Five surprising birthday traditions
1. Everybody close to you will be congratulated
Your parents, spouse, aunt. Even though it is your birthday everyone close to you also earns some credit. Simply say: Gefelicitieerd!
2. You must host your own party
A typical Dutch birthday includes tea and cake, and afterwards some sort of a meal. Although, Dutchies prefer to serve pies orlocal tarts calledvlaaiinstead of cake.You will typically serve your guests in a circle during the tea and cake part. At the table, there is no "help yourself" option. Since you are the birthday person, it is expected of you to serve and provide. And to pay for everything...
3. Joining the Circle
During the birthday celebration people sit in a circle set up in the living room instead of walking around and mingle with other guests. That is why Dutch birthday parties are known as “circle parties”.
4. Open gifts immediately
People will open your gifts right away in front of everyone, keep that in mind! Some typical presents are: gift vouchers, flowers, chocolate, wine, books, care products, a weekend away or a workshop.
5. Bringing treats to co-workers
In most cultures,birthday celebrants can expect to get some treats or presents from the workplace. However, in the Netherlands, birthday celebrants have to bring their own treats to share with their colleagues.
