6 Ways The Dutch Celebrate Their Birthdays | The Odyssey Online
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6 Ways The Dutch Celebrate Their Birthdays

Yes, Its Real

Lucas Verbunt
Sep 24, 2017
Gustavus Adolphus College
163
6 Ways The Dutch Celebrate Their Birthdays
SBPractices

Last week it was my birthday, so now seems like a good time to tell all of you about some Dutch birthday customs. I had some international students at my party and sometimes they were quite confused about some things that we did. Without further ado, let's just dive into all of our crazy customs. They will blow your mind. (For the record, I do not celebrate this traditional way)

1. Sitting in a circle

We all sit in circles and talk about our life. Very 'gezellig', or not...

2. The birthday boy/girl has to treat the others

When it was your birthday you were supposed to treat your elemtary school classmates on a snack. Even though it was your birthday.

3. The plates with cheese, sausage and pickles

A typical Dutch birthday snack, there Always stays one uneat.

4. Wishing everyone 'Happy Birthday'

You congratulate everyone in the room with the birthday boy/girl. Not only the person whose birthday it is. Everyone present.

5. 'Vlaggetjes'

Always let everyone know that it's your birthday, with lots of vanes and balloons.

6. The 'slagroomtaart' with your name (or picture) on it

Yes. Whipped cream cake/pie with your picture on it. It's a thing.


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