Merry Everything: Why We All Need a Second Christmas Day

The National Van de Kamp Christmas vacation has officially begun. Here's my annual video e-card - and some thoughts on the Dutch "Tweede Kerstdag".

Merry Everything

This year, let’s embrace inclusivity in all its forms—not just in holiday greetings but in the way we approach the entire season. From my corner of the world to yours, I wish you a Merry Everything.

I hope you’ll celebrate a holiday season filled with joy, adventure, and memories worth sharing. This time of year is about more than just gifts and glitter—it’s about connection, reflection, and maybe even rethinking how we celebrate. And as I dive into my annual holiday break, I have one suggestion:

Let’s take some advice from the Dutch and introduce the world to "Second Christmas Day."

Why the World Needs a Second Christmas Day

In the Netherlands, Christmas doesn’t end after Christmas dinner. There’s no mad rush to return unwanted gifts or scramble for post-holiday sales like Boxing Day in North America. Instead, the Dutch celebrate "Eerste en Tweede Kerstdag" (First and Second Christmas Day). It’s not about spending more money—it’s about spending more time.

Second Christmas Day is a chance to slow down, enjoy a relaxed meal, or visit friends and family (in-laws?) you didn’t get (or want) to see on the 25th. It’s about creating space to celebrate togetherness without the pressure to shop or outdo one another. Imagine a world where we extend the spirit of Christmas just a little longer, making room for more connection and less consumerism. Doesn’t that sound like a tradition worth adopting?

It’s Beginning to Cost a Lot Like Christmas 🎄

Let’s face it—the holidays can be expensive. And while it’s okay to splurge on yourself or others, it’s not a requirement to overspend just to prove your love. Part of the beauty of a Second Christmas Day is that it shifts the focus from material gifts to meaningful experiences. Instead of a Boxing Day dedicated to returning unwanted presents or buying more stuff, why not use that extra day to create lasting memories? Because maybe Christmas doesn’t come in a box…and that’s perfectly okay.

“Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before! What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!”
― Dr. Seuss, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Wishing You a First-Class New Year

As we say goodbye to 2024 and step into 2025, my hope for you is a year that feels like a first-class adventure. May it be filled with trips worth taking, stories worth writing, and memories worth sharing.

And if you’re like me, maybe your New Year’s resolution is to stay connected. Can I send you my weekly newsletter this Friday? Let’s keep in touch and make 2025 unforgettable together.

Cheers to Second Christmas Day… and to a year full of possibilities. 💕