Don’t forget: clocks jump ahead one hour as summer time starts tonight
In the night from Saturday to Sunday, the Netherlands switches to daylight saving time, moving clocks forward by one hour. At 2 a.m., the time will advance to 3 a.m., meaning residents will lose one hour of sleep as Sunday begins.
People waking up on Sunday should account for the shorter night. The shift moves daylight further into the evening, with sunrise occurring later but daylight lasting longer into the evening hours.
Although the loss of one hour may seem minor, experts note it can affect concentration, alertness, and fatigue levels. They therefore often advise going to bed slightly earlier in the days leading up to the change.
Daylight saving time was reintroduced in the Netherlands in 1977 to align with neighboring countries. The system is part of broader European agreements, meaning most EU countries move their clocks forward in spring and back in autumn.
Although there has been ongoing discussion for years about abolishing the twice-yearly clock changes, no final agreement has been reached at the European level, so the current system remains in place for now.
Most smartphones, computers, and other digital devices will adjust automatically to the new time. However, older devices such as alarm clocks, ovens, and car radios often require manual adjustment.
