Good Friday

Good Friday falls on the Friday before Easter and is not an official day off, but is increasingly observed by employers.

Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and has been observed since the early Christian church. In the predominantly Protestant Netherlands, the day held a special status for centuries: Reformed communities marked Good Friday with austere church services, prayer, and mourning, while Catholics observed it with fasting. Good Friday is not a public holiday in the Netherlands, but many companies, especially in finance and education, give their employees the day off. The trend toward recognising it as a day off has been clearly visible in recent CAO negotiations.

In the Netherlands, Good Friday is observed in various ways. Churches hold special services, ranging from austere Protestant observances to the Stations of the Cross in Catholic parishes. Towns such as Tegelen and Hertme stage elaborate passion plays that draw thousands of spectators. Many Dutch people use the day as the start of the Easter weekend, combining it with leave days to create a long break.