May break 2026
Region North
–
May break
The may break 2026 runs from 25 April to 3 May.
The May break lasts about two weeks and runs from late April into early May. Despite its name, it almost always starts in April.
All regions share the same dates. It is one of the longer holidays outside of summer and coincides with the best spring weather.
The tulip fields in the Bollenstreek between Leiden and Haarlem are in full bloom during this period, making the area a hugely popular destination. Ascension Day sometimes falls within the May break, providing an extra day off for working parents.
Activities during the may break
It is the perfect time to head outdoors: cycling, camping, and enjoying the first beach days along the Dutch coast. King's Day on 27 April almost always falls within the May break, bringing flea markets, festivals and orange-clad celebrations across the country.
Liberation Day (5 May) sometimes falls within the break as well. Keukenhof in Lisse, one of the largest flower gardens in the world, is at its most spectacular during these weeks and draws visitors from across the globe.
Cycling along the rivers Rhine and Maas is particularly appealing in spring. Many towns organise outdoor festivals and flea markets, and children can enjoy treasure hunts and nature activities organised by Staatsbosbeheer (the national forestry service).
Practical info about the may break
King's Day means adjusted public transport and closed-off streets in major cities. Campsites and holiday parks along the coast fill up quickly around this period.
Book early if you plan to stay in the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, large parts of the city centre are closed to traffic on King's Day, and the canals fill up with boats.
Tickets for Keukenhof are only available online and often sell out days in advance. The weather in April and May can still be changeable, so layered clothing and a rain jacket are wise.
Many employers offer a bridge day around King's Day or Ascension Day, which can make roads busier than usual.
Did you know this about the may break?
The holiday is officially called "meivakantie" (May break) even though it starts in late April almost every year. The name is a historical artefact that was never updated to match the actual dates.
King's Day was only introduced in 2014 in honour of King Willem-Alexander. Before that, it was called Queen's Day and celebrated on 30 April.
Liberation Day on 5 May commemorates the capitulation of Nazi Germany in 1945, and every five years it is an officially recognised day off for all employees. Keukenhof, which showcases millions of tulips each spring, was founded in 1950 by mayors from the Bollenstreek region.