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I can be brief about it: the light festivals in the Netherlands are my favorite events in autumn and winter. They're a fantastic winter outing for the whole family anyway. Of course, they're also very cozy and fun on a date! Warm coats, gloves, and something warm to drink for the journey. What started with amsterdam light festival has now spread to many other cities and regions in the Netherlands. If you ask me, there can never be enough lights to see during the dark evenings, so a list of the most beautiful light festivals throughout the Netherlands simply had to be included in Your Little Black Book.
Follow @yourlbb on Instagram
HAPPY ALMOST WEEKEND IN AMSTERDAM
Comment 'weekend' and I'll send you all 32 tips in the new Amsterdam Weekend Guide for December 4, 5, 6 & 7 ✖️✖️✖️
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱!
I've rounded up a complete list with the coziest and most festive Christmas markets in Amsterdam you don't want to miss this year. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, food stalls, live music, unique gifts and lots of Christmas vibes all December long.
Whether you're planning a festive day with the fam or friends, or just want to soak up that holiday spirit. These are the markets in Amsterdam to put on your calendar now. 🎄✨
𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 “𝘾𝙃𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙏𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙀𝙏” 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄'𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝙔𝙇𝘽𝘽-𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨.
Send this list to your festive partner-in-crime, grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine 😉), and have fun!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #christmasinamsterdam #amsterdammarkets #christmasmarkets #amsterdamguide thingstodoinamsterdam winterinthenetherlands festiveseason christmasvibes marketlovers amsterdamtips
HOME ALONE 4 INCOMING 😅 My trip to NYC ends in a bad (Christmas) movie when the hotel gives my carry-on luggage with passport to an old lady who doesn't realize this and checks the luggage on a flight to the UK!
Now I'm stuck here in NY without a passport, and I missed my flight.
I've experienced a lot in all the years I've been traveling for Your Little Black Book, but this is a first 😅.
This chat video is purely therapeutic in nature 🤣🤣🤣. Because really: HOW?! 🫢
Note to self: it's better to carry your passport all day, instead of leaving it "safely" in the hotel, apparently... and from now on, attach suitcases with cables in the storage room. Even if you're staying in a luxurious and expensive hotel, everything is still done by humans.
Now I'm stuck in one of the world's coolest cities, but of course I just want to be home with Manuel, as planned. 😔
To be continued 🧳✈️
And thanks for all the sweet DMs ❤️❤️❤️❤️
✖️✖️✖️
Anne
𝟳𝘅 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗷𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ...�� 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄
How cool is this? There are places in the Netherlands where you can cut down your own Christmas tree! You don't hear about it very often, even though it's quite common in America (where I'm currently!).
Good to know: some of these places in the Netherlands are only open for a few days a year and you have to reserve a time slot.
💬 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 “𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗠” and I will send you the article with all the details and dates in your DM.
Have fun!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#christmasintheNetherlands #christmasouting #christmastree #christmasfarm #christmas2025 winterintheNetherlands Christmastips Christmasinspiration Netherlandsdiscover Decembertips winterweekend
And do you also have a nice garden?
I want to thank you for your patience and help. 𝟳-𝗷𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲!
This time we went to @williams.farmhouse, one of my favorite lunch spots in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. But is it also fun during the day with kids?
We ordered a 'plain' version of the Farmhouse burger 🍔: yes, really just meat + cheese 🤣… and together with the fries it was a mega success.
Happy child, happy us... and it was such a cozy, rainy afternoon. I mean, this interior makes me dream of the Cotswolds again!
Do you have a favorite 𝗸𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 in Amsterdam or the Netherlands?
Let me know in the comments, I'll collect everything for the next 𝗞𝗜𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗙!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#amsterdam #amsterdamfood #amsterdamrestaurants #amsterdamfoodie #amsterdamguide amsterdamwithkids kidsproef familyfriendly amsterdamlunch amsterdamoudzuid yourlittleblackbook kidsproofamsterdam
So happy to finally share this! @lefoodwalk is back this winter with four themed walks during the Amsterdam Light Festival, from November 27th to January 18th.
