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A massive fire engulfed the Vondelkerk church tower in Amsterdam on New Year’s Eve, happening early Thursday morning, January 1, 2026. The historic 19th-century church, a popular tourist spot overlooking a major park since 1872, was severely damaged as the flames tore through its structure. The 50-meter (164-foot) tower collapsed, and the roof sustained significant damage, though officials believe the main structure will remain standing. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown at this time.
Dutch police reported an extraordinary level of violence against emergency responders across the country during the holiday. Nine Kooiman, the head of the Dutch Police Union, recounted being hit three times with fireworks and explosive devices while on duty in Amsterdam. Shortly after midnight, authorities issued a rare nationwide alert via mobile phones, advising the public not to call emergency services unless absolutely necessary due to overwhelming demand.
Incidents of assault on police and firefighters were common nationwide. In Breda, a southern city, individuals threw petrol bombs at law enforcement officers. Tragically, fireworks accidents claimed the lives of a 17-year-old boy and a 38-year-old man, while three others sustained serious injuries. Rotterdam’s eye hospital treated 14 patients, including 10 minors, for eye injuries; two of these cases required surgery.
With the ban on unofficial fireworks expected the following year, many Dutch residents purchased large quantities of fireworks. According to the Dutch Pyrotechnics Association, consumers spent a record €129 million ($151 million) on fireworks. While some areas had designated restrictions or firework-free zones, these measures appeared ineffective, as loud bangs continued into the early hours of the morning in several locations, including The Hague.
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