Holiday calendar 2023-2024
Are you planning to go on vacation? Make sure you plan it right!
If you're starting your studies at Fontys, you'll likely want to know when you can take a break. We have prepared a holiday schedule for you. However, please be aware that your specific study programme might follow a different schedule. If you're looking to book a vacation, we recommend contacting the administrative office of your study programme.
Academic calendar 2023-2024
Purple introduction week
21-08-2023 / 25-08-2023
Educational period 1
04-09-2023 / 19-11-2023
Educational period 2
20-11-2023 / 11-02-2024
Educational period 3
19-02-2024 / 28-04-2024
Educational period 4
06-05-2024 / 28-07-2024
Vacation and holidays
Autumn break
16-10-2023 / 22-10-2023
Christmas break
25-12-2023 / 07-01-2024
Carnival break
12-02-2024 / 18-02-2024
Good Friday
29-03-2024
Easter Monday
01-04-2024
May break
29-04-2024 / 05-05-2024
Ascension Day and the day after
09-05-2024 / 10-05-2024
Whit Monday
20-05-2024
Summer break
26-07-2024 / 02-09-2024
Understanding Dutch holidays
Below, you'll find brief explanations of each holiday and break included in our calendar. These descriptions can give you some insight into the culture and history behind each special day, enriching your experience at Fontys. Whether it's a time for celebration, reflection, or relaxation, each holiday has its unique charm and significance.
There is a week-long break in October, providing students and staff with a pause from their academic and work activities to enjoy the autumn season.
This two-week holiday in late December to early January celebrates Christmas and New Year. It's a time for families and friends to gather, share meals, and exchange gifts, marking the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.
Carnival is a festive season before Lent, with public celebrations, parades, and parties. The break in February allows participants to partake in these lively and colourful festivities, which are particularly popular in the southern provinces of the Netherlands.
The day after Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. It's a public holiday in the Netherlands, often spent with family and involved in springtime activities.
The May break occurs at the end of April and goes into early May. It includes King's Day and Liberation Day. This period is full of celebrations across the country, with events and activities that honour the Netherlands' history and culture.
Ascension Day is a Christian holiday celebrated 40 days after Easter Sunday. It commemorates Jesus Christ's ascension into heaven. The following day is often given as an extended break to create a long weekend.
On Monday, the day after Pentecost, we celebrate when the Holy Spirit came to Jesus' followers. In the Netherlands, it's a time for spring festivals and cultural events.
The long summer holiday in July and August marks the end of the academic year. Students and staff enjoy a prolonged break to relax, travel, and engage in leisure activities before the new academic year begins.