Vondel Magazine

Christmas markets 

Amsterdam’s Christmas markets feature stalls with colourful gifts, artisanal bites, hot drinks, and activities for all age groups. Some of the must-visit markets include: 

1. RAI Winter Paradise (Dec 13 – Jan 3): Indoor and outdoor skating, tube sliding, live shows, and food halls.
2. Amsterdam Christmas Market at Museumplein (Dec 4 – 28): Shop from Dutch designers, savour seasonal bites, and skate in the heart of the museum district.
3. Funky Xmas Market (Dec 21): Art, fashion, jewellery, and design pieces at Westergas-perfect for enthusiasts of original creations and art.

Alternatively, you can visit the Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein markets, located in the centre of Amsterdam, or take a day trip to one of Amsterdam’s neighbouring cities and enjoy their Christmas markets. 

Examples include Haarlem's Christmas market, Winter Village Amstelveen, The Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague. 

Tip: Stay at Hotel Roemer or Hotel van de Vijsel, both near Museumplein, offering easy access to the Amsterdam Christmas Market and world-renowned museums.

Cultural Events 

 The Christmas season is rich with culture, including dance performances, concerts, and even a grand circus. 

Highlights include: 

• Christmas concerts at the Royal Concertgebouw: Including the Christmas Matinee, Baroque Classics, and more.
• The Amsterdam Cabaret Show at Paleis van de Weemoed: Offering shows by world-class dancers.
• Dutch National Opera & Ballet: Performances in ballet, opera, and orchestra.
• World Christmas Circus at Koninklijk Theater Carré: a 34-year tradition featuring dance, acrobatics, and performances.  

Click here to view other events including candlelight and family-friendly concerts. 

Christmas services by churches

Visit Amsterdam’s churches and cathedrals and attend their Christmas Eve services, including carols and special services. You can visit to simply enjoy the carols, or you can sing along! 

Some churches we recommend visiting include the English Reformed Church in the Begijnhof (a quiet oasis in the centre), the Westerkerk (a historic Dutch Protestant church), and the Christ Church Amsterdam. 

Tip: Stay at Hotel MAI Amsterdam or Hotel Mercier to be close to cultural events and historic churches offering carol services.

Dutch treats 

When in Amsterdam during the holidays, treat yourself to traditional Dutch treats like oliebollen (sweet fried dough balls) and appelbeignets (crispy apple fritters). You’ll find them at festive street markets or as part of a guided food tour.

Other seasonal favourites include kruidnoten and speculaas, spiced with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg. Don’t miss pepernoten, bite-sized biscuits with a hint of anise, and chocolate letters, a typical Sinterklaas tradition. These are easy to find in local supermarkets or specialty shops. 

New Year’s Eve 

Ideas to spend New Year’s Eve include: 

• Fireworks: Enjoy impressive displays at Dam Square, Museumplein, and Sloterplas.
• Live music & concerts: Indulge in festive performances, including special events at the Concertgebouw.
• Dance all night: Explore Amsterdam’s dance scene by visiting one of its countless parties. Click here for some inspiration.
• New Year’s Dip: Embrace a typical Dutch tradition by swimming in the North Sea to celebrate the New Year and raise money for charity. The biggest one takes place in Zandvoort aan Zee, but there are plenty of smaller ones across the country.
• Canal Cruise: Toast to the New Year on Amsterdam’s illuminated canals and surround yourself with Christmas decorations and light artwork. Click here to view festive packages. 

Let's celebrate this festive season together!

Pack your warm clothes and an umbrella, and spend this festive season in the postcard-like city that never sleeps! Enjoy Christmas markets, cultural events, and local traditions by staying close to everything Amsterdam has to offer. Browse our centrally located hotels.