Dutch festivals near Amsterdam you need to experience

When you think of Amsterdam, you might imagine its iconic canals, museums, or maybe its laid-back coffee shops. But the areas around the city also boast some of the most exciting festivals in the Netherlands. Whether you're into celebrating Dutch culture, losing yourself in music, or taking part in seasonal traditions, these festivals should be on your must-see list.

King’s Day (Koningsdag)

King’s Day is a national celebration that transforms the entire country, and Amsterdam is the epicenter of the party. Every April 27th, people flood the streets and canals dressed in orange to celebrate the King’s birthday. The city and surrounding areas come alive with street markets, concerts, and boat parties.

Highlights:

• Massive street markets where locals sell secondhand goods

• Canal boat parades filled with music and dancing

• Open-air concerts and events across the city and suburbs

• An overwhelming amount of orange — in clothes, flags, and decorations

If you're staying near Amsterdam, the party atmosphere isn’t limited to the city center. Towns nearby like Haarlem and Amstelveen also have their own King’s Day celebrations, offering a more relaxed but equally festive experience.

Mysteryland

Held just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, in the town of Haarlemmermeer, Mysteryland is the longest-running electronic music festival in the Netherlands. Taking place every August, it draws tens of thousands of electronic music lovers from all over the world. The festival features multiple stages, world-class DJs, and stunning visual productions.

The festival’s sprawling grounds are decorated with art installations, and each stage has its own unique design, adding to the overall magic of the event. Whether you’re into house, techno, or EDM, Mysteryland offers something for every electronic music fan.

Why it’s special:

• Headline performances by top international DJs

• Art installations and immersive stage designs

• A focus on sustainability and eco-friendly festival practices

• A camping experience for those wanting the full festival vibe

Pride Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its open-mindedness, and Pride Amsterdam is a colorful testament to that. Held annually in early August, this festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with events throughout the city, culminating in the famous Canal Parade. The parade features boats decked out with rainbow flags, dancers, and performers cruising through the city’s iconic canals.

Beyond the parade, Pride Amsterdam offers a range of events like street parties, art exhibitions, and discussions on LGBTQ+ rights. Towns near Amsterdam, such as Zaandam and Diemen, also host their own Pride-related events during the festival.

What to expect:

• The iconic Canal Parade, with boats representing various organizations

• Street parties and live performances around the city and nearby areas

• A festive, inclusive atmosphere celebrating diversity and equality

• Events focused on education and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues

Haarlem Jazz & More

Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a charming city that hosts the Haarlem Jazz & More festival every August. This free, multi-day event fills the city center with live jazz performances, attracting both local and international musicians. Stages are set up throughout Haarlem, creating a relaxed atmosphere where music lovers can enjoy jazz while exploring the historic town.

In addition to jazz, the festival has expanded to include pop, funk, and soul performances, making it a diverse and exciting event. If you’re staying in Amsterdam, a trip to Haarlem during this festival is a great way to experience the local music scene in a more intimate setting.

Festival highlights:

• Free live performances by top jazz artists

• A laid-back vibe in Haarlem’s historic city center

• Great food stalls and local restaurants complementing the event

• A mix of jazz, pop, funk, and soul music

Kwaku Summer Festival

Kwaku Summer Festival, held in Amsterdam’s southeastern district of Bijlmer, is a multicultural festival that takes place over several weekends during July and August. Originally a celebration for the Surinamese community, Kwaku has grown into one of the city’s largest summer festivals, attracting people from all backgrounds.

The festival features live music, dance performances, and football tournaments, but the real highlight is the food. Stalls serve up traditional dishes from Suriname, the Caribbean, and other international cuisines, making it a food lover’s paradise.

Reasons to visit:

• A multicultural celebration with roots in Surinamese culture

• Amazing food from around the world, with a focus on Caribbean flavors

• Live music, from reggae to Afrobeat and Latin

• A family-friendly vibe with activities for all ages

Conclusion

From the vibrant streets of Amsterdam during King’s Day to the electrifying beats at Mysteryland, the festivals near Amsterdam offer an unforgettable glimpse into Dutch culture and entertainment. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or immerse yourself in local traditions, these events are sure to make your visit to the Netherlands extra special.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam for festivals?

The best time to visit Amsterdam for festivals is between April and September. Major events like King’s Day, Pride Amsterdam, and Mysteryland take place during these months, offering a range of cultural and music festivals.

How do I get to Mysteryland from Amsterdam?

Mysteryland is located in Haarlemmermeer, about 20 minutes from Amsterdam. You can take a shuttle bus from Amsterdam Central Station or drive to the festival grounds. There’s also a dedicated campsite for those who want to stay overnight.

Is King’s Day celebrated outside of Amsterdam?

Yes, King’s Day is celebrated across the entire Netherlands. While Amsterdam is the most popular location, other nearby towns like Haarlem, Utrecht, and Amstelveen also host their own festivities.

What kind of music can I expect at Haarlem Jazz & More?

Haarlem Jazz & More features a mix of jazz, pop, funk, and soul performances. It attracts both local and international artists, offering a diverse music lineup in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Pride Amsterdam family-friendly?

Yes, Pride Amsterdam is family-friendly, and many events are suitable for all ages. The Canal Parade is particularly popular with families, and there are various educational events and workshops aimed at raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.