The Netherlands is a country full of vibrant culture, rich traditions, and world-famous celebrations. From colorful flower parades to lively music festivals and historic events, there is always something happening across the country. If you’re planning a trip, here are the top events and festivals in the Netherlands that you should add to your itinerary.

Why Visit the Netherlands for an Event?

The Netherlands is known how to celebrate life. Whether it’s a national holiday, a city-wide parade, or an international festival, events in the Netherlands bring locals and tourists together. Attending these celebrations gives you a deeper look into Dutch culture and traditions while enjoying unforgettable experiences.

Major Annual Events and Celebrations

New Year’s Dive in the North Sea

If you are looking for unforgettable things to do in the Netherlands in January the famous Scheveningen New Year’s Dive is at the top of the list. Every January 1 thousands of people take part in this icy tradition by running into the North Sea together. It has become one of the most iconic Dutch New Year’s traditions and is a true bucket list experience for visitors.

The event takes place at Scheveningen beach near The Hague where crowds gather to cheer on the brave participants. The atmosphere is festive with live music and plenty of hot drinks and Dutch specialties like ‘erwtensoep’ to warm up afterwards. Whether you join the dive yourself or simply watch from the sidelines this is one of the most unique New Year events in the Netherlands.

For international travelers it is the perfect way to start the year with energy while experiencing local culture up close. Capture the moment on camera for your Instagram or just soak in the excitement of this winter activity in the Netherlands. If you want a story worth telling the Scheveningen New Year’s Dive is an absolute must.

Elfstedentocht – The Legendary Eleven Cities Tour in Friesland

When winter in the Netherlands truly freezes over something magical might happen: the Elfstedentocht. Known in English as the Eleven Cities Tour this legendary ice skating race takes place in the northern province of Friesland and has become one of the most famous events in the Netherlands. Covering nearly 200 kilometers along frozen canals rivers and lakes the route connects eleven historic Frisian towns and brings together both professional athletes and everyday skaters.

The Elfstedentocht is not an annual event – it only happens when the ice is thick enough to safely support thousands of skaters. That rarity makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The last official Eleven Cities Tour took place in 1997 yet the tradition remains one of the most iconic Dutch ice skating events and continues to spark excitement every winter.

For travelers it is not just about the race but about the culture surrounding it. Villages along the route transform into festive hubs with cheering crowds live music and warm Dutch food to keep spirits high. Even if the official Elfstedentocht is not held during your visit you can still experience the route by skating parts of it yourself exploring the towns by bike or joining guided tours.

If you are searching for authentic things to do in the Netherlands in winter the Elfstedentocht is the ultimate mix of Dutch history tradition and adventure. Whether you are skating the frozen canals or simply soaking up the atmosphere in Friesland this legendary event is a story you will never forget.

Carnival in the Netherlands

Carnival is one of the largest events in the Netherlands around spring break. It is pronounced Carnaval instead of Carnival in Dutch. It is a lively festival that many people enjoy every year. It happens in the south of the country, mainly in the provinces of Limburg and North Brabant. The festival lasts for several days and includes music, parades, costumes, and street parties. People dress up in colorful clothes and masks, and the streets become full of energy and joy. Families, friends, and tourists all join in the celebrations.

Carnival has a long history in the Netherlands. It started as a way to enjoy fun and food before the fasting period of Lent. Today, it has become a big cultural event. You will see local traditions, dancing, singing, and unique customs that make Dutch Carnival special. Everyone can join, and it is a chance to experience the culture and spirit of the country. Many towns have their own ways of celebrating, which makes each visit different. You will enjoy the music, the colorful streets, and the happy atmosphere during this festival. Carnival is not just for locals. Visitors from other countries can experience the excitement and join in the parades and parties. It is an unforgettable event for anyone visiting the Netherlands during this time.

