Festive season
It may be cold outside, but the joy and sparkle of Amsterdam’s festive season will keep everyone warm. From November to January, the city comes alive with twinkling lights, buzzing holiday markets, concerts, plays, and parties whilst the aroma of mulled wine and oliebollen wafts through the air. Here are our guides to Sinterklaas, Amsterdam Light Festival, Christmas and New Year's Eve in Amsterdam.
Our favourite festivities this season
16
Nov '25
Arrival of Sinterklaas
10:00 - 15:30
Sinterklaas Intocht Amsterdam
Free entrance
01
Jan '26
New Year's Swim
12:00 - 15:00
Strandafgang De
17
Feb '26
Lunar New Year
15:30 - 22:45
Diverse locaties / Various locations
21
Dec '25
Funky Xmas Market
12:00 - 18:00
Westerpark
Free entrance
14
Nov '25
15
Feb '26
Ice Rink at Museumplein
At various times
Museumplein
