What is Third Day of Pentecost or Bokkiesdag?

The Third Day of Pentecost, known in the Netherlands as Bokkiesdag or Derde Pinksterdag, is observed each year on the Tuesday after Pentecost. This local tradition takes place primarily in the province of North Holland, especially in areas like Purmerend and the Zaanstreek. While not an official public holiday, it holds strong cultural value in the region.

Bokkiesdag has its roots in both agricultural customs and regional history. Originally, it was the day when locals gathered in Purmerend to trade young goats, known as “bokkies.” Over time, it evolved into a broader community celebration with food, drinks, and remembrance of local history. Today, the day blends heritage, social gathering, and a good dose of Dutch gezelligheid.

History and Origin

The origins of Bokkiesdag go back to the 16th century, during the Eighty Years’ War. In the region now known as North Holland, local legend tells of a victorious battle by the Geuzen (Dutch rebels) against Spanish troops, shortly after Pentecost. To mark that event, the third day of Pentecost was added as a local day of rest and celebration.

Later, Purmerend became known for its cattle market. Farmers and villagers from surrounding towns came to the city on this day to trade young goats. That practical tradition gave Bokkiesdag its name. Although the livestock market is no longer part of the event, the celebration continues, especially with food, drinks, and local festivities.

Who participates in Third Day of Pentecost?

• Local residents: People from Purmerend, Zaandam, and nearby towns keep the tradition alive with local events.
• History enthusiasts: Those interested in Dutch traditions and folklore attend to learn more and take part.
• Cycling groups: Join the Bokkiestocht, a social bike ride that follows traditional routes.
• Cultural organizers: Host music, sport, and street events to bring the community together.
• Visitors: Tourists and newcomers enjoy the day as a unique way to experience regional Dutch culture.

Slogans and Themes

Bokkiesdag doesn’t have formal slogans, but its themes are clear: local pride, history, and community spirit. It’s a day of remembering the past while celebrating the present. In informal settings, phrases like “Hé, het is Pinkster Drie” or “Doe je mee met de bokkies?” reflect the day’s casual and friendly tone.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors:

• Green: Linked to springtime and the rural roots of the day.
• Brown: Represents the young goats once traded on this day.
• Gold: Often seen in event posters and beer branding during celebrations.

Symbols:

• Goats (bokkies): The most recognizable symbol, tied directly to the event’s name and history.
• Bicycles: Represent the popular Bokkiestocht cycling event that’s central to modern celebrations.
• Beer glasses: Associated with social gatherings and pub stops during the festivities.

Patterns:

• Folk motifs: Reflect regional identity and historic agricultural life.
• Rustic textures: Inspired by farming culture and country markets.
• Checkered patterns: Common on tablecloths and decorations used in outdoor gatherings.

Most Used Hashtags

• #Bokkiesdag
• #PinksterDrie
• #DerdePinksterdag
• #Purmerend
• #Zaanstreek

How do you celebrate Third Day of Pentecost?

• Join the Bokkiestocht: Participate in a 15-kilometer bike ride with stops at pubs and cafés between Zaandam and Purmerend.
• Attend the Krommenie race: Watch or join in the annual cycling race held each year on this day.
• Visit a local pub: Share a drink, often bock beer, with locals in the spirit of tradition and togetherness.
• Join a village celebration: Enjoy live music, street food, and community events in towns where the tradition is strongest.
• Learn the history: Explore the origins of the day through local museums, heritage walks, or community storytelling.

Why is Bokkiesdag important?

Bokkiesdag is more than a quirky local event. It keeps regional history alive and gives people a reason to come together. While rooted in a specific place and time, it shows how a local story can live on for generations. Through casual celebration and simple tradition, it builds identity, pride, and community.

It also reminds us that not all meaningful holidays are national or global. Some are passed from neighbor to neighbor and kept alive by shared laughter, memory, and a bike ride through the polders.