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Freedom Meals in Amsterdam 2026: where to go

Freedom Meals in Amsterdam 2026: where to go

Updated 29 April 2026 at 16:09
On Tuesday, 5 May, you can join Vrijheidsmaaltijden (Freedom Meals) across Amsterdam, often for free or for a small contribution. From neighbourhood tables and dinners to meals in parks and cultural venues: everywhere it's about sharing food, meeting people, and discussing freedom. Here are a few great places to join in.

Shared Meal at the Oosterkerk

At the Eastern Church, it's all about sharing meals, listening, and participating in conversations. Personal stories, live music, and contributions from local children give this Freedom Meal a local and engaged character. A good choice if you want to join on May 5th at a place where gathering and exchange are central.

  • Oosterkerk | Kleine Wittenburgerstraat 1, Centrum | 17:30 - 20:30 | register for free 

With music and theater at the Zonnehuis

At the Sun House, the Freedom Meal is accompanied by a cultural program. You start with freedom soup and a main course, while choir music and a short theatrical program shape the evening. This makes it a good tip for those who want to experience 5 May not only at the table but also with music and the performing arts. 

Freedom Meal on the Terrace

At Akhnaton, conversation is central. Here, you can join for soup, music, and stories from speakers who approach freedom from different perspectives, from history to resistance. Due to its central location, this is a convenient choice if you are already in the city centre on May 5th and are looking for an engaging program. 

Together free on 5th May

This Freedom Meal in the K-neighbourhood is all about meeting, recognition, and conversation. With spoken word, dialogue, and a collective freedom dance, the afternoon creates an open and community-focused atmosphere. Especially for Amsterdammers who want to celebrate May 5th in Zuidoost, this is a nice place to join in. 

  • Playground Kraaiennest | Kraaiennest 75, Zuidoost | 14:30 - 16:30 | more information 

The Table of Oost

The Tafel van Oost brings together remembrance, celebration, and gathering in Oosterpark. Expect an open setting with conversations, music, performances, and spontaneous encounters around freedom and coexistence. Thanks to its location in the park, this feels like a spacious, public, and accessible place to join on 5 May.  

  • Oosterpark, a large field on the west side near the OLVG | 15:00 - 21:00 | more information 

Dining in Freedom with neighbours

At IJburg, this Freedom Meal focuses on sharing meals together and exchanging experiences. The atmosphere is informal, aimed at local residents who want to discuss freedom, community, and daily life. A good choice if you live in the East and prefer to dine small and locally.  

  • Dynamo Community Room IJburg | Ed Pelsterpark 8, IJburg | 16:00 - 22:00 | more information 

A festive evening during the IMBY Freedom Meal

At de Tolhuistuin, the Freedom Meal will be celebrated with a three-course dinner, table conversations, short lectures, and music. Newcomers and locals cook and eat together, with Middle Eastern influences and plenty of opportunities for meeting and greeting. 

  • Tolhuistuin | Tolhuisweg 3, Noord | 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM | €17.50 | buy tickets 

Deep within my being lives love

At Street Art Museum Amsterdam, the day begins with a communal breakfast in the Dichtersbuurt. Here, not only food, but also words, memories, and small personal contributions take centre stage. As a result, it feels more like a neighbourhood gathering with an artistic touch than a traditional meal. A lovely tip for those who want to start the day early and on a small scale.  

  • Use 612, Street Art Museum Amsterdam | Willem Kloosstraat 1, Nieuw-West | 10:00 – 14:00 | more information 

Bake & Share: Freedom on the table

At the Van Eesteren Museum, you're not just lining up for a meal, but also taking part in creative workshops. You decorate baked goods, hear a personal story about freedom, and participate in a spoken word and writing workshop. Afterwards, everyone comes together to eat and chat. It is precisely this combination that makes it a fun option if you want to get involved in something more active and creative.  

Together at the table with UP

At UP Events, meeting is at the heart of the experience in a relaxed setting. Get to know other visitors and engage in conversations about freedom. Thanks to the informal atmosphere and the calm environment, this is a great choice if you're looking for a spacious Freedom Meal.  

  • UP Events | Tom Schreursweg 8, West & Basisweg 2, Weesp | 12:00 - 14:00 | register here