Culture Guide (February 2026)

Editor’s Pick: Metamorphoses at the Rijksmuseum

Celebrating the transformative tales penned by Ovid, this exhibition showcases the profound influence of the Roman poet. From passion and desire to deceit and jealousy, this collection at the Rijksmuseum traces the many artists and works inspired by Ovid. One for the classicists and anyone who’s ever loved myth.

Metamorphoses - Rijksmuseum | 6 February-25 May 2026

Anton de Kom at The Black Archives

A historical archive and cultural centre in Zuid-Oost consisting of book collections, archives and artefacts that contribute to a legacy of Black writers and scholars. This February, two events related to Anton de Kom – the Surinamese writer who resisted against Dutch colonialism – are on show First, aWorkshop: Letters to Anton de Kom on 7 February, gives visitors the chance to write letters to him and reflect on his legacy, in an experience inspired by a book of the same name written by Akwasi, the workshops host.. On 22 February, Anton de Kom Day, there will be spoken-word performances, intellectual readings, and live music in celebration of his achievements.

The Black Archives | 7 February & 22 February

Drink Along: The Fall (2006) at Lab 111

Lab111 presents the unique experience of watching The Fall, with a handpicked selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks paired with the viewing. The Fall, released in 2006, follows a fantastical story of heroes, myths and villains relayed to a young girl by a bedridden patient in a hospital. Sip along, though, try to avoid an equally dramatised descent into your drink.

 Drink Along:The Fall(2006) | 1 & 15 Feb, 16:00

Brown Bar exhibition at Amstelkerk

Dutch photographer Dingena Mol presents a free photo exhibition surrounding 38 traditional Amsterdam brown bars, all with interiors at least 50 years old. The exhibition showcases these pubs alongside their background stories, facts, and trivia. In an increasingly international city, this is a reminder of the city’s heritage – and if you want to take it with you, a book is available to buy with all the stories and photographs inside.

Brown Bar exhibition | Weekdays 3 - 27 February

Yellow at Van Gogh Museum

Much is known about Van Gogh and, in particular, his love for the world’s sunniest and most exuberant colour: yellow. But this exhibition at the Van Gogh Museum looks to paint yellow in a different way, as something more than just a pretty shade. Through works by Van Gogh and his contemporaries, this is an exploration of what yellow did and can still mean – a symbol of light and courage.

Yellow - Van Gogh Museum | 13 February-17 May

Giovanni’s Room at ITA

Adapted from James Baldwin’s book of the same name, ITA’s Giovanni’s Room promises to capture the darkness, intensity, and beauty of its source material on stage. A story that tracks the affair of two men in Paris who, despite their differences, are brought together by desire, this adaptation looks to dig into the difficulties of attraction, identity, and the nature of love as something all-consuming, if not forever. English subtitles available.

Giovanni’s Room | 15 February-1 March

Circa: Humans 2.0 at DeLaMar

This trailblazing circus company from Australia has enraptured the world with its deft and gravity-defying mix of acrobatics, dance and theatre. Now it arrives with Humans 2.0, a spectacle where the acrobats form towers, swaying pylons of human bodies jumping and leaping in daring acts. Expect this to be a jaw-dropping night – just don’t forget to breathe as you watch everything unfold.

Circa: humans 2.0 | 28 February

Lunar New Year

Welcome to the Year of the Fire Horse. Billed as a year of change, dynamism and movement, there’s believed to be a bubbling energy around that will take you from action to achievement. For now, though, kick off the year with celebrations in Zeedijk with a parade of dragons and lions and firework displays above, while open-air food stalls pile your plates high with dumplings and noodles.

Lunar New Year | 17 February

Chocolate Festival Amsterdam at Beurs Van Berlage

Hosted at the Beurs Van Berlage, this event returns to Amsterdam this February, bringing chocolate from all over the world to the city.  Over two days, learn all about chocolate, how it is made, and of course, take part in some of the over 40 tasting opportunities. If you’re looking for some warmth in the cold weather, join the public jury at the hot chocolate awards. This is a chance to taste and rate the drinks, having your opinion contribute to who receives the title. A true family event, kids are invited to make their own lollipops and chocolate bars.

Chocolate Festival Amsterdam | 21 & 22 February

Jan Dibbets 1966-1976 – Toward Another Photography at H'ART

​Located in the H’ART museum on the Amstel River, this exhibition is dedicated to Jan Dibbets, the renowned Dutch conceptual artist. It is the first monographic presentation of his work in Amsterdam since the 1972 exhibition at the Stedelijk Museum. Follow the artist’s journey from painting to photography – a perfect weekend activity for any art or culture lover.

​Jan Dibbets 1966-1976 - Toward Another Photography  | Until 5 April