Winter Festival Amsterdam is the umbrella for everything that makes the city magical in winter. From 26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027, Amsterdam celebrates the darkest months with light art, ice skating, markets and festive events across town.

The winter season at a glance

• Amsterdam Light Festival: the 15th edition of the world-famous light art exhibition on and along the canals (26 Nov – 17 Jan)
• Ice Amsterdam: skating on Museumplein with the Rijksmuseum backdrop
• Christmas markets: from Museumplein to the Jordaan
• Amsterdam Winter Paradise: the giant indoor winter fair at RAI
• Sinterklaas arrival, Christmas concerts and New Year’s Eve

Why winter is Amsterdam’s secret season

Fewer crowds, moody light over the canals, museums at their quietest and the city at its most atmospheric. The absolute must-do: a heated evening canal cruise past the Light Festival artworks, mulled wine in hand.

Practical information

• Period: 26 November 2026 – 17 January 2027
• Complete programme: winterfestivalamsterdam.com
• Hotels: December weekends fill up first – book ahead