Whit Sunday, also known as Pentecost, is a significant Christian holiday observed in the Netherlands and many other countries around the world. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, as described in the Bible's New Testament. Whit Sunday is considered the birthday of the Christian Church, marking the moment when the disciples began to spread Jesus' teachings.
The Netherlands, like many European countries, celebrates Whit Sunday as a public holiday. It is generally celebrated with special church services, processions, and religious ceremonies. In some areas, Whit Sunday is also the start of local carnivals, festivals, or other communal activities. The occasion is usually accompanied by singing of specific hymns and songs, bible readings, and other spiritual practices.
Over time, Whit Sunday has come to mark the beginning of the summer season in the Netherlands. Besides its religious significance, it also carries cultural and agricultural implications. It was traditionally linked with new life and fertility, and many folk customs associated with the holiday correlate to these themes. In a contemporary context, the long weekend provided by Whit Sunday and the following Whit Monday is also seen as an opportunity for family outings and short holidays.