The Museumplein ice rink runs each year during the extended winter holiday season. The dates for 2026-27 are from 24 Oct 2026 to 16 Jan 2027.

Along with the Amsterdam Light Festival, it is one of the popular winter-themed events in the city.

The open-air rink is located on Amsterdam’s beautiful Museumplein square roughly between the Rijksmueum and the MOCO Museum.

There are 2 main entrances to the ice rink facility – one at the north side (Rijksmuseum) and the other at the south side (MOCO). It is freely accessible to the public, even if you don’t want to skate.

Here is a summary of the features of the Schaatsbaan Museumplein venue:

• Reasonably large rectangular ice rink, roughly 75m by 15m
• A traditional wooden bridge that runs over the ice rink and offers great views and selfie opportunities
• Catering available (food and drink) with a covered terrace seating area
• A hut for skate rental pick-up and return
• Toilet and locker facilities (charged) are on site

Ice skating is of course firmly etched into Dutch culture and history.

Amsterdam’s Museumplein has been a location for ice skating since the 19th century with the world all-round skating championships held here in 1893!

The rink in its current spot has been a near annual fixture since the 1990s.

Next to the ice skating rink is Amsterdam’s Ice*Village Christmas market. It is open between 3-27 Dec 2026 and has a dozens of stalls – from arts and crafts to artisanal food.

The market is open daily 12:00-21:00 (3-24 Dec 2026), 12:00-19:00 (25-26 Dec 2026) and 12:00-18:00 (27 Dec 2026).

If you are in Amsterdam why not get into the winter spirit of things and give ice skating on Museumplein a go. It makes for a great group activity and is brilliant for kids!

There are lots of attractions in the surrounding area including the Rijksmuseum, van Gogh Museum, MOCO Museum, Stedelijk and House of Bols.

Schaatsbaan Museumplein Hours-Tickets-Address

First published 2025, last checked and updated 2 November 2026.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

The post Museumplein Ice Rink in Amsterdam appeared first on AmsterdamTips.com.

With around 750 outdoor stalls (500 indoor stalls in winter) it is the largest regular flea market in the Netherlands and one of the biggest in Europe.

NDSM wharf can be easily reached from the back of Amsterdam Central station by hopping on the free GVB ferry. The trip takes about 15 minutes and offers some great views of the IJ river and Amsterdam’s waterfront development.

IJ-Hallen is either hosted outside in the former shipyard terrain area or inside one of the large warehouse buildings. The market is a short walk from the NDSM ferry wharf.

Note that the entire IJ-Hallen market is fenced off and an admission fee is required to enter the grounds. Tickets can be purchased online or at the outside kiosk.

We would estimate that about 2/3 of the stalls are selling second-hand and vintage clothes. But you will also find assorted bric-a-brac for sale in the form of accessories, furniture, homeware, vinyl records, bikes, books, antiques, old cameras and so on.

It is actually a bit reminiscent of the annual King’s Day free market in April where people sell their wares on the streets.

Prices are cheap and open to negotiation. This is not really the place to look for high-end antique pieces though you might find that gem of a bargain if you get there early.

Do bring cash with you as not all sellers will accept card payments. And bring spare bags if you plan to purchase a few items.

Most of the stall-holders are hobbyists and amateurs. If you are on the selling side, a standard stall is 4m by 1.10m and is available to rent for €36 per day whilst corner stands go for €42 per day. It is possible to bring a vehicle to the stall.

As a visitor, if you wish to temporarily leave the market then get a stamp on your hand which will allow you to re-enter later on that day.

The market itself has a few food trucks inside but queues can be long. However, there are a number of good restaurants/cafés around NDSM wharf such as IJKantine, IJver, Noorderlicht and Pllek.

The market is popular with both locals and visitors alike. Just a couple of things to watch out for – obviously it can get crowded so beware of pickpockets. Also, mind your step as the floors can be uneven in places – both indoors and outdoors.

If you love vintage and enjoy browsing flea markets then a visit to IJ-Hallen will make for a fun-filled few hours. Especially whilst surrounded by the post-industrial landscape of the eclectic NDSM-wharf area.

See our what’s on in Amsterdam section for IJ-Hallen dates or check IJ-Hallen’s site here.

You could combine IJ-Hallen with a visit to the stunning STRAAT Museum which showcases street art and graffiti.

IJ-Hallen Essential Info

This article was first published in 2016 and was last updated on 10 August 2026.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

The post IJ-Hallen Flea Market in Amsterdam appeared first on AmsterdamTips.com.

It is one of the world’s great open-air parties which sees Amsterdam going completely orange crazy with revellers on the streets, in parks and on boats afloat the water. Up to 800,000 visitors cram into the centre, temporarily doubling the city’s population.

When is King’s Day 2026

• King’s Night (Koningsnacht): Sunday 26 April 2026
• King’s Day (Koningsdag): Monday 27 April 2026

The 27th April date marks the birthday of the current Dutch King Willem-Alexander.

