10 tips for observing Ramadan in Amsterdam

Art against the stereotyping of Arab women

At Huis Marseille, Body as Resistance is a moment to pause and reflect. The exhibition addresses the oppression and stereotyping of women that occurs worldwide. Yemeni-Egyptian-American artist Yumna Al-Arashi focuses primarily on the Arab world. Through photography, installations, books, and sculptures, she explores how colonial ideas and traditions influence our perceptions.  

Body as Resistance | 28 February - 29 March, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (Thursday until 9:00 pm) | Huis Marseille

Ramadan for children at the Wereldmuseum

There are also plenty of activities for children during Ramadan. At the Wereldmuseum, they can make the famous festive date balls themselves on Wednesday afternoons for Eid al-Fitr. During this three-day celebration, Muslims mark the end of Ramadan with friends, family, and lots of delicious food, especially sweet treats. In addition to date balls, children can also make their own lantern, an important symbol of Ramadan. 

Ramadan for kids | 8th, 15th, 22nd March, 12:00 – 16:00 (drop-in from 15:30) | Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (at the Feestwinkel)

Eid Pop Up for women

In the final week of Ramadan, preparations for Eid al-Fitr begin. The Eid Pop Up brings together female entrepreneurs in one festive location. Expect colourful stalls with special products, from gifts to jewellery and clothing. Discover delicious oriental treats and a cosy atmosphere. Here you can shop, taste, and enjoy in complete tranquillity, at a pop-up exclusively accessible to women. 

Eid Pop-Up | Saturday 14 March, 12:00 – 17:00 | Arsitos Hall, Tom Schreursweg 10

Eid Family Bazaar

Not tired of shopping yet? On the other side of Westerpark, another Eid Bazaar kicks off a day later. Everyone is welcome at this bazaar. With more than 100 stalls, you'll find everything related to fashion, beauty, gifts, henna, and more. Anyone who wants can enjoy delicious food, and there is plenty to do for children. Want to do your Ramadan shopping in advance? At the same location, you can attend the Pre-Ramadan Bazaar (ladies-only) on 15 February.

Eid Family Bazaar | 15 March, 13:00 – 20:00 | Rhone Events, Rhoneweg 12-14

Visit a mosque

Did you know that Amsterdam has more than 30 mosques? During Ramadan, drop in and experience the tranquillity and hospitality. Visit, for example, the historic Fatih Mosque in a former church on Rozengracht, the modern West Mosque on Schinkel, or the striking white Taibah Mosque in Bijlmer. Or what about the Blue Mosque, which stands out with its base made of glazed blue bricks? Tip: Wear respectful clothing (covered shoulders/knees), remove your shoes upon entering, and inquire in advance about visiting hours. 

 Find a mosque nearby | City-wide

Get started as a volunteer

Ramadan is a wonderful time to do something for others and at the same time enrich your own world. Volunteering is perfect for this: you help others and discover what matters to you. At the Volunteer Centre Amsterdam (VCA), there's always a place where you can make a difference right away, from one-off tasks if you're visiting to long-term projects if you live here. Prefer advice first? Make an appointment for the consultation and find out which volunteering opportunities suit you. 

Volunteer Centre Amsterdam | City-wide

Go on a poetry hunt

Take an inspiring walk through the city and seek out Poetry on the Pavement. This is an art project that transforms public spaces into a stage for poetry and calligraphy. In unexpected places in the city, such as pavements, flower boxes, and walls, poems appear that enrich the everyday environment and invite you to wonder and reflect. On the interactive map, you can see exactly where these hidden art treasures are located in your neighbourhood. 

Find poetry on the pavement | City-wide

Sail calmly through your day

Take a cruise on a boat through the Amsterdam canals. Sounds touristy? Not at all. Many Amsterdammers only discover how beautiful their own city is once they're out on the water. From the boat, you can see the historic canal belt, stunning mansions, and hidden corners that you miss from the street. Opt for a peaceful morning or afternoon, so you can enjoy it without physical effort. A perfect way to get through the fasting day: with calm, distraction, and a fresh perspective on your own city. 

Find a canal cruise | Various routes, times and prices

Pilates & praying for women

Pilates for Her also organises special lessons for women during fasting this year. The low-intensity sessions are held in a secluded studio without windows and are entirely hijab-friendly. After the lessons, there is time to pray and gather together. Prefer to exercise after iftar? Then choose a 24/7 gym such as Basic-Fit, which is open day and night at multiple locations which does guest passes too.

Pilates for Her | Albert Cuypstraat 202  

Ramadan x Martial Arts Center Amsterdam

Try your hand at kickboxing and beyond at this Ramadan special martial arts night. For €5, begin with mindfulness training before a fre-iftar kickboxing challenge, followed by post-sunset snacks and drinks, and even a makeup & henna session. There's a prayer room available, too, for those who want to pray.

Martial Arts Special | 27 March, 17:30 | Pieter Calandlaan 1375