Although Valentine’s Day isn’t as big in the Netherlands as it is in the U.S., every year, there are more and more activities to celebrate. Whether this is because of the diverse expat community or because the Dutch are just simply catching on to this, the truth is that Valentine’s Day is making an appearance. This is why I have prepared the Dutch Valentine’s Day Survival Pack so you can tell your significant other how much you love them!

Photo found on Flickr.com created by DennisM2 with license CC0 1.0

What to say?

First of all, you need to know how to tell someone you love them. Ik hou van je is the standard ‘I love you’ phrase to know. You can call someone a schatje or a sweetie, mijn liefde or my love and even lekker ding if you want to tell someone they are attractive. You can find more pet names and loving nicknames in this previous post.

How to say it?

A great way to tell someone how much you love them is to sing for them. There are several romantic Dutch songs you can learn. The following are some good options. Check how these artists refer to their loved ones and how they are expressing what they feel.

Wat is Mijn Hart by Marco Borsato

Jij Bent de Liefde by Guus Meeuwis

Je Bent de Hemel by Tim Douwsma

Moppie by Lange Frans en Baas

What to do?

So you are in the Netherlands and want to plan something to do. You can always go for the standard dinner and movie. If you want to go for a Dutch movie, De Matchmaker might be a great choice as can Gek van Oranje.

If you are more into art, you can catch the showing of Tristan und Isolde at the Nationale Opera in Amsterdam. The Opera is in German but with English and Dutch subtitles.

There are also several museums offering romantic evenings for lovers of love and art! The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam is offering free entrance to their museum if you use the discount code “love” at the ticket office.

My favorite activity is by far the one from the Van Abbe Museum in Eindhoven. If your loved one is far away but wants to join you at the museum, you can schedule a visit using their robots. The robot will take your loved one (probably via skype) with you as you explore some amazing modern art exhibitions!

If you are short on budget or would much rather do something at home, Netflix and chill is a great option! There are several romantic Dutch movies on Netflix to pick from such as Soof, Hartenstraat, and Toscaanse Bruiloft.

How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day?