Traditions that bring people together
- 12 February 2026
The Netherlands Kings Day
For Beau de Graaf, consultant at Conclusion Consulting, Kings Day was a real family celebration when she was a child. “I would sit on a blanket with my family selling old toys and of course I would wander across the market myself.” These days she celebrates with friends in Utrecht or Amsterdam, among the boats and bright orange festivities. “Everyone is cheerful, everything is orange, it is pure fun. And yes, an orange tompouce is definitely part of it, I used to make them myself, now I simply buy them. A tradition stays a tradition!”
South Africa Heritage Day
On Heritage Day, South Africans come together to celebrate the rich diversity of traditions that make the country so special. It is a day full of great food, music, dance and stories. Whether you gather with family or join lively neighbourhood events, Heritage Day is all about embracing diversity, honouring traditions and celebrating the vibrant mix of cultures that make South Africa unique.
For Dorcas Mbi, software developer at Lalandi Conclusion, this is her favourite holiday: “Heritage Day means a lot to me because it celebrates the different traditions and cultures that make South Africa such a rich country. It reminds me how many people from all kinds of sectors contribute to the growth and development of our country.”
Portugal Santos Populares
Bruno Andrade, SAP Basis Consultant at Score Conclusion, and Inês Nabais, Head of Legal at Neotalent Conclusion, celebrate Santos Populares, a festival where music, the smell of sardines and Portuguese tradition fill the streets. It comes with street parties, dancing, parades, food and drinks. The celebration brings people together, blends religious and folk rituals and strengthens the sense of community. On these days it is common to jump over bonfires, buy a plastic hammer or walk through the streets handing out playful hammer taps.
The Netherlands Carnaval
For Arend Logger, senior Solution Architect at Yellowtail Conclusion, Carnaval is mainly a celebration of friendship and nostalgia. Every year he heads to Den Bosch with his close group of friends, the city where he grew up. No longer five days, but two full days of fun, dressed in a traditional kiel with emblems. "The best part is seeing everyone again, including old familiar faces. Everyone wears the same outfit, which is what makes Carnaval in Oeteldonk so special, no differences for a moment, just enjoying it together. And yes, a beer is definitely part of it."
Germany Oktoberfest
Laughter, music and new friends. Every autumn, Germany transforms into one big celebration of tradition and fun. Oktoberfest is not just about beer, but about enjoying time together. People put on their traditional clothing, sing along to well known songs, enjoy pretzels and other treats and raise their glasses together. For Nadine Nelson, office manager at diva-e Conclusion in Munich, it is a special experience: “Oktoberfest is the place where strangers become friends in just one evening, it is pure magic.” Whether you come for the music, the food or the atmosphere, you always go home with great memories and a smile.
Spain Festas de San Fermín
In Pamplona, Carlos Guisado, Business Manager at Neotalent Conclusion, experiences San Fermín the way it is meant to be, with white clothing, a red scarf and a heart full of Spanish festivity. Every July, Pamplona becomes the beating heart of the Festas de San Fermín. Famous for the encierro, where people run ahead of the bulls through the historic city centre, but also known for the music, parades, fireworks and an abundance of red wine. Both locals and visitors dress in white with the classic red scarf and celebrate until the early hours. “San Fermín is something you feel with your heart in your hand. It is emotion, tradition and community like nowhere else.”
Bulgaria Martenitsa
A small bracelet filled with hope. In Bulgaria, spring is welcomed with a modest but meaningful tradition. On 1 March people give each other red and white bracelets called Martenitsa. They symbolise health, happiness and a fresh start. You wear them until you see a stork or a blossoming tree, then you tie the bracelet to a branch and make a wish. For Rossen Stefanov, Expert software developer & Team Lead at diva‑e Conclusion in Sofia, it is a very personal moment: “Martenitsa feels like a hug from your culture, small, full of meaning and love.”
Vragen?
Diane Breure
- Recruiter
