Easter in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a reputation for being less than holy, but come Easter-time, the city gets just as wrapped up in festivities as anywhere else. In fact, Easter celebrations in the Netherlands are very similar to the traditions in other parts of the world.

In the run-up to the weekend holiday, chocolate eggs, bunnies and jelly beans start appearing at store in town. The Dutch are also known to give out the candy goodies free at shop counters, offices and even along with your coffee orders.

On Easter Sunday, the fun begins for children. They spend most of the morning colouring boiled eggs, then heading out to hunt for the ones hidden by the Easter Bunny. The rest of the morning is spent eating those treasured eggs - and lots of other delicious dishes as part of Easter brunch.

The dishes in Dutch brunch, however, are a bit different than most are used to. Instead of baked ham or a hot roast, they prefer a spread of cold dishes and fish. Smoked eel and salmon are favourites, and perfectly paired with Paasstol, a traditional Easter sweet bread, with a soft, almond paste center.

The centerpiece of this delicious spread is the Dutch Paastakken. This 'Easter tree' stands as a cluster of willow branches from which decorations like bunnies, bows and butterflies hang, along with - even more - chocolate treats. Of course, all around is another typically Dutch touch, the tulip. It's this time of year the blossoms are in full bloom, and local Dutch households will feature big colourful bouquets on brunch tables.

The rest of Easter weekend is spent enjoying the family time the holiday brings. Dutch families also make a point to enjoy good weather, if they're lucky enough to have it. They trend to hit the local parks and cycle routes full force. But, bad weather isn't too much of a downer. That means families will head to the malls and movie theaters.