Previously the event was known as Queen’s Day and was held every 30th April – this was the birthday of former Queen Juliana. The date was changed following the abdication of Queen Beatrix in 2013 and the inauguration of the new King.

Apparently, a few people are still known to turn up in Amsterdam each year for 30th April – having read some out-of-date content online!

Note that whenever 27th April falls on a Sunday (as happened in 2025) – King’s Day is celebrated on 26th April.

On King’s Day morning each year the Dutch Royal family (House of Orange-Nassau) do a walkabout visit around a chosen town in the Netherlands – which is shown live on state television.

What happens in Amsterdam on King’s Day?

King’s Day in Amsterdam is the largest celebration in the Netherlands, drawing visitors from across the country as well as international tourists.

Essentially the centre of Amsterdam becomes a giant street and canal party. Events include:

• A free market (vrijmarkt) in Amsterdam
• Informal street parties and live music
• Packed canals with both private and commercial boats
• Food and drink stalls throughout the city
• Ticketed dance festivals at designated venues

The atmosphere varies by area. Some neighbourhoods are relaxed and family-focused, while others are crowded and party-oriented.

Book a King’s Day All-Inclusive Boat Party here

Vrijmarkt (Free Market) in Amsterdam

One of the main highlights of King’s Day in Amsterdam is the citywide free market (vrijmarkt). This is where people set up stalls and sell clothes, food, drinks and just about anything else – from plants, old electronics, vintage items, bric-a-brac and much old tat. Prices are negotiable which is all part of the fun.

Many Amsterdam residents set up shop directly outside their own houses – days before they mark their territory with tape or chalk (“bezet” meaning “occupied”). There are also professional traders and opportunists who take advantage of the tax-free trading.

The free market in Amsterdam officially starts from 06:00 on King’s Day and goes on all day until 20:00. Bargain hunters should get there early. By mid-afternoon some stalls are abandoned and you could be able to pick-up things for free.

Note: the following items cannot be for sale at the vrijmarkt: alcohol, meat, fish, dairy and live animals.

Best areas for the vrijmarkt:

• Jordaan and canal belt streets
• Vondelpark (children-focused)
• Westerpark and Oud-West areas
• De Pijp neighbourhood

Children’s markets and activities

Amsterdam’s Vondelpark hosts the main children’s vrijmarkt from 09:00 where kids can sell their unwanted books and toys. They also perform music and run small games.

Other children’s markets can be found (amongst others) at Amstelveld, Artisplein, Bellamyplein, Erasmuspark, Frederiksplein, Leliegracht 36-58, NDSM-wharf, Osdorpplein, Rembrandtplein, Sarphatipark and Westerpark.

These areas are generally calmer than the city centre and suitable for visitors with children.

Due to crowding, it is advised to avoid Jordaan and Westerstraat areas if you are with children.

King’s Night (Koningsnacht)

Celebrations actually start the evening before on Sunday 26 April 2026 – King’s Night (Koningsnacht). Bars, clubs and venues host events across the city with a strong focus on nightlife.

Note that the city of Utrecht (30 minutes south of Amsterdam by train) starts its free market on King’s Night (26 April) from 18:00 – with an authentic and friendly atmosphere, it’s well worth a visit.

King’s Day festivals (ticketed events)

In addition to the citywide party, several King’s Day festivals in Amsterdam take place which are among the biggest electronic music events of the year.

These require advance tickets and are held away from the busiest central areas. They can run until 22:00.

Major events include:

• Kingsland Festival (Olympic Stadium Amsterdam)
• Loveland Burst (Meerpark Amsterdam)
• Free Your Mind x Oranjebloesem (RAI Amsterdam)
• Cartel Kingsday (WestWeelde, Amsterdam)

Tickets are not sold at the door and often sell out well in advance.

Getting around on King’s Day

The best way of getting around Amsterdam on King’s Day is on foot – temporary signposts can guide you to areas of interest.

Transport in Amsterdam continues to operates but with restrictions due to crowds and road closures. You do require a ticket as normal – check Amsterdam transport ticket options.

GVB Public transport:

• Trams run limited or alternative routes and avoid the inner centre
• Metro, buses and ferries operate on adjusted timetables
• Some metro stations (such as RAI and Nieuwmarkt) are closed

NS Trains:

• Special national timetable in operation
• Check your trip with NS and allow extra travel time
• Extremely busy throughout the day

If arriving by train from outside Amsterdam consider stations such as Amsterdam Zuid or Amsterdam Amstel and from there walk into the centre.

Amsterdam RAI and Science Park train stations are closed on the day.

Baggage lockers at train stations are also not available.

What’s open on King’s Day?

Supermarkets do open on King’s Day though hours can be restricted in some branches. Most shops in the city centre remain closed.

Major museums in Amsterdam open on King’s Day include:

• Anne Frank House
• Rijksmuseum
• Stedelijk
• STRAAT
• MOCO Museum
• Van Gogh Museum

Note that most other museums including FOAM, Maritime Museum, NEMO, Rembrandt House and Wereldmuseum Amsterdam are closed.

