Dutch-American Friendship Day

Dutch-American Friendship Day is celebrated annually on April 19 to honor the enduring diplomatic and cultural ties between the United States and the Netherlands. It commemorates the day in 1782 when the Netherlands became the first country to recognize the United States as an independent nation. This day highlights centuries of shared values, economic collaboration, and mutual respect.

Quick Facts

When is it?: April 19
Tagged as: Culture, Diplomacy, History
What’s the hashtag?: #DutchAmericanFriendshipDay
When was it founded?: 1982
Who founded it?: President Ronald Reagan

History of Dutch-American Friendship Day

The roots of this day trace back to April 19, 1782, when John Adams was officially received by the States-General in The Hague as the first U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands. On that same day, Adams secured recognition for the United States as a sovereign nation and signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce, strengthening economic ties between the two nations. In 1982, President Ronald Reagan established Dutch-American Friendship Day to celebrate this enduring relationship, which he called “the longest unbroken, peaceful relationship” between the U.S. and any foreign country.

Timeline

1782: The Netherlands recognizes U.S. independence; John Adams becomes the first U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands.
1782: The Treaty of Amity and Commerce is signed between both nations.
1982: President Reagan officially designates April 19 as Dutch-American Friendship Day.
2025: Celebrations continue globally with events promoting cultural and diplomatic ties.

Dutch-American Friendship Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 19	Saturday
2026	April 19	Sunday
2027	April 19	Monday
2028	April 19	Wednesday
2029	April 19	Thursday
2030	April 19	Friday

Observed on Dutch-American Friendship Day

This day is observed with events such as cultural festivals, historical discussions, and diplomatic receptions in both countries. In cities like The Hague and Amsterdam, public celebrations include exhibitions about shared history, while Americans of Dutch heritage often reflect on their ancestry. Schools and communities organize programs to educate about this unique friendship and its significance in global diplomacy.

Fun Facts About Dutch-American Friendship Day

The Netherlands was the first country to recognize U.S. independence in 1782.
John Adams purchased a house in The Hague that became America’s first embassy.
Over 4.5 million Americans today claim Dutch ancestry.

Quiz

When is Dutch-American Friendship Day celebrated?
Who was the first U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands?
Which treaty was signed between the U.S. and the Netherlands in 1782?
Who officially designated this day in 1982?
What is the hashtag for this celebration?

(Answers: 1) April 19; 2) John Adams; 3) Treaty of Amity and Commerce; 4) Ronald Reagan; 5) #DutchAmericanFriendshipDay)

FAQs

Why is Dutch-American Friendship Day important? It celebrates centuries of peaceful relations between two nations that share values of liberty and democracy.
What does this day commemorate? It marks the recognition of U.S. independence by the Netherlands in 1782.
Who initiated this celebration? President Ronald Reagan established it in 1982.
How is it celebrated today? With cultural events, historical discussions, and community programs in both countries.
What is its significance for Americans of Dutch heritage? It honors their ancestral contributions to American culture and history.

Importance of Dutch-American Friendship Day

This day underscores a historic partnership that shaped global diplomacy since America’s founding years. It highlights shared ideals like freedom, democracy, and innovation that continue to unite these nations today.

Additionally, it serves as a reminder of how international alliances can foster peace and prosperity over centuries.

Finally, it honors millions of Americans who trace their ancestry to the Netherlands, celebrating their role in shaping U.S. history.