What is Pea Soup Day (Nationale Snertdag)?

Dutch Pea Soup Day, or Nationale Snertdag, is an annual celebration held on the second Sunday of December in the Netherlands. While the event features the beloved winter dish snert (Dutch pea soup), its primary focus is to foster connection and reduce loneliness, particularly among people aged 50 and older.

Events across the country invite participants to come together, share a bowl of warm soup, and enjoy meaningful conversations. Nationale Snertdag transforms a cold winter day into an opportunity to build community and strengthen social bonds.

History and Origin

Nationale Snertdag was founded in 2017 by Klup, a social platform for individuals aged 50 and older. The initiative was created to address increasing loneliness in this demographic and to provide a warm, welcoming space for people to meet others.

Snert, with its hearty and comforting qualities, was chosen as the symbolic centerpiece of the day. Its deep roots in Dutch culinary tradition make it a perfect dish to bring people together. Over the years, Nationale Snertdag has grown in popularity, with events hosted in community centers, cafés, and even private homes across the Netherlands.

Who Celebrates Dutch Pea Soup Day?

• Older Adults (50+): Individuals looking for social connections and new friendships.
• Community Groups: Local organizations hosting gatherings to promote togetherness.
• Restaurants and Cafés: Businesses offering special snert-themed menus and events.
• Volunteers: People dedicated to creating welcoming environments for others.
• Families and Friends: Groups using the day to reconnect and enjoy time together.

Themes and Slogans

The themes of Nationale Snertdag focus on connection, community, and warmth. The event encourages people to counteract the isolation often felt during the winter months by sharing a meal and meaningful conversations.

The name “Snertdag” plays on the dual meaning of “snert” in Dutch;it not only refers to the soup but also means “a bad day.” The day aims to turn a potentially dreary winter day into a moment of joy and connection.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• Green: Reflects the main ingredient of snert;split peas;and symbolizes renewal.
• Brown: Represents comfort and the earthy, hearty nature of the dish.
• Orange: Highlights Dutch cultural pride and adds a festive warmth.

Symbols:

• Bowl of Pea Soup: Represents warmth, nourishment, and Dutch tradition.
• Spoon: Symbolizes sharing and enjoying a meal together.
• Heart: Emphasizes care, connection, and the day’s social mission.

Patterns:

• Steam Swirls: Evoke the comforting warmth of freshly made snert.
• Checkered Tablecloths: Bring to mind traditional Dutch home gatherings.
• Dutch Tile Motifs: Highlight cultural heritage and pride.

How to Celebrate Dutch Pea Soup Day

• Host or Attend a Gathering: Join a local event or invite others to share a bowl of snert at home.
• Cook Together: Involve friends, family, or neighbors in preparing snert to enjoy as a group.
• Share on Social Media: Post photos and experiences from the day using relevant hashtags to inspire others.
• Invite Someone New: Reach out to someone who might be feeling lonely and include them in your celebration.
• Support Local Businesses: Visit restaurants and cafés offering special menus or events for Nationale Snertdag.

Most Used Hashtags

• #NationaleSnertdag
• #SnertConnections
• #DutchPeaSoupDay
• #FightingLoneliness
• #WarmWinterConnections

Why is Dutch Pea Soup Day Important?

Nationale Snertdag addresses a critical issue: loneliness, particularly among older adults. By encouraging gatherings centered around a traditional meal, the day fosters meaningful social interactions and helps build stronger communities.

It also preserves a cherished part of Dutch culinary culture, reminding people of the power of food to connect us. In turning a cold, potentially gloomy day into a time of warmth and togetherness, Nationale Snertdag stands as a symbol of hope, connection, and the enduring value of community.