Perfect for a day out with friends, a date, colleagues, or family. From a Street Food Walk to an Oyster Walk, and from cocktails to an old-school Amsterdam drinks walk.
The Le Foodwalk team has listened to you and there is a different experience to book almost every day.
Tickets (which are even cheaper than last year 🔥) are now live! I've put a link in my bio.
I have a nice garden and a beautiful garden 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱
𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱: 4 bites + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @weareedn_amsterdam ⦁ @caferestaurantdebazel ⦁ @soulkitchen_amsterdam ⦁ @blackandblue_reguliers
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50
𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
Package: 4 x 2 oysters + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ Soulkitchen ⦁ De Bazel ⦁ @bellyofthebeastbar ⦁ @vermeerswijnkamer
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50
𝗖𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Wed-Sat
Included: 3 cocktails (also 0.0%) + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @feijoaamsterdam⦁ @lottisamsterdam ⦁ Belly of the Beast
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €35,50
𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Sun-Wed
Included: 3 Dutch drinks & 3 Dutch bar snacks + @amsterdamlightfestival app (worth €6,99)
𝗕𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @hetkarbeel ⦁ @proeflokaalvanwees ⦁ @beertemple_amsterdam
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €33,50
Who do you want to do a Foodwalk with this winter?
𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙞𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙒𝙒𝙒.𝙇𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙊𝘿𝙒𝘼𝙇𝙆.𝘾𝙊𝙈.
✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck
#lightfestival #lefoodwalk #amsterdamlightfestival #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdambynight #canalview
I have a nice garden in my garden and 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 🎅🏼
The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and I can tell you: this list will instantly get you in the holiday spirit. 🎄
📍In this new video, I've listed the most beautiful Christmas markets and winter fairs in the Netherlands, from Maastricht to The Hague.
Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine, raclette, Christmas carols, ice skating with your besties, or planning a cozy weekend getaway in December, now's the time to block your calendar.
Send the tips to your Christmas date ❤️ and comment "CHRISTMAS MARKET" to receive a link to ALL the Christmas market shortlists on Your Little Black Book.
Let the Christmas fun begin!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #kerstmarktnederland #kerstuitje #winterfair #kerst2025 #weekendtips #thingstodointhenetherlands #magischmaastricht #royalchristmasfair #kerstmarktamsterdam #winterinthenetherlands #kerstvibes #yourlbb #kerstmarkt #christmasmarket
I have a nice garden – I have a nice garden in my garden
Did you know Bangkok holds a special place in my heart? 💛 If I were ever to live anywhere other than Amsterdam, it would be there. Right now, I'm seriously homesick, and I even have a ticket option open on another screen ☺️. Fun fact: I even got married in Thailand!
Bangkok is one of those cities where you can return so many times and still discover something new every time.
In this mini-guide, I share some of my favorite neighborhood hotspots—from fun neighborhoods and coffee spots to ultimate hotels, street food, and night markets.
The list could easily have 200 tips, but this is a good start!
📍 Prepare your next trip to Thailand with our travel guide & luxury travel planner for your next trip to Thailand.
𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ Talad Noi – creative, raw & surprising
⦁ Songwat & Chinatown – street food heaven
⦁ Ekkamai – laid-back & trendy
⦁ Ari – boutiques & brunch
⦁ Bang Rak – culture meets cool
𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ Charmkrung – trendy restaurant in an old shophouse
⦁ Hong Sieng Kong – riverside coffee spot
⦁ Potong – fine dining in Chinatown
⦁ Baan Rim Naam – cocktails during sundown
⦁ Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – comfort noodles, Bangkok style
**Illegible**
⦁ Four Seasons – ultimate luxury
⦁ Mustang Blue – unique & arty
⦁ ASAI – affordable boutique
⦁ The Standard – design & rooftop pool
⦁ Anantara Riverside – riverside resort vibes
I & I
⦁ Sundown on the Chao Phraya River = magical
⦁ Cycle through the city with Co van Kessel
⦁ Big Buddha – new must-see
⦁ Eat street on Banthat Thong Road – local favorite
⦁ What Saket at golden hour – view!
(𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧) 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ Yaowarat – food, food, food
⦁ Sampheng Market – for your best finds
⦁ ChangChui – creative chaos
⦁ Asiatique – family fun night market on the river
⦁ Train Night Market – vintage & food
📌 Save this guide so you have it with you when you go to Bangkok
💌 Send it to that friend you're making Thailand plans with
Have you ever been to Bangkok?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️
The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.
I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙
This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.
Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.
📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).
Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)
Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.
Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.
From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.
Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:
MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival
DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren
NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel
FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot
Want all 31 tips?
Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek
𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.
From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.
Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️
📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams
📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam
📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam
📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar
📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles
Please let us know where you're going first.
Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots
The most beautiful Christmas displays at garden centers throughout the Netherlands are now open! 🎄
Only seven more weekends until Christmas... and this cozy and free Christmas outing is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Trust me, I've been there myself ;-).
Do you have a favorite that's not in this video? Let me know in the comments! You can also find the complete list of 30 tips via the link in my bio ✨.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#Christmasshows #Christmasshow2025 #Christmasdecoration #Christmasinspiration #gardencenter #weekendtip #thingstodo #discovertheNetherlands #winterouting #cozyoutings #Christmasholiday #Christmasfeeling #Christmasmarkets #Decembertips
best light festivals in the Netherlands for a winter night out
To help you plan fun things to do this coming winter, I've compiled a list of all the light festivals in the Netherlands for 2025/2026. Not just in the Randstad, but throughout the country! Most light festivals require advance tickets. So mark your calendars now and don't wait too long to secure your tickets to ensure a time slot. If the light festival is in the fall, don't go too early, because the darker it is, the more beautiful the light art will be.
And to make these light festivals a real winter evening out, I also always recommend a nice hotel Nearby, so you don't have to drive or take the train home late at night. Enjoy!
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28 X light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Amsterdam Light Festival Foodwalks
The Foodwalk is BACK during the Amsterdam Light Festival and can be booked until January 18, 2026! This year, you can book even more different walks with friends, your partner, colleagues, or family. From Street Food to Oysters en Cocktails Your voice has been heard and the offer is even better than last year.
And if you are in Amsterdam as a tourist? Then the new 'Amsterdam Walk'Highly recommended. Enjoy!
All WALKS include the Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99).
- Street Food Walk | Thu–Sat | 4 bites included | €43,50 | tickets >>
- Oyster Walk | Thu–Sat | 8 oysters included | €43,50 | tickets >>
- Cocktail Walk | Wed–Sat | 3 cocktails included | €35,50 | tickets >>
- Amsterdam Walk | Sun–Wed | 3 drinks + Dutch bar snacks included | €33,50 | tickets >>
New: Early Dinner or Late Night Dinner during the Amsterdam Light Festival
Would you prefer a sit-down dinner before or after your Amsterdam Light Festival stroll? Then book the two-course Early Dinner or Late Dinner menu.
Early Dinner
The Early Dinner is for anyone who prefers a sit-down dinner and then wants to explore the Amsterdam Light Festival at their leisure. You'll start the evening promptly at 5:00 PM with a delicious two-course meal (starter and main course) at one of the partner restaurants, after which you can stroll into the city to view the light artworks. The menu, including the Amsterdam Light Festival app, costs €41. More information about the menus and reservations >>
Late Night Dinner
The program Late Night Dinner It's perfect for anyone who wants a bite to eat after strolling through the Amsterdam Light Festival. End your evening at 9:00 PM with a delicious two-course meal (main course and dessert) at one of the partner restaurants. We bet you'll have plenty to talk about after seeing all those beautiful artworks! The menu, including the Amsterdam Light Festival app, costs €41. More information about the menus and reservations >>
Enschede Lights Up – Enschede
Enschede's city center transforms into an atmospheric light display this winter during Enschede Lights Up. This free light art route takes you past unique light objects and installations that give the city a magical touch. From colorful projections to surprising creations by light artists: every corner offers something new to discover. Perfect for an evening stroll that lets you experience the city in a whole new way.
