Christmas 2026

Late November to early January

In December, Amsterdam is full of Christmas spirit, with Christmas shopping, ice skating and hot chocolate on the city's squares.

Christmas tree on Dam square

Every December a large illuminated Christmas tree stands on Dam Square, in front of the Royal Palace.

Lights: the tree, more than 20 metres tall, is decorated with around 40,000 LED lights.
When: the tree is put up in early December; the lights are switched on during December and the tree stays until January.
Bijenkorf: together with the festively lit facade of the Bijenkorf, the tree is the symbol of December in the city.

World Christmas Circus

Every year around Christmas, the World [i]Christmas Circus[/i] (Wereldkerstcircus) performs at Royal Theatre Carré on the Amstel.

What: a festive circus show with top artists from all over the world, from acrobats and jugglers to clowns.
When: the 40th edition runs from Wednesday 16 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027.
Where: Royal Theatre Carré, Amstel 115-125.
Website: carre.nl

Christmas events near Amsterdam

Take your wishlist and swap Amsterdam for a day out at one of these magical Christmas markets nearby. In addition to an endless array of unique gifts, you can also indulge in all sorts of festive treats. Savour, shop, and browse.

Light Festival Amsterdam

The canals and streets of Amsterdam are transformed into a magical museum of light each year.

Beautiful winter event, The canals and streets of Amsterdam are transformed annually into a magical light museum.
International light art, Admire the large light installations created by artists from various countries.
All around the city centre, Light sculptures are spread throughout the heart of Amsterdam, perfect for a special evening walk.
Unique boat route, Take a special festival boat tour and see all the highlights from the water.

When: Thursday 26 November 2026 – Sunday 17 January 2027

Prins Hendrikkade

Amsterdam Winter Paradise

The Amsterdamse Winterparadijs immerses you in a cosy winter village full of Christmas lights, pine trees and festive winter decorations.

Covered ice rink: A large ice rink with real winter charm forms the heart of the festival. Skates can be rented on site.
Attractions and games: Spread across the grounds are fun attractions, winter themed games and great photo spots.
Winter decorations: Thousands of lights and atmospheric decorations create a warm and festive ambiance.

When: Saturday 12 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027

RAI, Europaplein 1

Ice rink on the Museumplein

With its nostalgic drawbridge, sparkling lights and the iconic view of the Rijksmuseum, this is one of the most atmospheric places in the city to go ice skating.

Iconic location: Skate in the cultural heart of Amsterdam, surrounded by the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and the Concertgebouw.
Amsterdam winter tradition: For nearly three months, the ice rink forms the centre of winter cheer on the Museumplein.
For all ages: Whether you're skating your first laps or have years of experience, the rink is suitable for all ages and levels.

When: Saturday 24 October 2026 – Saturday 16 January 2027
Website: www.schaatsbaanmuseumplein.nl

Museumplein

Pure Markt

At the winter edition of the Pure Markt in Park Frankendael you will find fresh, pure produce from small makers and farmers, ideal for your Christmas dinner or an original gift. Entry is free.

When: Sunday 20 December 2026
Website: puremarkt.nl

Park Frankendael

Funky Xmas Market

In December, the Sunday Market at the Westergas site turns into the Funky Xmas Market, with stalls full of handmade products, design and original Christmas gifts, live music and tasty street food. Entry is free.

When: Sunday 20 December 2026
Website: www.sundaymarket.nl

Westergas, Polonceaukade 27

Neem je wishlist mee en verruil Amsterdam voor een dagje uit naar een van deze magische kerstmarkten in de omgeving. Naast een oneindig aanbod aan bijzondere cadeautjes, kun je er ook snoepen van allerlei feestelijke lekkernijen. Smul, shop en snuffel rond.

Location Christmas

Rembrandtplein & RAI

Display Christmas
on the map

Other events in Amsterdam

Ice rink on the Museumplein;
Saturday 24 October 2026 – Saturday 16 January 2027
Amsterdam Winter Paradise;
Saturday 12 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027
Prinsengracht Concert;
Saturday 21 August 2027
Hartjesdag on the Zeedijk;
Amsterdam Fringe Festival;
Light Festival Amsterdam;
Thursday 26 November 2026 – Sunday 17 January 2027

Entire list