!”. Also the Afro-Surinamese tend have a ritual bath with their families. This is a bath prepaired with flowers, sprititual oils and Florida Water perfume. This custom originates from te Fanta Akan culture which travelled during the Trans Atlantic Slavery with the enslaved Africans.
Turkish Community: The Turkish community in the Netherlands holds family at the center of their New Year celebrations. As the clock approaches midnight, families gather for a lavish dinner featuring traditional Turkish dishes. After the meal, they often light fireworks to symbolize the joy of new beginnings. To wish someone a Happy New Year in Turkish, one would say “Yeni Yılınız Kutlu Olsun!”
Moroccan Community: Moroccan households embrace the New Year as a time for spiritual reflection and renewal. Families engage in prayers and visit mosques to seek blessings for the upcoming year. Moroccan sweets and pastries are shared among family and friends. In Moroccan Arabic, “سنة جديدة سعيدة” (Sana Jdida Saeida) is the expression for a Happy New Year.
Syrian Community: Syrian migrants, having brought their rich cultural heritage to the Netherlands, celebrate the New Year with a blend of traditional customs and newfound traditions. Families gather for festive meals, often featuring dishes like kibbeh and baklava. In Arabic, “كل عام وأنتم بخير” (Kul ‘am wa antum bikhair) is the expression used to wish a Happy New Year.
Ukrainian Community: New Year celebrations in Ukraine are deeply rooted in folklore and superstitions. Ukrainians often partake in rituals believed to bring good fortune, such as writing down their wishes and burning them in a symbolic act of manifestation. The phrase “Щасливого Нового Року” (Schastlyvoho Novoho Roku) conveys the wish for a Happy New Year in Ukrainian.
The ongoing war in both Syria and Ukrain didnt give these new migrants in Holland reason to give big parties..
As these diverse communities come together to celebrate, the Netherlands becomes a melting pot of traditions, fostering unity and understanding among its people. The exchange of warm wishes and greetings in various languages symbolizes the inclusive spirit of the New Year.
In addition to these traditional customs, the Dutch as a whole engage in a unique New Year’s Eve tradition known as “oliebollen.” These are deep-fried sweet dumplings sprinkled with powdered sugar, enjoyed by people from all walks of life as they gather to watch the spectacular fireworks displays lighting up the Dutch skies.
In the midst of these multicultural celebrations, it is heartening to witness the fusion of old and new, as migrant communities share their customs while embracing the diversity of their adopted homeland. The Netherlands, with its open-minded and welcoming ethos, continues to weave a rich tapestry of cultures that contributes to the inclusive nature of its society.
As the clock strikes midnight and fireworks illuminate the night sky, the people of the Netherlands, from various backgrounds, come together to usher in the New Year with joy, hope, and a celebration of their shared humanity. So, whether you say “Gelukkig Nieuwjaar,” “Yeni Yılınız Kutlu Olsun,” “سنة جديدة سعيدة,” or any other expression, the sentiment remains the same – a wish for happiness, prosperity, and unity in the coming year.
