The NN Dam tot Damloop is the most famous running event of the Netherlands. The 40th anniversary edition takes place on 19 and 20 September 2026, when around 95,000 runners cover the 10 English miles (16.1 km) from the Dam in Amsterdam to the Dam in Zaandam, cheered on by hundreds of thousands of spectators.

A unique course from Dam to Dam

The race starts in the heart of Amsterdam, on Prins Hendrikkade near Central Station. The most spectacular part follows immediately: runners pass through the IJ tunnel, which is closed to traffic for the occasion – the only day of the year you can cross under the IJ on foot. Via Amsterdam Noord the course continues through Zaandam’s festive streets to the finish at the Dam in Zaandam, where the party continues all afternoon.

Programme 2026

• Saturday 19 September: Damloop by Night – an atmospheric 8 km evening run through Zaandam (19:45-21:15) with music and thousands of spectators
• Sunday 20 September: the classic 10 English miles, with start groups leaving from 09:19; also a business run and kids runs

Best places to watch

The start on Prins Hendrikkade is easily combined with a stroll along the waterfront. In Amsterdam Noord the crowds are thinner, so you can see the runners up close; in Zaandam the finish area is one big street party with live music along the final kilometres.

Practical information

• Dates: 19-20 September 2026 (40th edition)
• Start: Prins Hendrikkade, Amsterdam – 2 minutes from Central Station
• Registration: via the official website; the race sells out every year
• Note: roads around Central Station and the IJ tunnel are closed on Sunday morning

Staying the weekend? Book a hotel in Amsterdam and celebrate your medal with a canal cruise past the city’s highlights.