Customs

Customs

Birthdays. Once a year, whatever the weather, a little sunshine falls into every Dutchman's life--he has a birthday. Growing old, while not honored as in China, is no disgrace here. Children have birthday parties with cake and candles, and take candies to school for all their classmates. Adults celebrate birthdays by giving a party (or a luncheon or a coffee) for themselves. At the office, they treat colleagues to cakes brought in from the baker. If you accept an invitation to a birthday celebration, a gift is necessary. Keep it modest--a mixed bouquet from the florist is always appropriate.

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