While its spring tulip season draws most tourists to the area, Amsterdam has plenty of hidden and not-so-hidden attractions in the winter for those willing to tackle the colder weather.
The weeks leading up to December holidays in Amsterdam are popular with tourists, and hotel rates and airfares will be closer to those found in late spring and summer. But in January and February, the number of tourists drops significantly, so those looking to save money on their travel budget should be able to find good deals.
Winter days in Amsterdam are similar to those in the northeastern United States, with the sun setting from 4:30 pm to mid-December. The weather deters many tourists; December is the rainiest month in Amsterdam and February is the coldest.
Here’s what to expect if you are planning a trip to Amsterdam in the winter months.
Diciembre: Sinterklaas y Christmas
The traditions of the Christmas season are underway in Amsterdam in early December, as the Dutch celebrate Sinterklaasavond (Saint Nicholas’ Eve) on December 5.
To prepare for the arrival of Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas), Dutch children place their shoes by the fireplace at bedtime, as tradition demands that Sinterklaas leave treats in the shoes of well-behaved children. Some favorite treats include chocolates and a variety of flavored biscuits, speculaas brick size of a pepernoten and Kruidnoten bite. Sinterklaasavond is traditionally a children’s party in the Netherlands.
After Sinterklassavond ends, there is still Kerst (Christmas) to look forward to on December 25, when many Dutch (but not all) exchange Christmas presents. The Dutch celebrate with Christmas trees, light displays, and great family meals.
Then there is Tweede Kerstdag (Second Day of Christmas), celebrated on December 26. The Dutch take this national holiday to visit relatives or shop, especially to buy furniture.
December 31st is “Oud en Nieuw” (old and new), which is how the Dutch refer to New Year’s Eve. Amsterdam residents celebrate the coming year with parties throughout the city, from comedy shows to dance parties to music. The last days of December are also the only time of year when fireworks sales are allowed in Amsterdam, and fireworks displays throughout the city help usher in the new year.
January: New Years Day and Fashion Week
As in most countries in the world, January 1 is a national holiday in the Netherlands, as well as a day to recover from the shenanigans of New Year’s Eve. Note that many tourist attractions and other businesses are closed for the day, so check with individual attractions for holiday closures or reduced hours.
Given the cold weather, there are a surprising number of annual events held in Amsterdam in January, including one of the two Amsterdam International Fashion Week celebrations. This is the main event on the capital’s fashion calendar, and its ‘after hours’ events ensure plenty to see and do even beyond the catwalks. Fashion week is held in late July and late January and has many small events and shows as part of the main event.
Not all fashion week events are open to the public, so check the website for the latest information and ticket prices.
Another popular annual event in January is the International Improvisation Theater Festival, also known as Impro Amsterdam. Started in 1995, Impro Amsterdam attracts improv comedy artists from around the world, who take part in shows, workshops and talks. It is traditionally celebrated during the last week of January.
Amsterdam also hosts an annual equestrian tournament in January, called Jumping Amsterdam. The best athletes in various horse sports compete in various dressage categories. Jumping Amsterdam also features children’s shows, musical entertainment, and food and drink.
February: Valentine and Blues
Valentine’s Day is not a native Dutch holiday, and although the inhabitants of Amsterdam observe some of their traditions, it is not as celebrated as in the United States. Couples can celebrate with a romantic dinner at one of the city’s restaurants, or exchange small gifts.
If you are staying in Amsterdam and looking for a day trip, Delft is an hour away by train and hosts the annual De Koninck Blues festival every February. Blues musicians take over more than 30 venues in Delft’s Old Town for a few days of free performances. Some of the conferences and workshops charge modest fees.
Another must-see attraction is the annual Roermond Ice Sculpture Festival (about a two-hour train ride from Amsterdam. Every year, about 50 artists make a collection of ice and snow sculptures, which are kept cool in a thermal tent. I’ll definitely want to dress well – the temperature in that exhibit space is kept at minus 17 degrees.
In addition to the annual festivals, visitors to Amsterdam in winter can visit some of the city’s historic architecture, its famous Red Light District and its various museums. No matter the weather or the time of year, travelers to Amsterdam should have no trouble keeping busy in this culturally dynamic and picturesque city.
