Whit Monday, or Pentecost Monday, is a Christian holiday that falls on the day after Pentecost, which is also known as Whitsunday or Whit Sunday. It's the final holiday in the Christian season of Pentecost which commemorates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the early Christians, according to the New Testament of the Bible. As a widely observed public holiday in the Netherlands, it often marks the onset of the spring season, when people in many areas enjoy outdoor activities.
On Whit Monday, the Dutch traditionally go out for a long walk in the countryside, often by the sea or in a forest. These walks are usually combined with picnics or barbecues, making it a popular day for family outings. Many cities and towns also host various outdoor events and festivals. Horse markets, artisanal fairs, and concerts are some of the attractions commonly associated with this holiday. It's a time when the Dutch people celebrate not only the Christian tradition but also cherishing nature, environmental sustainability, and communal harmony.
Although it is a public holiday, essential services such as public transportation continue to operate on Whit Monday. However, most businesses, schools, and other institutions are closed. The holiday has also been associated with the tradition of baptism, symbolizing the initiation into the Christian faith. It's a day full of religious significance, cultural performances, family gatherings, and widespread interactions among people which makes it blissful for locals as well as tourists visiting the Netherlands.