Reasons to visit Amsterdam in winter

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Diverse locaties / Various locations

IDFA

IDFA: International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam

IDFA returns in 2026. Every November, this international film festival takes place in Amsterdam, transforming the city into a paradise for documentary enthusiasts. It takes place in various locations, from Rembrandtplein to Amsterdam West and Zuidoost. With (inter)national premieres and competitions, films by debutants and students, children's documentaries, a film market, and many international guests.

Strandafgang De

New Year's Swim

Let's hope that the weather won't spoil this event in 2026. Start your New Year’s fitness regime with a dip in the sea at Zandvoort aan Zee on  January 1. This tradition is in its 60th year and attracts brave swimmers from all around the Netherlands. There were plenty of brave divers rushing into the sea, even more fun was that friends and family were there to cheer them on and plenty lifeguards just in case they were needed. Lets hope that on January 1, 2025 it will be such a party again.

Lunar New Year

Most of the activities during Chinese New Year traditionally take place on Nieuwmarkt and Zeedijk in Amsterdam, but there are usually also festivities on Dam Square. Chinese New Year begins each year between 21 January and 20 February. In 2026, Chinese New Year falls on 17 February and celebrates the Year of the Horse. The horse is the seventh animal in the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac according to the Chinese calendar. Please note: Date en time for 2026 are to be confirmed and are subject to change.

Mastercard Hotelnacht

Hotelnacht 2020

Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Amsterdam Hotel Night

In 2026 Amsterdammers are once again very welcome during this new edition of the Mastercard Hotel Night. For a weekend they can be like tourists in their own city. For a special price you can stay in one of the most special hotels in Amsterdam and you can go to various creative, culinary and cultural hotel parties this weekend.

Westerpark

Funky Xmas Market

It’s already well on its way to becoming an institution in Amsterdam, and in December, the Sunday Market, an art, fashion and design market at Westergasfabriek where designers, artists and other creatives sell their wares directly to the public, gets festive with the Funky Xmas Market.

PAN Amsterdam (RAI Hall 8)

Opening Pan

Kunst kijken Engels

Kunst Kijken Atkris

Kunst kijken Frozen Fountain

Kunst kijken Kids

PAN Amsterdam

PAN Amsterdam returns to the RAI in 2026 for its 39th edition. PLEASE NOTE: The dates and times listed for 2026 are subject to change. This renowned art, antiques, and design fair once again showcases a diverse mix of established names and emerging talent. The fair is an excellent opportunity to gain inspiration, expand your collection, and, above all, enjoy all the beautiful objects exhibited by the participants. During the fair, visit the inspiring PAN Podium, or enjoy familiar features like Walls & Cabinets, Museum Spotlight, and the PAN Podium lecture program.

Winter events and highlights

Christmas markets in and around Amsterdam

Festive season

Ice skating in Amsterdam

Must-watch documentaries during IDFA 2025

All lit up: best spots to see holiday lights in Amsterdam

Tips for New Year's Eve in Amsterdam

Things to do this season

Ice skating on the Canal Ring

Potatoes, stews and zuurkool: winter season specialities in Amsterdam

Most romantic restaurants in Amsterdam

Cosy campfire terraces in Amsterdam

Best oliebollen in and around Amsterdam

Cosy spots for comfort food in Amsterdam

Amsterdam for chocoholics

A taste of winter

Discover Amsterdam with the City Card

City Card

Amsterdam comes into its own in the winter months with a festive atmosphere, cosy pubs and plenty of events to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Winter | I amsterdam

Winter in Amsterdam

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