Preparing for Daylight Savings Time (Sunday, October 27, 2024)
As we head into the heart of Autumn, don’t forget that the Netherlands shifts to standard time on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Clocks will move back an hour, giving you a little extra sleep! This change can also affect calls with family in different time zones—so be careful, or you might end up calling your grandmother at an awkward 9 PM instead of 8 PM.
With the shorter days, you may find yourself commuting in the dark more often. Make sure your bike lights are in working order to stay safe and avoid receiving a fine.
Understanding the Dutch Weather Warning
The Netherlands uses a color-coded system to warn the public about severe weather conditions: yellow, orange, and red alerts. These can indicate anything from heavy rain to strong winds and even frost. To stay informed, you can check updates on the KNMI website and monitor real-time forecasts or check for incoming rain spells using Buienradar.
Enjoy Autumn Colours in Your Local Forest
Autumn is a beautiful time of year in the Netherlands. Across the country, local forests transform into a display of vibrant autumn colors. Whether you’re taking a leisurely walk or a bike ride, it’s a great way to enjoy the cooler weather and the breathtaking scenery. Notable forests like the Amsterdamse Bos, Hoge Veluwe National Park, and Veluwezoom National Park are perfect for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage but there are countless others to explore across the country.
The Dutch also believe in “uitwaaien”, which directly translates to “blow out” but is used to mean “walking in the wind.” It’s a tradition where people go out in the cool, often breezy air to clear their minds and refresh their spirits. Whether by the coast or in the countryside, uitwaaien is a great way to unwind and get comfortable with the cool wind of the Netherlands.
Museums and Amsterdam’s Museum Night
As the weather cools down, the Netherlands’ many museums are the perfect places to visit. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, the country’s rich cultural offerings have something for everyone. Consider getting a Museum Card (Museumjaarkaart), which grants access to over 400 museums across the country. You can find more information about the pass here. You can visit this helpful IamExpat directory to discover museums near you.
For a truly unique experience, don’t miss Amsterdam’s Museum Night (Museumnacht), held on the first Saturday of November. Museums stay open late into the night, offering special tours, performances, and art workshops. It’s a perfect evening of culture, music, and socializing. Tickets and event information can be found here.
Conclusion
As the weather cools down, the Dutch love for coziness will start to shine. Homes will soon be filled with the warm glow of candles, jars of peppernoten will pop up around your office, and streets will twinkle with festive lights and the smell of oliebollen. The Netherlands is known for embracing cooler weather—so grab a pair of gloves for those chilly morning bike rides and enjoy all the comforts the season has to offer.