When and Where to Celebrate Carnival

Carnival takes place every year in February or March, depending on the date of Easter. The festival usually lasts for four days, from Friday to Tuesday. Most celebrations happen in the southern provinces of the Netherlands. Limburg and North Brabant are the main regions to visit. Cities like Maastricht, Breda, and ‘s-Hertogenbosch host the largest events. Smaller towns also have local parades and street parties that are fun to explore. Each city has its own unique style and traditions. For example, Maastricht has big parades and music events, while ‘s-Hertogenbosch is famous for its costumes and street performances. You should check the dates in advance to plan your visit. Some towns have their own opening ceremonies that start the celebrations. Many people travel to these cities from other parts of the country and from abroad. During Carnival, the streets are full of people, music, and dancing. Restaurants and cafes also join the fun with special food and drinks. You can experience local traditions and enjoy the festive atmosphere in different cities. Planning your trip carefully helps you see the most exciting events and enjoy the festival safely.

Carnival Dates by Year

Carnival does not have the same dates every year. It changes because it depends on the Easter calendar. Usually, it starts on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and ends on Tuesday night. For example, in 2026, Carnival starts on February 13 and ends on February 17. In 2027, it will take place from February 5 to February 9. Knowing the exact dates is important if you want to visit the festival. You can plan your travel, accommodation, and activities around these dates. Many cities prepare their parades, street parties, and events in advance. Checking the schedule also helps you avoid missing special performances or local ceremonies. Each year, local organizers share official programs for tourists and residents. You will find music events, costume contests, and street parades on the program. Being aware of the dates lets you experience the full Carnival atmosphere and enjoy the festival safely. Travelers can use this information to book transport and hotels in advance, as popular cities get very crowded during Carnival.

Regions with the Biggest Celebrations

The southern part of the Netherlands has the biggest Carnival celebrations. Limburg and North Brabant are the main regions to visit. Cities like Maastricht, Breda, and ‘s-Hertogenbosch host large parades and street parties. Each city has its own way of celebrating, so visiting multiple cities can give a variety of experiences. Small towns also join the fun with local events and traditional music. People wear colorful costumes and masks, and the streets are full of music, dancing, and laughter. The atmosphere is friendly and lively. Local traditions play an important role in these regions. You will see brass bands, floats, and groups performing in the streets. Food and drinks are part of the celebration, and many restaurants offer special dishes. The regions have different styles of music and costumes, which makes each city unique. Tourists can enjoy the mix of local culture, entertainment, and community spirit. Visiting the south of the Netherlands during Carnival gives you the best chance to see the festival at its full energy.

Top Carnival Cities to Visit

The Netherlands has several cities where Carnival is celebrated at its best. Maastricht is the heart of Dutch Carnival. The city has big parades, music events, and colorful streets full of party-goers. ‘s-Hertogenbosch is famous for its unique costumes and lively street performances. You can enjoy music, dancing, and traditional local events in this city. Breda offers friendly street parties and local traditions that make the festival special. Each city has a different style of celebration, so exploring more than one city can be exciting. Tourists can join in the parades, enjoy food and drinks, and take part in traditional activities. Cities also organize events for children and families, so the festival is suitable for everyone. Street performers, musicians, and dancers create a vibrant atmosphere that visitors will remember. Visiting these cities during Carnival gives you the chance to experience Dutch culture and the festive spirit of the country in a fun and lively way. You will see how locals celebrate and enjoy the festival in their own way.

Maastricht: The Heart of Dutch Carnival

Maastricht is one of the best cities to experience Carnival in the Netherlands. The city hosts large parades with colorful floats, music bands, and dancers. Streets fill with people in costumes, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Many local bars and restaurants join the celebration with special food and drinks. Maastricht has a long history of celebrating Carnival, and locals take pride in their traditions. Tourists can enjoy street performances, live music, and cultural events. The city also organizes costume contests and competitions that visitors can watch or join. Walking through the streets, you will see creative masks and outfits that show the local culture. The city center is full of energy, and everyone is invited to participate in the fun. Maastricht combines tradition and entertainment, making it a top destination for Carnival visitors in the Netherlands.

