Culture Guide (May 2026)
Moco’s Modern Masters
In collaboration with the Moco Museum
Museumplein is perhaps best known for its connection to the Dutch masters of old, but on the very same square, the Moco museum Amsterdam offers you the chance to see the work of Modern Masters who have defined the recent art world. Experience pop art pioneers like Andy Warhol, the raw energy of Jean-Michel Basquiat or the immersive environments and abstract paintings of Yayoi Kusama.
The Stedelijk Collection
In collaboration with the Stedelijk Museum
Explore more than 500 works spanning from 1870 to the present day; from Piet Mondrian, to Jackson Pollock or Steve McQueen. In the iconic modern and contemporary art museum, you will find both world-famous works and new discoveries. Wander through specially curated rooms of interrelated pieces, whether in aesthetic, era, or theme. Expect an extensive collection that may take multiple visits to fully appreciate.
Editor's Pick: Pelview at Tillatec
Two artists will showcase their work in an exhibition space just off the dance floors of this nightclub in West. While smoke filling your lungs and techno pulsing in your eardrums probably aren’t your average exhibition experiences, the music promises to accompany and add to the art – or vice versa. The artists relate their work to the clubbing experience, featuring both an audiovisual experience and a series of sculptures depicting writhing bodies.
Pelview| From 1 May | Tillatec
Laura Ramoso, the Calm Down Tour at RAI
This German-Italian comedian, known for her viral impersonations and observational comedy, brings an entirely new sketch show to Amsterdam. In 2024, she toured globally with Sit Up Straight, performing over 60 sold-out shows across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the UK, and North America. All in all, though the title may urge you otherwise, there’s a lot to get excited about.
Laura Ramoso - The Calm Down Tour | 10 May
Glass Made in Antiquity at the Allard Pierson Museum
The Allard Pierson Museum presents more than 200 glass objects from the museum’s archaeology collection. Both transparent and opaque, elegantly decorated and unusually shaped, these fragile materials have remained intact for centuries, think Ancient Rome or Egypt – so make sure not to touch them and be the one to ruin that. Instead, soak in the beauty of the collection while learning more about the sophisticated glass-making techniques of antiquity.
Glass, made in antiquity| From 16 May
Grimm at Carré
Through a video game, two brothers end up in a fantasy world, where they meet various fairytale characters from the famous stories of the Brothers Grimm. Both the ISH Dance Collective and the Junior Company of Dutch National Ballet perform, pairing hip-hop and ballet. Video projections and ascending scores combine to ensure an experience that is everything but grim.
GRIMM - Koninklijk Theater Carré Amsterdam| 16-17 May
Children's Liberation Festival at Vondelpark Openlucht
Established in 1974, this open-air theatre has stood the test of time for a reason. Their summer shows begin this month, with the Children's Liberation festival, featuring a performance by The Youth Theatre House Amsterdam, following the true story of the Second World War. You can also participate in all kinds of activities, including dance, theatre, or craft workshops.
International Queer & Migrant Film Festival 2026 at Lab111
IQMF is a growing voice in the international film scene. Connecting vital stories at the intersection of queer and migration-related identities, it champions voices from around the world and celebrates stories or belonging. Head to LAB111 to get your fill of films, either short or feature-length.
IQMF | 1-3 May
Bike Film Tour at the Meervaart Theater
After a successful first edition, the Bike Film Tour returns to the Netherlands. Embrace Amsterdam's bike culture by watching six carefully selected short documentaries as versatile as the vehicle itself. Highlights of the programme include Mr Cato – focusing on flatland BMX – and Breakaway Femmes, where pioneers of women's cycling look back on their exploits in the Tour de France from 1984-1989.
Bike Film Tour| 11 May | Meervaart theatre
Freedom meals on Liberation Day
Following a night of remembrance, and before setting your inner dance lover free at a party, sit down among your fellow Amsterdammers for a Freedom Meal, a worthy tradition for 12 years. Head to the Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple on the Zeedijk for spring rolls, stir-fried noodles and soup. Swing by the Heesterveld Creative Community in Zuidoost for a picnic, conversations, art and music, or visit Lola Luid in Nieuw-West for meals made from rescued vegetables from the neighbourhood, live music and workshops organised by local talents.
5 May
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Stay up to date on events and happenings in Amsterdam, get inspiration for things to do and discover hidden gems on our dedicated@IamsterdamInstagram and@Iamsterdam_officialTikTok channel.