When: December 11-14, 2025
Where: Enschede city center
Tickets & more info: uitinenschede.nl
Winterheul in the Apenheul
Get ready for a magical walk in the Veluwe with the kids! For the very first time, Winterheul is being held at the Apenheul Primate Park in Apeldoorn. This recurring event for all ages tells the story of the Veluwe's nature and wildlife through light, sound, and video. Each year, a different animal takes center stage during a two-kilometer walk that stimulates all the senses. The first edition of this audiovisual spectacle focuses on the beautiful kingfisher. Read all about this unique experience here >>
When: Dates will be announced later.
Where: Apenheul, Apeldoorn
Tickets & more info: winterheul.nl
© Winterheul
Festival of Light
Museumpark Orientalis transforms into a place filled with light and art. Stroll past light installations, reflective treetops, and illuminated Buddhas.
Dates: December 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Where: Park Oorientalis
More information: museumparkorientalis.nl
| NIJMEGEN HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Hotel Oranjestaete, ➋ Hotel Sleep-Inn Box 5, ➌ HOLT hotel or ➍ Hotel Credible
Archeon Light Festival
During the Christmas season, Archeon transforms into a dazzling light show. Stroll through life-size light displays from prehistory to the Middle Ages, with stories told by Archeointerpreters. Enjoy music, winter snacks, and special children's activities.
Dates: December 2025 to January 2026 – exact date to follow
Where: The Archeon
More information: archeonlichtfestival.nl
Zuiderzee light
The open air museum of the Zuiderzeemuseum This year, Zuiderzeelicht is the setting for its new edition. Stroll through atmospherically lit streets and be swept away by the story of friendship and the struggle against the storm, presented by Huub Stapel. An evening full of light and sound!
Dates: December 12, 2025 and January 4, 2026
Where: Zuiderzee Museum
More information: zuiderzeemuseum.nl
light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Astray
Dwaalspoor in Dordrecht is a light trail you can walk during the December days of Dordrecht. The historic city center is transformed into a winter paradise, complete with light art, stalls, live music, and food and drink options.
Dates: From December 12, 2025
Where: Dordrecht
More information: wonderlicht.nl
| DORDRECHT HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Villa August
Wonderlight
Wonderlicht is an evening walk in Burgemeester in 't Veldpark in Zaandam. The walk takes you through a fantasy world filled with light installations, street theater, and fire. There's also a Festival Center where you can enjoy live music, snacks and drinks, and fire pits for roasting marshmallows.
Data: Dates will be announced later.
Where: Zaandam
More information: wonderlicht.nl
amsterdam light festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival is a light festival in Amsterdam. Every year in December and January, you can visit Amsterdam for a modern and enchanting light festival with large and beautiful installations in Amsterdam's squares, on historic buildings, and even in, on, and over the Amsterdam canals. In addition to various walking routes, there is also a water route during the Amsterdam Light FestivalAdmire the light art from the water during a boat tour. Open and closed boats are available, and you can book tickets for them!
| AMSTERDAM HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Hotel V, ➋ Hotel Jakarta, ➌ The Hoxton or ➍ Pulitzer Amsterdam.
Dates: November 27, 2025 to January 18, 2026
© Amsterdam Light Festival, Facebook
light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Light festival Trajectum Lumen in Utrecht
Admire the beautiful lights in Utrecht's city center during the Trajectum Lumen light festival. This light festival runs from September to April in Utrecht's historic city center. You can enjoy guided evening walks on Saturdays, group tours where you'll discover the most beautiful light artworks, or even group packages that include a delicious dinner.
| UTRECHT HOTEL TIPS: ➊ The Nox, ➋ Mother Goose, ➌ EYE Hotel or ➍ The Anthony.
