Amsterdam experiences a festive atmosphere during Christmastime with its light displays, markets, and festivities. The city adorns its historic streets, canals, and squares with thousands of lights to create a Christmas atmosphere. The light festival, featuring stunning sculptures along the canals, is a notable tradition starting from late November to December. Sinterklaas, the Dutch counterpart to Santa Claus, typically arrives in Amsterdam by boat in late November. Dutch Christmas, known as Kerst, is celebrated on December 25th and 26th. The city maintains a lively atmosphere with Christmas markets and concerts.
Christmas Traditions in Amsterdam
These are but a few of the many ways in which Christmas is celebrated in Amsterdam. There are a lot of fun things to do and the city is full with Christmas spirit. Some of the oldest and most revered Amsterdam customs are as follows:
Amsterdam Light Festival
From the middle of November to the middle of January, the city of Amsterdam hosts the annual Light Festival. Along the canals, visitors may see light projects made by artists from across the globe.
Sinterklaas Celebration
On the second or third Sunday in November, Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) arrives in Amsterdam, along with his companion Zwarte Piet to mark the beginning of Christmas. In Amsterdam, a massive party is planned each year for his arrival.
Oliebollen
These doughnut-like treats are a hallmark of the holiday season in Amsterdam. You may get them adorned with apple filling or just dusted with powdered sugar.
Ice Skating
In the winter months, Amsterdam transforms into a global ice skating center. Located on Museumplein, it is the most picturesque spot in Amsterdam during Christmas.
Decorated Amsterdam Neighborhoods
The festively adorned districts of Amsterdam are one of the top things to see in December, such as the ones in Amsterdam Centrum, Nieuwmarkt, NDSM, De Jordaan or De Wallen.
Museum Visits
One great thing to do in Christmas is to visit a museum in Amsterdam. The Willet-Holthuysen Museum is a popular Amsterdam attraction, especially during the Christmas season when it is adorned with festive decorations.
Kerstbomen: Dutch Christmas Trees
Christmas trees, or Kerstbomen, as they are known in the Netherlands, start popping up shortly after Sinterklaas eve. Decorated with lights and decorations, people place them in public areas and even their living rooms.
