Amelander traditions and customs
Ameland has many unique traditions and customs that are passed down from generation to generation.
From the loud bangs of carbide shooting and rolling Easter eggs to shrimp fishing and beachcombing – all year round, there are customs that give the island its character. Discover the unique traditions of Ameland here.
Paaseigoaie (Easter egg throwing)
While people on the mainland gather around an Easter bonfire, things are a little different on Ameland. No one knows exactly how long this tradition has existed, but at Easter, Ameland families take their brightly coloured, hard-boiled eggs to the dunes to play ‘eisrôlle, eislaan’ or ‘eismieten’. What does that mean? Rolling eggs down a dune until they break. Any broken eggs are eaten. In Hollum, it’s called ‘eislaan’, in Ballum they say ‘eirôlle’, and in Buren and Nes, people refer to it as ‘eismiete’ or ‘paaseigoaie’ – whatever the name, it’s great fun for young and old alike! Another popular Easter pastime is Tiepelen.
King’s Day
King’s Day is celebrated here on 27 April, just like in the rest of the Netherlands. On Ameland, the festive atmosphere is enhanced by local traditions and a strong sense of community. One of the highlights of the day is the parade of decorated floats in Hollum. This colourful procession is a long-standing tradition where people of all ages showcase their creativity by decorating floats in various themes. In addition, there are flea markets, children’s activities, and of course, live music – often performed by Ameland bands!
Did you know that Ameland has a special connection with the Dutch royal family and that King Willem is the Lord of Ameland?
Beachcombing
The alarm goes off at 5:00 in the morning – time to head to the beach for some beachcombing! Beachcombing on Ameland is an old tradition that dates back to the time when islanders collected objects and goods that had washed ashore, often after a storm or a shipwreck. You might come across all sorts of special finds, such as beautiful shells, pieces of amber, driftwood, or even a message in a bottle. To learn more about this tradition, visit the Agricultural and Beachcombing Museum in Buren.
Horse-drawn sleigh ride
When winter spreads its white blanket over Ameland, an ancient tradition comes to life: the horse-drawn sleigh ride.
As soon as conditions are right, islanders harness their horses, bring out the sleighs, and the gentle sound of sleigh bells fills the air. What was once a practical means of transport is now a cherished ritual that connects the community. The crunching snow beneath the runners and the rhythmic jingling of the bells bring the island’s history to life.
Tiepelen
The game has been passed down from generation to generation. In the past, children played it with their friends and later taught it to their own children. It was a popular game for a simple reason: there was no money for expensive toys, but a stick could always be found. All you need is a 50 cm stick and a smaller one, both about the thickness of a broom handle. The smaller stick is hit away using the longer one, and then the distance is measured. Whoever hits it the farthest is the winner!
On Ameland, the game of tiepelen is still played regularly. Traditionally, it takes place in the dunes at Easter, but also during the Bure Fair, where the Open Ameland Championship is even held. At the Bure Fair, participating teams often arrive at the start in costume, making for a festive and colourful competition!
Shrimp fishing with a push net
A beautiful sight to see about two hours before low tide. As soon as there is an ‘r’ in the month, Amelanders head to the North Sea beach with a ‘garnalenkrui’ and a bucket to go shrimp fishing. Wearing a Wâdpak, they wade through a small channel, dragging a large scoop net along the seabed in an attempt to catch a good haul of shrimp. Another person waits on the shore to sort the catch. Traditionally, the shrimp are then peeled at home at the kitchen table and often eaten straight away – because they taste best when they’re fresh!
Did you know that Ameland also produces its own Ameland shrimp croquettes?
By boat..
"Zie ginds komt de stoomboot uit Spanje weer aan..." 🎶 Yes, really! While Sinterklaas often arrives on horseback in the rest of the Netherlands, on Ameland, he simply sails into the harbour on a (steam) boat! Quite special, isn’t it? After stepping ashore, he and his Pieten are warmly welcomed in the centre of Nes.
Sunneklaas
Sunneklaas is a tradition celebrated by and for the people of Ameland – a festivity deeply rooted in Ameland’s culture and passed down from generation to generation. In the past, Sunneklaas had a pagan character on Ameland, focusing on driving away evil and marking the end of the old year. Today, Sunneklaas is mainly a tradition that strengthens the community and keeps Ameland’s cultural heritage alive. While the symbolism of protection and renewal has been partly preserved, the celebration is now mostly about togetherness and a sense of belonging among the islanders. For the people of Ameland, it is a way to honour their unique island identity.
Curious about what Sunneklaas really entails and how it is experienced by the islanders? Watch the documentary "Leve en late leve" by Fryslân DOK.
Hot meal at midday
It may not officially be called a tradition, but it is certainly a real Ameland custom! Many islanders often eat a hot meal at midday rather than in the evening. This habit dates back to a time when many Amelanders worked in agriculture or fishing – professions that started early and were often physically demanding. A hearty, warm meal at midday gave them the energy to get through the rest of the day.
Although this custom has become less common due to changing lifestyles, some islanders still uphold it, especially among the older generation. In the evenings, people often opt for a lighter meal, such as bread or soup.
Picking blackberries
Picking blackberries on Ameland is not an official tradition, but it is a much-loved activity for both islanders and visitors. In the late summer and early autumn, you can find plenty of blackberries in the dunes and along the edges of the woods. Some people make jam from them, while others prefer to eat them straight away. Be aware that foraging is officially prohibited in the Netherlands, but if you pick no more than a small container per person, it is often tolerated. So, treat nature with respect and enjoy your fresh blackberries!
Carbide shooting
Ending the year with a bang – quite literally! On Ameland, it’s a tradition that many islanders look forward to: carbide shooting on New Year’s Eve. Groups of friends gather at designated locations to create loud bangs using carbide and milk churns, ringing out the old year in spectacular fashion. The atmosphere is always lively and full of festive cheer!