Christmas Market in Haarlem
Hop on the sleigh to Haarlem. Your Christmas adventure starts in Haarlem, where the historic centre and old canals add an extra sprinkle of magic to the festivities. The traditional Christmas Market Haarlem brings a smile to the face of visitors of all ages. Indulge in festive sweets, pick up handmade trinkets, and enjoy Christmas carols sung by a choir in between.
- When: Friday, 12 to Sunday, 14 December 2025
- Free Entry
- Where: Grote Markt, Haarlem
- Public Transport: ±40 min. / ±20 km
- Website: www.visithaarlem.com/en/kerstmarkt
Nostalgic Christmas Market, Leiden
A charming scene will be set up on the beautiful Hooglandse Kerkgracht where lovely Christmas gifts can be purchased. Of course, the option to enjoy a delicious warm mulled wine or hot chocolate will not be missing.
- When:
– –
– – - Opening Hours: 12:00–17:00
- Free Entry
- Where: Hooglandse Kerkgracht, Leiden
- Public Transport: ±49 min. / ±50 km
- Website: www.visitleiden.nl
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: Middle of November to early January
- Where: Museumplein
- Website: www.schaatsbaanmuseumplein.nl
Ice Rink in Scheveningen
Every winter, Scheveningen transforms into a magical winter paradise during the Cool Event. Right on the Kurhausplein, a covered ice rink of no less than 600 m² sparkles, with the iconic Kurhaus hotel in the background.
- When: Late November to early January
- Where: Kurhausplein, Scheveningen
- Website: www.cooleventscheveningen.nl
Pure Markt
Whether you want to shop for Christmas dinner or simply fancy a leisurely stroll and some tasty treats, you'll find the freshest and purest products at the wintry edition of the Pure Markt in Amsterdam. There are multiple editions of the Winter Market in the atmospheric Park Frankendael.
- When: December
- Where: Park Frankendael
- Website: puremarkt.nl
Royal Christmas Fair, The Hague
In December, you can soak up the atmosphere, smell, and ultimate Christmas spirit in the Dutch political capital. Come and listen to one of the many storytellers and children's choirs. The Lange Voorhout is filled with cosy stalls offering flammkuchen, wood carvings, and wintry pelts.
- Where: Lange Voorhout, Den Haag
- Website: www.royalchristmasfair.nl
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: December
- Where: RAI, Europaplein 1
Funky Xmas Market
In December, the well-known Sunday Market gets decked out for the Funky Xmas Market. As usual, you can browse stalls for artisanal products, quirky home accessories, homemade sweets, savoury dishes, and unique gifts. Don't forget to take a breather and enjoy some live music and a cup of hot chocolate in between.
- When: December
- Where: Westergas, Polonceaukade 27
- Website: www.sundaymarket.nl
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.
- Where: Prins Hendrikkade
Rembrandtplein
Display Ice Fun at Rembrandtplein