Reasons to visit Amsterdam in winter

Cultural tips for Amsterdam this winter

Christmas markets in and around Amsterdam

What's On

Diverse locaties / Various locations

artist impression Swans van Jon Voss © Amsterdam Light Festival

Artist Impression 'In Bloom' Wilhelmusvlug

Artist Impression 'Solstice' by Studio Vertigo

Artist Impression 'Rush Hour' by OSSO

'Light Gate' by Edwin Baruch

Amsterdam Light Festival

Amsterdam Light Festival returns with a new edition from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026. What legacy will we leave for future generations? Legacy is the theme of the fourteenth edition of Amsterdam Light Festival. The internationally renowned light art festival, which illuminates the capital during the darkest months of the year, aims to connect and enrich residents and visitors with twenty light artworks in photogenic locations.

Museumplein

Schaatsbaan op het Museumplein

Ice Rink at Museumplein

Starting Saturday, November 15, 2025, the ice rink at Museumplein will reopen for a season of winter fun. For nearly three months, Amsterdammers and visitors can enjoy a charming winter outing in the cultural heart of Amsterdam.

RAI Amsterdam

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise is the largest and most enjoyable winter event in the Netherlands. Enjoy unique attractions, ice skating, winter snacks and drinks and endless ice fun. The ultimate winter experience returns to the RAI Amsterdam. There is plenty to do both during the day and in the evening. Skate under a blanket of lights on the 3400 m2 indoor and outdoor skating rink, discover the ultimate view of Amsterdam from the mega Ferris wheel or the high swing ride and slide down the tube slide on real snow!

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.

Sinterklaas Intocht Amsterdam

Arrival of Sinterklaas

Next November, Sinterklaas will arrive in Amsterdam again, and it will be another spectacular event. A celebration for all Amsterdammers, from every borough and corner of the city! It promises to be an unforgettable journey through the beautiful city, both on water and horseback.

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.

Amstelveen Winter Village

Who doesn't dream of a nice cold winter? With snow-white treetops, frozen ditches and creeks, the holidays and atmospherically lit squares and living rooms. Together with family and friends around a crackling wood fire, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate with whipped cream... At the first night frost, many people start to get itchy feeling. Natural ice or not, everyone is always welcome at Winter Village. Winter Village is the place where young and old meet.

https://muiderslot.nl/plan-je-bezoek/toegankelijkheid/

Muiderslot Kasteel

Muiderslot

Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot

The Muiderslot - nowadays also known as Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot - is one of the most famous castles in the Netherlands. The square castle with its characteristic round corner towers and moat was founded by Floris V. shortly after 1285 and restored from 1895-1910.

Our favourite festivities this season

festivities

Festive shopping in Amsterdam

Tips for New Year's Eve in Amsterdam

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

Cosy campfire terraces in Amsterdam

Best ways to see Amsterdam Light Festival

Winter day trips from Amsterdam

Our editorial guides

New Year's events

New Year's

Essential Dutch winter foods to eat in Amsterdam

Best cheese fondue in Amsterdam

Best oliebollen in and around Amsterdam

Most romantic restaurants in Amsterdam

Cosy spots for comfort food in Amsterdam

Amsterdam for chocoholics

A taste of winter

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It may be cold outside, but the joy and sparkle of Amsterdam’s festive season will keep everyone warm.

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