Den Bosch: Famous for Parades and Costumes

Den Bosch is a city known for its unique Carnival parades and creative costumes. People of all ages join the celebrations wearing colorful clothes and masks. Street performances and music make the city lively and exciting. The city has a mix of traditional and modern Carnival events. You can enjoy dancing, singing, and parades with local groups. Many restaurants and cafes offer special dishes and drinks during the festival. Families and tourists can join in fun activities organized in the streets. Den Bosch has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for visitors to feel part of the celebrations. The city also has events for children, so everyone can enjoy the festival. Visiting Den Bosch during Carnival shows how locals celebrate with creativity, joy, and music.

Breda: Street Parties and Local Traditions

Breda is a city where Carnival is celebrated with street parties and local traditions. People fill the streets with music, dancing, and colorful costumes. Local groups perform in the streets, and everyone can join the fun. Restaurants and bars offer special drinks and food during the festival. Breda has a friendly atmosphere, and the locals welcome visitors warmly. Families, friends, and tourists all enjoy the celebrations together. The city also organizes traditional events like costume contests and parades. Walking through Breda during Carnival gives you the chance to experience Dutch culture and local customs. The city is lively, exciting, and full of energy, making it a great place to enjoy Carnival in the Netherlands.

What to Expect During Carnival

During Carnival, you can expect lively streets, music, parades, and colorful costumes. People dress up in creative outfits and masks, and the atmosphere is fun and energetic. Local traditions play an important role in the festival, with music bands, floats, and street performances. You will find many food and drink options, from local dishes to sweet treats. Streets are full of dancing, singing, and celebrations with friends and family.

The festival includes special events for children, adults, and tourists. You can watch parades, join in dances, and enjoy the cultural experience. Carnival is a time when the community comes together to celebrate, and visitors can feel the joy and excitement. Each city has its own style of celebration, so visiting different towns can give you a variety of experiences. You will see a mix of tradition, creativity, and fun that makes Dutch Carnival special. Plan your visit carefully to enjoy the festival safely and fully experience the celebrations in the streets and public squares.

King’s Day (Koningsdag)

Every April 27, the entire country turns orange to celebrate the birthday of the Dutch king. Expect street parties, flea markets, boat parades, and music festivals in every city.

King’s Day, celebrated on April 27, is one of the Netherlands’ most beloved national holidays, honoring King Willem-Alexander’s birthday. Known locally as Koningsdag, this festive day has roots that stretch back to 1885 when it was first celebrated as Princess’s Day in honor of Princess Wilhelmina, who would later become queen.

The holiday evolved over time, transforming into Queen’s Day during the reigns of Queen Juliana and Queen Beatrix, before officially becoming King’s Day in 2013 when Willem-Alexander took the throne. On this day, the entire country bursts into a sea of orange, as revelers wear the national color in honor of the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. It’s a day of lively celebrations, open-air markets, parades, and festivities, especially in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, which attract visitors from around the world.

Amsterdam Pride

Held every summer, Amsterdam Pride is one of the world’s most colorful LGBTQ+ events. The highlight is the famous canal parade, where boats turn the city’s waterways into a floating rainbow celebration.

Rotterdam International Film Festival

One of Europe’s most respected film festivals, this event showcases innovative cinema and attracts filmmakers and visitors from all over the world.

The Hague Jazz Festival

A must for music lovers, this event features international jazz artists and a vibrant atmosphere in the political capital of the Netherlands.

Tulip Festival and Keukenhof

Each spring, millions of tulips bloom across the country. The Tulip Festival in Amsterdam and the world-famous Keukenhof gardens showcase the beauty of the Dutch flower season.

Dance Valley

Known as the “Woodstock of Dance,” Dance Valley is one of the biggest electronic music festivals in the Netherlands.

