Winter has arrived, but that’s no reason to stay home bored, daydreaming about how great it would be to be out there enjoying life, celebrating the holidays with friends, or trying something different with the family.
Lucky for you, Amsterdam is a fantastic city, perfectly set up to keep you warm with cozy spots and incredible experiences. Don’t sit still! We’ve put together a handy list of amazing things to do, whether you’re new in town or a local.
Here are some recommendations for you!
Amsterdam Winter Festival
Amsterdam Winter Festival
Amsterdam has no off-season when it comes to art, culture, and entertainment. As winter begins, the city transforms into a spectacle of light. Pure magic! Whether you're new to Amsterdam or a local eager to get off the couch, our top tip is to take advantage of the many activities offered by artists and the city itself.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Don't miss the Amsterdam Light Festival, where artists from around the globe showcase their extraordinary creations throughout the city center and along the canals. The theme for this 13th edition is Rituals, promising another year of dazzling displays. And if you’d like to know more about this specific event, click here, we have an entire post dedicated to it and some of its featured artists. And if you're looking for an experience through the canals, click here in our recommendation.
Ice Sculpture Festival
As Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary, history comes alive through the breathtaking ice sculptures and interactive installations at Art Below Zero, held at the historic Central Markthal. This unique event runs from December 21st to March 2nd and is perfect for all ages. A chance to create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Click here to get more information and tickets.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise
It's such a fun way to spend the day. They’ve got live shows with some amazing Dutch artists (we can pick the day depending on who’s playing), a crazy Boomerang slide, and a new Après-ski village that looks super cozy.
There’s also skating indoors and outside, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and even cross-country skiing if we’re feeling adventurous. It’s perfect for a winter vibe and for the family
Plan your visit and make your winter unforgettable.
Winter Wonder Walk Museum
Take a journey through Amsterdam’s iconic Museum District, guided by the voice of renowned storyteller Willem de Ridder. His captivating narration brings the area to life, sharing fascinating tales and hidden secrets along the way. This activity is perfect for the whole family, as you explore the Museum Quarter, Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, and Van Gogh Museum (we’ll dive deeper into these venues in another post). You'll also learn about one of the city’s most famous concert halls, the Concertgebouw.
If you'd like to combine the walk with museum visits, don’t forget to secure your tickets in advance. To learn more about this experience, click the link.
To enjoy more of these events you can buy the Amsterdam Winter Festival Card opens the door to countless experiences, including the Light Festival Cruise, a 10% discount on top attractions, and, most importantly, unlimited travel on trams, buses, metros, and ferries. With the card, you can also download a handy guide packed with insights about artists and curiosities, ensuring you make the most of all the city has to offer.
Chèri Chèri - Biggest Drag Show in Europe
To announce the largest drag show in Europe, let’s hear it straight from the organizers themselves:
"This sensational production offers more than ever before: more queens, more dancers, more costumes, and more unforgettable moments. Each scene is brimming with energy, passion, and messages of self-acceptance and authenticity, sweeping the audience into a world of freedom and individuality.”
Amsterdam continues to be a city of pure magic and shared experiences. Our goal in promoting entertainment activities is simply to celebrate the artists behind them. This massive event features incredible stars like Envy Peru, Vanessa van Cartier, Janey Jacké, Skyla Versai, Sederginne, and many more.
Showtimes
- Thursdays & Fridays: Doors open at 7:00 PM, show begins at 8:00 PM.
- Sundays: Doors open at 3:30 PM, show begins at 4:30 PM.
Click here to learn more about this event and plan your activities this winter.
These are just a few ideas for enjoying one of the world’s most vibrant and artistic cities this December, and if you're curious about what else is happening in Amsterdam, our blog is just getting started!
From the biggest concerts of 2025 to hidden gems and unforgettable cultural experiences, there’s so much more to explore. Stay tuned for upcoming posts filled with fresh ideas and inspiration to make the most of every season. Don’t miss out keep reading and keep discovering!
