Tips for New Year's Day in Amsterdam

Brace yourself for a New Year's dip

Kickstart your fitness routine in 2025 with the Nieuwjaarsduik (New Year's Swim). This chilly tradition takes place every year on January 1st, when brave swimmers take to the waters of Zandvoort aan Zee. This 60-year-old tradition draws courageous crowds from across the Netherlands, with plenty of lifeguards in attendance too to keep everyone safe and happy. For those who prefer to stay on dry land and watch the swimmers, you can also join in the fun and enjoy a hot cup of traditional Dutch erwten (pea) soup.

Dance into the new year

Just because New Year's Eve is over doesn't mean the dancing has to stop. Keep the party going at one of Amsterdam's New Year's Day parties, including Radion's annual New Year's Day event, The First Dance. If a day out in the crisp air is more your style, swing over to the stylish city beach of Thuishaven, which is hosting a New Year's dance gathering named De Nieuwjaarsdans with Amsterdam DJ Job Jobse. Paradiso keeps the celebration going on January 1st for a day party with a carefully curated line-up of international and local DJs. Expect Lil' Louis, Tom Trago and Gerd Janson behind the decks! Champagne and free oliebollen (first come, first served) will be served to toast the beginning of the new year.

Visit a museum

With a new year comes new inspiration, calling for a visit to one of Amsterdam’s world-class museums. Many of the city's museums remain open on January 1st. The Rijksmuseum, with its wealth of Dutch masterpieces, is a prominent part of the country's cultural heritage. For fans of the experimental and avant-garde, the art at the Stedelijk Museum is not to be missed. Museum Rembrandthuis, housed in the historic former home of the Dutch master, provides an intimate glimpse into Rembrandt's life and work.

Catch a classical concert

Located just off the Museumplein, Amsterdam's Concertgebouw is not only an architectural gem, but an unmissable venue for classical music. The Netherlands Wind Ensemble typically kicks off the new year with a lavish musical extravaganza, featuring the world's most exquisite musical stories. This stimulating performance will inspire, console, and offer a hopeful vision of the year to come.

Marvel at the lights

Throughout history, light has been used as a symbol of celebration to mark the sacred passage of time. Amsterdam Light Festival, now entering its 12th year, does just that. With the city celebrating its 750th anniversary, this edition is an extra special one, featuring 27 light artworks that form a walkable trail along the streets and canals of this luminous city.

Catch a movie

Nothing feels more leisurely and festive than catching a matinee film screening on New Year's Day. Many of Amsterdam's independent and boutique cinemas (such as De Filmhallen in West, Eye in Noord and Studio K in the city's east). For a true feast for your eyes, visit Pathé Tuschinski in the city centre, which was voted the world's most beautiful cinema - and for good reason, with its striking facade and luxurious interior.

Get your skates on

Enjoy the winter day and take in the fresh air with an afternoon zipping around a local ice rink. With a little exercise and a lot of seasonal charm, this fun New Year's Day activity will see you glide through some of the city's most picturesque locations. The beautiful ice rink on Museumplein is open, with the Rijksmuseum as its striking backdrop, as well as the colossal outdoor rink at the Jaap Edenbaan. For a comprehensive guide on where to skate, check out our page on skating rinks in the city.

Go for a wander

As part of the New Year's celebrations, many locals enjoy strolling through the city the next day. While the evening's parties are over and the mess already swept away, the energy of the celebration lingers in Amsterdam's picturesque streets. If you fancy getting off the beaten path, head out into the greater Amsterdam Area for some sweeping vistas and nature walks.