Katerina Blogs: Go Oranje

Katerina blogs

Let’s assume you are not sports fan. In this case you might be wondering what national holiday is approaching in the Netherlands. ‘Queens day was more than a month ago. What are the flags still doing out?’

Well, for your information, there is another ‘public holiday’ approaching. This holiday is celebrated every four years and it is called ‘Euro’. Another great occasion, to put on your bright orange outfit.

If you are a foreigner living in the Netherlands, it sure is hard to understand the madness going on around football and the Dutch team. But, trust me! It is there! For me, it is really impressive to see how people are united before the big event. Putting on little orange ornaments, the national flag, it is a whole other round of ‘Queens Day’ madness but with a common cause: to support the Dutch national team. I was told that there are even local competitions on the best decorated street or house!

As you can imagine, it is a big deal! But, this is what I like about the Dutch people. They are truly enthusiastic and supportive towards their team, waiting nothing in return. In Greece, we only wrap ourselves in flags when our team wins. Before that, everyone is more or less indifferent. During the Euro in 2004, people went on crazy celebrations partly because the Greek team kept winning (for no obvious reason) and partly because it was completely unexpected, so they just wanted to get out there and make sure it’s real! Let alone that we usually gather in squares mainly to protest rather than sing, celebrate, watch a football game, etc.

Consider yourselves lucky if you are still in the Netherlands during the Euro 2012. It is going to be a great experience. I suggest to watch at least a game on a square wherever you are. There will be screens all over the country. Even if your national team is participating in this year’s European Championship, support the ‘Oranje’ as well! Just for the people. They deserve it.

Here’s a little preview of what you are about to experience.

[Katerina Petropoulou (25) studies Business Communication and Digital Media at Tilburg University and blogs for Univers.]

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