Holland Festival

This long-running performing arts festival features theater, opera, dance, and music in venues across Amsterdam.

Museum Night

Amsterdam’s museums open their doors at night, offering special exhibitions, performances, and workshops with a lively cultural twist.

Christmas Markets

During December, Dutch cities light up with festive Christmas markets where you can enjoy traditional food, ice skating, and holiday shopping.

SAIL Amsterdam

Every five years, Amsterdam hosts one of the world’s largest sailing events, where tall ships and historic vessels fill the harbor.

SAIL is one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated maritime events, bringing together a spectacular fleet of historic tall ships, modern vessels, and maritime enthusiasts from around the world. Held every five years in Amsterdam, this multi-day event transforms the city’s waterfront into a bustling harbor teeming with majestic ships, vibrant parades, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. SAIL began in 1975 as part of Amsterdam’s celebrations and has since become a cherished tradition, drawing millions of spectators to the IJhaven and surrounding areas.

Highlights of the event SAIL

The highlight of the event is the grand SAIL-In Parade, where over 600 ships, including iconic tall ships from around the world, make a ceremonial entrance into the harbor. The event also includes naval displays, historic reenactments, and hands-on activities where visitors can tour various ships, learn about maritime history, and even participate in sailing experiences. SAIL is not only a celebration of Dutch nautical heritage but also a showcase of international maritime culture, featuring vessels from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

While Amsterdam is the central location for SAIL, the event often encourages related maritime celebrations across the Netherlands, including coastal cities like Rotterdam and Den Helder, where local festivals coincide with the main event. However, the grandeur and scale of SAIL in Amsterdam make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many attendees. SAIL’s five-year interval builds anticipation, allowing the event to grow in scale and draw increasingly rare ships and renowned vessels from around the globe.

For maritime enthusiasts, the infrequency of SAIL adds to its allure, making it a must-see event when it returns every half-decade. From its bustling ship parades to cultural performances and educational exhibits, SAIL is a celebration of seafaring tradition and adventure, offering a unique chance to witness one of the largest maritime gatherings worldwide in the iconic setting of Amsterdam’s waterways.

Amsterdam Marathon

People from all over the world sign up for this marathon.

New Years Eve

New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands is a night of lively traditions, citywide celebrations, and local customs that make it a uniquely Dutch experience. Known as Oud en Nieuw (Old and New), the holiday sees people across the country coming together to say farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with friends, family, and festivities.

The evening usually starts with smaller gatherings at home, where traditional Dutch treats like oliebollen (fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar) and appelflappen (apple fritters) are served, often alongside drinks as people share their highlights and reflections of the year.

Just before midnight, anticipation builds as the streets and city squares begin to fill with revelers awaiting the arrival of the new year. In Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, many people gather in central locations for public firework displays and music events that bring an electric atmosphere to the night. Rotterdam, in particular, hosts the largest official firework show in the Netherlands on the Erasmus Bridge, drawing thousands of visitors to the riverside for an unforgettable view.

Fireworks and the New Year’s Dive the day after

When midnight strikes, the skies across the country explode with color as residents and visitors alike ignite their own fireworks, a Dutch tradition that allows individuals to purchase and set off fireworks from December 31st to January 1st.

This has been a beloved part of the celebration, though recent regulations have limited certain types of fireworks to ensure safety, with many people opting to enjoy the organized displays instead. The sound of crackling fireworks, cheers, and toasts fill the air, and the streets stay busy well into the early hours as people make their way to parties, clubs, and bars, many of which host special New Year’s Eve events.

For those in coastal regions, the celebrations don’t end there; New Year’s Day brings another popular Dutch tradition—the New Year’s Dive (Nieuwjaarsduik), where brave souls take a plunge into the chilly North Sea, with the largest dive held at Scheveningen beach. For anyone celebrating New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands, it’s a time filled with warmth, excitement, and Dutch cheer, promising a memorable start to the year ahead.