Amsterdam Weekend Guide 21, 22, 23 December

It’s time for a new Amsterdam Weekend Guide. This edition is packed with fun Holiday events, the best places to go last minute Christmas Shopping and things to do this weekend. So, don’t worry about missing out on anything. Enjoy!

Entertainment for the whole family: World Christmas Circus

If you are looking for a family outing, the spectacular World Christmas Circus might be the perfect idea. This year they celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Classic Circus with a bigger show than ever at the iconic Amsterdam Carré Theater. Be amazed by this wonderful circus with horse acts, world renowned acrobats, and modern-day clowns. Prepare for a night filled with excitement and humor. Something you will not soon forget!

Royal Theater Carré – 20 December 2018 to 6 January 2019

Hortus by night

From 20 December on the botanical gardens of Amsterdam, The Hortus Botanicus, welcome you for a unique night time experience. As soon as it turns dark, the gardens will be illuminated by hundreds of lights, making for a magical scenery. Wander through and enjoy some hot chocolate milk or glühwein by the campfire. If you want to learn more about the behavior of plants and flowers during the night, you can book a guided tour.

Dining during Hortus by night

If you want to make the experience even more special you can reserve a table at the Hortus winter restaurant. Expect a delightful four-course dinner while enjoying an amazing view over the illuminated garden.

20 December 2018 – 6 January 2019 at Hortus Botanicus

Amsterdamse Winter Paradijs

For the biggest Christmas spectacle in town you can head over to Amsterdam Winter Paradise from 21 to 30 December. The RAI Amsterdam will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland with lots of things to do for young and old. Go for a ride in the huge Ferris Wheel, have some ice-skating fun on the in- and outdoor ice-skating rink and have a snowball fight with real snow! To warm your hands and hearts there will be hot chocolate, marshmallow roasting by the fire and Christmas movies shown at the theater. Food and beverages all around, live entertainment at night and an afterparty that goes wild until late!

21-30 December at the RAI Amsterdam

Rooftop Night Market

For a fun night out and some last minute gift shopping, head over to Jackie Amsterdam. On Friday they will organize a Rooftop Night Market with amazing art and craft items by local artists and designers. Expect delicious vegan and vegetarian food and boozy juices with a Caribbean twist, Glühwein and live gospel and DJ performances.

21 December 5.00 p.m. – 10.00 p.m. at Jackie Amsterdam – Hogehilweg 20

Friday Freshness at the Chin Chin Club

If you’re a lover of Hip Hop and R&B, Friday Freshness at the Chin Chin Club is the place to be on 21 December. Gather your friends and dance the night away to the best beats! Expect there to be lots of beautiful people, live entertainment and a little bit of holiday spirit. Tip: the Chin Chin Club also offers Asian inspired dinner. And if you head in before 9:00 p.m. for drinks at the bar you don’t have to get a ticket for the night program.

21 December 21:30 p.m. – 5:30 a.m. at Chin Chin Club

The Maker Market: Christmas XL Edition

It’s Christmas at The Hallen! The Christmas XL edition of The Maker Market will bring the holiday spirit alive with stands by young and innovative makers, live music and tasty treats & sweets. It’s the perfect spot to do some last minute Christmas shopping, if you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts. The Hallen is also home to De Foodhallen, with mini restaurants offering delicious street food style dishes from all over the world. From sushi to burgers and tapas to some of the best Gin&Tonics in town!

22 December 11.00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. / 23 December 12.00 – 5.00 p.m.

Winter Pure Markt

On Sunday it’s time for another Christmas edition of The Pure Markt at Park Frankendael. The market is mainly focused on food and beverages from all over the world. Expect to get a the taste of all sorts of cuisines, from traditional Dutch to American pies and beautiful wines. Next to that there will be live entertainment for the kids and stands with crafts and gift items made by local entrepreneurs.

23 December 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Park Frankendael

Christmas Shopping at De Bijenkorf

Not quite done with Christmas shopping yet? We have a tip for you! De Bijenkorf, located on the iconic Dam Square, offers everything from beauty products to fashion, interior, food and gift items. So if you don’t feel like running in and out of different stores, this is the place to go. The immense premium department store offers five floors of top brands, as well as culinary delights and unique souvenirs. You’ll be sure to find the perfect Christmas gifts and holiday outfits here.

We hope you have an amazing weekend with the help of our Amsterdam Weekend Guide. For more on things to do and places to visit, browse through our website. We cover everything from the best museums to visit to the Best places for breakfast in Amsterdam.

Happy Holidays!