The winter of 1917 was extremely cold, with some of the lowest average temperatures in history. The film shows the effects of this cold winter on daily life in the Netherlands. We see, for example, the frozen Hofvijver in The Hague, ice on the beach of Scheveningen, and Volendam being threatened by drifting ice. The severe frost also makes the third Elfstedentocht possible. We see images of the tour and of its winner, Coen de Koning, who poses at ease for the camera during his passage through Hindeloopen. The film also contains a few scenic shots in Hindeloopen of sledge-riding ladies in traditional costume.

The inhabitants of Amsterdam enjoy themselves on the ice on the Herengracht. Skaters in Amsterdam get ready for their trip to Monnickendam and Marken. Along the way, the skaters pass by Ilpendam. In Broek in Waterland, skaters cross a bridge to reach another piece of ice. A cake-and-snacks stand sells hot chocolate.