Dates: December 1, 2025 to March 30, 2026
Location: Old city center of Utrecht
More information & tickets: lichtfestivals.nl/trajectum-lumen
© Light Festival Trajectum Lumen in Utrecht, Facebook
light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Enchanted Gardens
Discover the Enchanted Gardens in the Kasteeltuinen Arcen, where the flower and plant park is transformed into a fairytale world of light and color. In this magical setting, nature, technology, and art converge in a unique way. Follow the illuminated paths and step into a dreamlike environment. A new surprise awaits around every bend: from an enchanting color palette and a sea of lights to the vibrant Acertuin and breathtaking waterfalls of light.
Dates: October 10 to November 1, 2025
Where: Castle Gardens Arcen
More information & tickets: castlegardens.nl
Alkmaar light festival
Be enchanted by the illuminated city of Alkmaar and enjoy a program packed with video and light art, (musical) theater, dance, and more. The route leads you through the historic city center, along the water, and through trendy Oudorp. Discover hidden gems, step inside warehouses, walk through an elevated tunnel, and experience Alkmaar like never before.
Dates: October 29-31, 2025
More information & tickets: alkmaarlightfestival.nl
| ALKMAAR HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Wolf Hotel Kitchen & Bar, ➋ RITCH hotel Alkmaar, ➌ Sleeping at Hofman or ➍ Luttik
Ice Sculpture Festival Zwolle
Every year, some 275.000 kilos of ice and snow are shipped to Zwolle. Here, the world's best ice artists can let loose and create magnificent sculptures and ice statues. Thousands of lights illuminate the statues and sculptures, making this an unforgettable light festival for all ages.
| ZWOLLE HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Pillows Zwolle, ➋ Jantje's sweet apartment, or ➌ Librijes Hotel.
Dates: December 13, 2025 to March 8, 2026
Location: Ice Halls Zwolle, Rieteweg 4, Zwolle.
More information & tickets: icesculptures.nl
© Ice Sculpture Festival Zwolle, Facebook
MORE LIGHT FESTIVALS THROUGHOUT THE NETHERLANDS
Delft illuminated
It's already the 28th annual Lichtjesavond (Light Night) in Delft. Discover this atmospheric walk through the illuminated city center with over fifty winter events, including music, theater, and delicious winter snacks.
Dates: December 9, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Where: Delft
More information: indelft.nl
| DELFT HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Casa Julia
The Luminous Nights
Take a fairytale walk during The Luminous Nights in De Haar CastleThe castle park transforms into a magical world of light installations and color. The route takes about an hour and a half, and there are also children's attractions and food and drink options.
Dates: December 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Where: De Haar Castle
More information: delumineuzenachten.nl
light nights in Rhenen
The China Light Festival in the Ouwehands Zoo in Rhenen It was always a concept! This year, the walking route takes you past animals in patterns characteristic of the culture of their natural habitats. Walk under a towering bear or take a selfie with a Delft Blue seal. This beautiful light festival in Rhenen is a wonderful evening out for all ages!
| HOTEL TIPS AROUND RHENEN: ➊ Fruitpark Hotel & Spa, ➋ Hotel de Wereld, ➌ Parc Broekhuizen or ➍ Boutique Hotel Beekhuizen.
Dates: October 18, 2025 to January 21, 2026 (check the website for the exact dates)
Location: Ouwehands Zoo, Grebbeweg 111, Rhenen.
More information & tickets: ouwehand.nl
light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Gouda by Candlelight – Lights in Gouda
Gouda by Candlelight is a time-honored light festival, now in its 69th year. Every year, Gouda's city center is illuminated for an evening with hundreds of thousands of lights and candles. This festive light festival officially kicks off the holidays in Gouda. The large Christmas tree in the market square and the beautiful festive lights throughout the city are switched on for the first time on that day. You'll also find various performances and exhibitions throughout the city for the whole family!
| GOUDA HOTEL TIP: Relais & Châteaux The Orphanage
Date: December 12, 2025
Location: Center Gouda
More information & tickets: goudabijkaarslicht.nl
© Gouda by Candlelight, Facebook Renate Oskam
MORE LIGHT FESTIVALS THROUGHOUT THE NETHERLANDS
I LIGHT U
Start the new year with a generous dose of light and creativity at I Light U in Utrecht. In January, the city transforms into a vast open-air museum filled with light art by local, national, and international artists. Each year, a new theme sets the tone for the installations, but the 2026 edition is yet to be announced. Admission is free and there's no set route, so keep an eye on the website for the latest updates.
