My Experience With "Happy Birthday To You In Dutch"
As someone who has lived in the Netherlands for a few years now, I have had the opportunity to attend several birthday parties and celebrate the Dutch way. One of the most interesting things about Dutch birthday celebrations is the way they sing “Happy Birthday.”
The Dutch Version of “Happy Birthday”
The Dutch version of “Happy Birthday” is called “Lang zal ze leven” which means “Long shall she live.” It is sung to the same tune as the English version, but the lyrics are different.
Here is the first verse of the Dutch version:
“Lang zal ze leven, lang zal ze leven, lang zal ze leven in de gloria. In de gloria, in de gloria. Hieperdepiep hoera!”
Translation:
“Long shall she live, long shall she live, long shall she live in glory. In glory, in glory. Hooray!”
Step-by-Step Guide for Celebrating a Dutch Birthday
1. Sing “Lang zal ze leven” instead of “Happy Birthday.”
2. Have a “verjaardagskalender” or birthday calendar in your home or office to remember everyone’s birthdays.
3. Serve “taart” or cake, often with whipped cream and fruit.
4. Offer “beschuit met muisjes” to celebrate the birth of a new baby. Beschuit is a type of Dutch biscuit and muisjes are small, anise-flavored candies that are traditionally pink or blue.
5. Give “cadeautjes” or gifts to the birthday person. Often, the birthday person will open their gifts in front of everyone.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Celebrating a Dutch Birthday
1. Make a “slagroomtaart” or whipped cream cake for the birthday person.
2. Decorate the birthday person’s chair with balloons or streamers.
3. Have a “gezellige” or cozy celebration with close friends and family.
4. Give a “verjaardagskaart” or birthday card that includes a personal message.
5. Play “sjoelen” or Dutch shuffleboard, a popular game at Dutch birthday parties.
6. Sing “Lang zal ze leven” in a group to the birthday person.
7. Offer “borrelhapjes” or snacks like bitterballen or kaasstengels.
8. Have a “borrel” or drinks with friends and family to celebrate.
9. Decorate the house with “slingers” or garlands.
10. Give a “bloemetje” or bouquet of flowers to the birthday person.
Pros and Cons of Celebrating a Dutch Birthday
Pros:
– It is a fun and unique way to celebrate a birthday.
– The Dutch version of “Happy Birthday” is easy to learn and sing.
– There are many traditional treats and games associated with Dutch birthdays.
Cons:
– If you are not from the Netherlands, it may feel unfamiliar and strange to celebrate a birthday this way.
– The Dutch birthday tradition may not be appropriate or appealing for everyone.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
I have enjoyed celebrating birthdays in the Dutch way and think it is a fun and unique tradition. However, I understand that it may not be for everyone. If you are interested in trying it out, I suggest starting with a small celebration with close friends and family. You can also try making some traditional Dutch treats like “taart” or “beschuit met muisjes” to add to the experience.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Is “Lang zal ze leven” only sung for female birthdays?
A: No, “Lang zal ze leven” is sung for both male and female birthdays. The lyrics can be adjusted to fit the gender of the person celebrating.
Q: Can I celebrate a Dutch birthday if I am not from the Netherlands?
A: Yes, anyone can celebrate a Dutch birthday. It is a fun and unique way to celebrate a special occasion.
Q: What is the significance of the “verjaardagskalender” in Dutch birthdays?
A: The “verjaardagskalender” is a calendar that lists everyone’s birthdays. It is often displayed in a prominent place in the home or office and is a helpful way to remember important dates.