Dutch-American Friendship Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Dutch-American Friendship Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Dutch-American Friendship Day is celebrated on April 19th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Dutch-American Friendship Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you might want to know about Dutch-American Friendship Day.

📅 What day is Dutch-American Friendship Day 2024?

In 2024, Dutch-American Friendship Day is on Wednesday, April 19th. It is the 3rd Wednesday in April; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the cool details and facts about April 19, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Dutch-American Friendship Day is observed annually on April 19th to celebrate the bond between the United States and the Netherlands. This special day marks the historical moment when the Netherlands became the first country to recognize America’s independence. In 1782, John Adams, who would later become the second US president, was officially appointed as the Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States by the States-General in The Hague. On that exact day, Adams also acquired a property in The Hague, which served as the inaugural American Embassy, making it the first of its kind in the world.

📜 Dutch-American Friendship Day History

John Adams was appointed by the States-General of the Dutch Republic on April 19, 1782, as the United States’ Minister to the Netherlands. This appointment marked the second diplomatic recognition of the United States as an independent nation. As the first ambassador to the Netherlands, Adams played a significant role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries. He signed the first Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and the Netherlands in the same year, which solidified their business ties and helped establish the United States as a sovereign state in the international community.

In 1982, President Ronald Reagan designated this day as Dutch-American Friendship Day, acknowledging the enduring and peaceful relationship between the two nations. The United States and the Netherlands continue to maintain strong economic ties and collaborate on various international and NATO operations. This special day not only honors the 4.5 million Americans of Dutch descent but also recognizes the sacrifices made by the United States to support the Netherlands’ independence. It symbolizes the shared ideals and values that the two countries celebrate.

✅ Dutch-American Friendship Day Facts

🔖 Home to several breweries
Heineken is one of the famous brewers that can be found in the Netherlands.

🔖 Dutch cheese
Gouda, Edam, and Reypenaer are some of the most famous types of cheese.

🔖 Traditional Dutch clothing
In the Netherlands, different regions have their own unique traditional clothing, which varies depending on whether it is worn for regular daily use or for special occasions such as weddings or funerals.

👍 Why Is Dutch-American Friendship Day Important

This day commemorates the day that the United States was recognized as an independent nation. The States-General of the Dutch Republic recognized Adams as Minister of the United States of America.

This day commemorates the partnership between the Netherlands and the United States. It is an occasion to honor the relationship that exists between Americans and the Dutch.

The Dutch helped shape the American idea of religious freedom. Religious freedom is seen as an intrinsic right in the United States. The truth is that many of the first settlers in the New World were fleeing religious persecution.

🙂 How To Observe Dutch-American Friendship Day

⚡ Follow #DutchAmericanFriendshipDay on social media
To keep yourself updated about the latest happenings on this day, make sure to follow this hashtag. There are numerous festivities happening across the country, so attending one would be a good idea!

⚡ Buy tulips
Tulips are considered the official flower of the Netherlands. Buying tulips can be seen as a way to pay tribute and commemorate Americans with Dutch heritage.

⚡ Cook stroopwafel
A stroopwafel is a type of dessert originating from Gouda, South Holland in the Netherlands. It consists of a thin, circular waffle that is filled with caramel and sandwiched between two layers of sweet, baked dough. Over time, stroopwafels have gained popularity and are now enjoyed as a beloved dessert.

📅 When is Dutch-American Friendship Day?

See all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Cultural and other 🔗 American holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Dutch-American Friendship Day. So be sure to check back soon.