The world-famous Keukenhof gardens are open on King’s Day.

Always check individual venues in advance.

Practical tips for visitors

• Arrive early: the city gets progressively busier
• Wear orange: even a small item helps you blend in
• Avoid peak areas: Dam Square and central canals can become extremely crowded
• Stay aware: pick-pocketing can occur in dense crowds
• Alcohol: You can only carry one alcoholic drink with you at any time
• Private boats: Can only have a maximum of 12 passengers+1 captain
• Plan meeting points: mobile networks can be overloaded; Livecrowd assistance on-the-day is available here

If you prefer a calmer experience, explore neighbourhoods outside the central canal belt.

King’s Day across the Netherlands

Although Amsterdam attracts the largest crowds, celebrations take place nationwide. Cities such as Arnhem, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Groningen, Haarlem, Rotterdam and Utrecht all host events, often with a slightly less intense atmosphere.

More events in April

Looking for more things to do during your visit?

See our full guide to What’s On in Amsterdam in April 2026 for concerts, exhibitions, festivals and more.

FAQ: King’s Day Amsterdam

Is King’s Day busy in Amsterdam?

Yes, it is one of the busiest days of the year with large crowds in the city centre.

What should I wear on King’s Day?

Orange clothing is traditionally worn across the Netherlands.

What time does the vrijmarkt start?

The free market officially starts at 06:00 on King’s Day.

This article was published on 24 March 2026.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

The post King’s Day in Amsterdam (Koningsdag 2026 Guide) appeared first on AmsterdamTips.com.

The works from 20 international artists are selected for the festival and displayed mainly along the entire length of the Herengracht and Nieuwe Herengracht canals.

This diverse and eclectic collection of works are all freely accessible to view and become part of the city landscape during the winter.

The event is run by Amsterdam Light Festival which is a cultural ANBI non-profit foundation. Its aim is to bring light art to enrich the public space for locals and visitors.

Running costs are €3 million per year so you can support the event by taking a canal cruise or buying the walking tour guide.

Amsterdam Light Festival – Cruises

There are numerous options for taking a cruise around the lightworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival. You can choose either a standard covered boat or an open boat with some cruises having drinks included.

You can also take a private small boat tour which is a comfortable and intimate choice for groups up to 10 people.

The cruises generally depart regularly between 16:30 and 21:30 with a duration of around 1 hour 15 minutes. There are various departure points depending on the company selected – this includes Amsterdam Central, Damrak, Amstel and Amsterdam Noord.

Not only do you pass the Amsterdam Light Festival works – but you also get to see Amsterdam’s beautiful canals by night during the atmospheric winter holiday period.

Here are canal boats passing 2 iconic works from the 14th edition in 2025-26 – Swans by UK artist Jon Voss and the dreamlike bridge fresco Metamorfaunes by French artist Luminariste.

Amsterdam Light Festival – Walking Tour

There is a 6.5km clockwise walking route which can be started at Amsterdam Central station – although you can actually start at any point. Each artwork is numbered 1-20 and has its own illuminated info block close by which tells you the name and artist.

You can support the festival by purchasing the light walk and audio guide. You need to download the official Amsterdam Light Festival app and redeem the voucher code to access the guide.

You can also buy paper maps for €7 at the info points during their opening hours (see below).

Here are some tips for going on the light festival walking tour:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Watch out for bikes and traffic when crossing onto the road
• Take care at the edge of the canals – you don’t want to do a swimming tour!
• Keep your camera/phone steady when taking photos and experiment with night mode

Along the Herengracht there is a light work at every canal block – usually on one particular side of the canal.

You can either get up close to the artwork itself or view it at a distance from the other side of the canal – which will give you a broader perspective and the lights reflecting on the water. Or do both if you want!

Another way to enjoy the lights is to take a cycle tour with a guide which lasts 90 minutes.

Amsterdam Light Festival 2026-27 Artworks

We will provide details of the works for the 2026/27 event when announced.

Here is the full listing of the 2025/26 Amsterdam Light Festival 14th edition which had the theme of Legacy – What is left behind in the aftermath of major events; what remains from customs and family traditions.

To get a flavour here is the official 2025-26 aftermovie and also a few images we took from last year:

Amsterdam Light Festival Info Points

There is an official information point located at the Blauwbrug bridge near Amstel 33 (eastern side).

Opening times and hours for the 2026/27 season will be announced.

There’s no doubt that these light works help bolster the holiday spirit during the dark winter months. We walked it in the early evening and there was a nice atmosphere along the route.

Whether you live here or are on a visit to Amsterdam, we highly recommend taking a canal cruise or a walking tour around the Amsterdam Light Festival.

This article was first published in 2025, last updated 23 January 2026.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

The post Amsterdam Light Festival Guide 2026-2027 appeared first on AmsterdamTips.com.