If you’ve been following along for a while, you know that I really struggled with winter last year. Winter is very long and very dark here in Amsterdam, and can honestly be quite depressing. But believe it or not I’m actually loving winter right now.
This is mostly due to the fact that it’s really starting to feel like the holidays. Earlier this week I went skating with my friends at the rink near Rijksmuseum. As a former figure skater, I’ve spent much of my life in an ice rink. But there was something about skating outside, bundled up in my favorite Chicwish sweater, that really made it feel like the holidays already.
I’m all about following the cheerful holiday spirit and doing as many holiday activities as possible this time of year. So below I’m listing out all the best holiday activities in Amsterdam this year.
Have you ever been to Amsterdam during the holidays?
Xx, Kelsey
HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES IN AMSTERDAM
Ice Skating at Ice Amsterdam – During the holidays and through the end of January the cutest little ice rink is up in front of Rijksmuseum. One of my favorite activities is to spend time skating and then grab a warm drink in the attached cafe. Visit Ice Amsterdam at opening time if you want the rink to yourself.
Winter Market at Museumplein – From December 14 – 26 a winter market opens in Museumplein (same area as the rink). Sip on gluhwein while you admire the pretty stalls. And don’t forget to try a Dutch holiday tradition, oliebollen!
Amsterdam Light Festival – From December to January, artists are commissioned to create works of art using light on the canals for the Amsterdam Light Festival. You can do a walking tour, but the best way to see it is by boat.
Christmas Tree at Dam Square – Normally I don’t suggest visiting Dam Square because it’s a bit of a tourist trap. But during the holidays they put up a 20-meter-high tree decorated with thousands of lights. Combined with the lights on De Bijenkorf department store, it’s a sight to see.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise – If you’re here between December 21-30, you need to head to Amsterdam RAI. They’ll be having a Winter Paradise complete with indoor and outdoor rinks, real snow and a Ferris wheel.
Christmas Concert – Concertgebouw is one of the most beautiful buildings in Amsterdam. If you’re looking for holidays activities that are indoors, head here for a Christmas concert and admire the architecture.
Christmas Shopping – Check out Kalverstraat, Amsterdam’s shopping street, or visit De Bijenkorf to get all your gifts covered. They can both be quite crowded, but shopping under the Christmas lights feels very festive.
New Year’s Eve – This year will be my first time celebrating NYE in the Netherlands. The fireworks are supposed to be spectacular. Skinny Bridge is supposed to be a favorite spot to watch. If you’re in the mood to party, Amsterdam is home to every type of club and bar to suit your mood.
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Chicwish cropped sweater | Similar high rise Nike leggings | Earmuffs are old Banana Republic, but linking a fun pair here and here
