A Festive Celebration: Czech Christmas Concert 2024 in The Hague

Christmas concert in a church

On December 10, 2024, the historic Kloosterkerk in the heart of The Hague came alive with the joyous sounds of the Czech Christmas Concert. Organized by the Czech Embassy in The Hague in collaboration with the Czech Centre in Rotterdam and #VisitCzechia, the event brought together the Czech community, expats, and representatives from various embassies and international organisations in the Netherlands. It was a delightful celebration of culture, music, and festive spirit.

The evening was opened by H.E. Mr. Rene Miko, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the Netherlands, who welcomed all the participants, including representatives from other diplomatic missions and international organizations based in The Hague. Members of the Czech expat community and attendees from the Czech-Dutch Chamber of Commerce (CDCC) also joined to partake in the warm and festive atmosphere.

Christmas concert in a churchThe concert was performed by Peter Drozda (harpsichord), Anežka Drozdová (traverso) and Kristina Archer (soprano). Their captivating performance was a blend of classical and Czech Christmas music, adding a magical touch to the advent season. The program included timeless pieces such as Handel’s “Oh! Had I Jubal’s Lyre,” J. S. Bach’s “Weihnachtsoratorium” excerpts, and traditional Czech compositions like J. J. Ryba’s “Rozmilý Slavičku (Sweet Nightingale).” The concert concluded with the universally beloved “Tichá noc (Silent Night),” bringing the audience together as every body was asked by the artist to join them singing.

Reflecting on the event, Katerina Veliskova, Executive Director of CDCC, remarked: “This lovely event, with its beautiful Christmas atmosphere, truly brings the community together during the advent season. The Czech Embassy has created a wonderful tradition that I sincerely hope will continue for years to come.”

We extend our gratitude to the Czech Embassy, the Czech Centre in Rotterdam, and all the talented performers for making this event an unforgettable highlight of the festive season. Here’s to cherishing traditions and creating new memories together!