Expert recommendations of the top events—with tips on how to best experience these celebrations.
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Queen’s Day (Koninginnedag)
April 30. Amsterdam’s version of Mardi Gras, this celebration of the Dutch monarch’s birthday (actually Queen Juliana’s birthday, now adopted by the reigning Queen Beatrix) features a city wide flea market (everyone is allowed to set up stalls), parades, platoons of party boats on the canals, dancing in the streets, and an all-night party on April 29th.
Open Garden Days
Mid-June. Private houses along the canals offer tours of their lush, hidden back gardens.
Holland Festival of the Performing Arts
First three weeks of June. A massive line-up of national and international opera, dance, theater, and concert performances; tickets go on sale early March and often sell out quickly for the most anticipated performances. www.hollandfestival.nl
Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival)
August. A series of concerts held in various locations throughout the city center; one of the festival highlights is a concert performed on a stage floating on the Prinsengracht. www.grachtenfestival.nl
Amsterdam Dance Event
October. A three-day dance and music spectacle, featuring more than 300 acts and DJs spread over 30 clubs including Paradiso, Panama, and Meklweg. www.amsterdam-dance-event.nl
Museum Night
Early November. Over 40 museums open their doors to the public at night, with special events, performances, and DJs.
