Traditions that warm the heart
The Christmas season is the perfect opportunity to find inspiration and celebrate the little and big moments of joy. For the 2nd Advent, we invite you to cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and explore the special traditions of the Netherlands and Denmark. These countries show just how enchanting and diverse the Advent season can be.
Christmas Magic in the Netherlands
The Netherlands celebrates the Advent season with plenty of heart and sparkle – and two special traditions. On Christmas Eve, families gather around the television, cozy up under warm blankets, and enjoy the annual TV special All You Need Is Love. This emotional program, filled with reunions and surprises, brings families and loved ones together and fills the holiday with heartfelt Christmas cheer.
But the festive joy starts even earlier: a visit to the local garden center is a cherished tradition for many families. These centers transform into sparkling winter wonderlands with lovingly crafted Christmas displays, glittering trees, and whimsical decorations. After wandering through these enchanting settings, visitors often enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and a slice of delicious Hollandse Appeltaart in the garden center cafés – the perfect end to a magical holiday outing.
Whether in front of the TV or exploring a Christmas wonderland, the Netherlands focuses on creating shared moments of joy during the holiday season.
Cozy Christmas in Denmark
When December begins in Denmark, the month fills with special traditions that bring festive warmth. Two culinary highlights take center stage: Æbleskiver and Klejner.
Æbleskiver – small, round apple pancakes – are traditionally served with sugar and jam, often accompanied by a warm cup of Glögg, the Danish version of mulled wine. For the perfect Christmas mood, families bake Æbleskiver together using a special pan and invite friends and family for a cozy Advent Sunday gathering.
Klejner, a bow-shaped pastry fried in fat, is another Danish Christmas delicacy. One of the oldest traditional holiday treats, Klejner are only available during Christmas, making them a must-have seasonal delight.
Another beloved Danish tradition is the Julekalender, or Christmas calendar, on TV. Each evening, an episode of the Christmas series airs, creating a festive atmosphere as families eagerly tune in. There are typically two calendars: one for children, often featuring a catchy Christmas pop song, and one for adults, blending humor and nostalgia.
In Denmark, the essence of Christmas is perfectly summed up in a single Danish word: hyggelig – cozy, warm, and filled with joy.
Inspiration for Your Christmas Season
The Dutch and Danish Christmas traditions show us just how heartwarming and creative the Advent season can be. Whether it’s an emotional TV special, festive delicacies, or a shared Advent ritual, it’s the little and big moments that make Christmas unforgettable.
Wishing you a peaceful 2nd Advent filled with inspiration and cozy moments!
Your pCon Team