Amsterdam Light Festival, December and January, Amsterdam – artists from around the world come to Amsterdam with creations of light which are displayed through the city. There are numerous walking tours which provide a route around the art. This is one best seen at night!
Bloemencorso (Flower Parade), April, Noordwijk to Haarlem – in this four-day festival, parade floats are decorated with flowers in surprising forms. These floats travel for four days from Noordwijk to Haarlem to celebrate Spring, and the spectacle is worth seeing at least once in your life.
Koningsdag (King’s Day), April 27th, whole country – live bands provide the soundscape to this lively Spring festival celebrating the King’s birthday, where you’ll find street parties, parades, and colourful boats traversing the Amsterdam canals. There are big celebrations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, while smaller town and cities celebrate in a more peaceful manner.
Rotterdam Summer Carnival, July, Rotterdam – in one of the largest Carnivals of Europe celebrating Latin American, the streets of Rotterdam come alive to drumbeats, brass bands, and dancers. There are parades and outdoor stages showcasing incredible musical talent, as well as an epic food market!
National Restaurant Week, September, Amsterdam – this foodie festival sees Amsterdam’s best restaurants charge minimal prices for their exquisite food, allowing people who may not normally be able to afford a plate to experience top-tier dining.
Amsterdam Dance Event, October, Amsterdam – ADE is the biggest dance and electronic music event in the world, and the capital’s streets pound to the beat of electronica, turning the city into one giant club.