Dates: January 9 to February 1, 2026
More information & tickets: ilightu.nl
| UTRECHT HOTEL TIPS: ➊ The Nox, ➋ Mother Goose, ➌ EYE Hotel or ➍ The Anthony.
Light Safari Beekse Bergen
After last year's success, the Light Safari Beekse Bergen returns. Take a journey around the world as the animals retreat for the night. Along the walking safari, you'll find various light objects that transform the safari park into a world of color and shadow. Discover more than three thousand luminous works, including life-size giraffes, lions, and elephants, along with radiant flowers, plants, and trees. | HOTEL TIP: Stay the night at the Beekse Bergen
Dates: November 27, 2025 to March 1, 2026
More information & tickets: lightsafari.beeksebergen.nl
MORE LIGHT FESTIVALS THROUGHOUT THE NETHERLANDS
Light Festival in Rotterdam: Night Walk
The Rotterdam Night Walk is a light festival where more than 2500 Dutch people participate in an atmospheric city walk. The walk takes you past Rotterdam's most important and well-known buildings and locations, where you'll be greeted by beautiful Christmas lights and cheerful Christmas music. You can choose between a 7-kilometer or 12-kilometer route, and all participants receive a pin at the finish line as a souvenir of this beautiful, atmospheric evening.
| ROTTERDAM HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Roommate Bruno, ➋ Nhow, ➌ citizenM or ➍ The James.
Date: December 27, 2025
More information & tickets: rotterdamnightwalk.nl
© Night walk Rotterdam, Facebook
Farm Lighting – Light Festival in Twente
In Twente, the small village of Markelo is beautifully illuminated during the Twente Light Festival. Along the path, the village's farmhouses are beautifully lit. During this biennial light festival, you can also admire many charming and enchanting installations along the path. You can often also enjoy complete shows and tableaus for the whole family.
| TWENTE HOTEL TIPS: ➊ spend the night in an old school in Enschede, ➋ De Uitkijk estate, ➌ Drostes Inn or ➍ The Holtweijde estate.
Dates: October 16 to October 26, 2025
More information & tickets: farmlighting.nl en Facebook
ALLUMINOUS
ALLUMINOUS; the magical light art festival in Almere. Take a two-hour walk around the Weerwater and discover various light artworks. The festival returns with ten new light artworks, a cycling route, shuttle boats, and a full program of music performances and other activities.
Dates: October 17-26, 2025
Where: Almeerse Weerwater
More information: almerecentrum.nl
Bright Light – Light Festival Den Helder
The Helder Licht Light Festival returns for its seventh edition. The streets of Den Helder and Willemsoord will once again be adorned with unique light artworks with a maritime theme, specially designed for this port city.
Dates: October 24 to November 2, 2025
Where: Den Helder
More information: denhelder.online
Twilight festival
In October, Goffertpark will once again transform into a fairytale setting during the Schemerlicht Festival. From October 9th to 19th, 2025, you can stroll through an open-air exhibition in the evenings that brings together art, science, and nature. This year's theme is Time. Scientists, artists, and composers will collaborate on impressive audiovisual installations that weave light, sound, and storytelling into an immersive experience.
Dates: October 9-19, 2025
Where: Nijmegen
More information & tickets: schemerlichtfestival.nl
| NIJMEGEN HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Hotel Oranjestaete, ➋ Hotel Sleep-Inn Box 5, ➌ HOLT hotel or ➍ Hotel Credible
The Great Shine – Light art in Rotterdam
The first light festival we definitely couldn't miss is De Grote Schijn in Rotterdam. De Grote Schijn takes place in Rotterdam's Kralingse Bos forest and promises to be a magical evening with whispering trees and enchanting sounds. This light festival in Rotterdam is a truly immersive experience and stretches along a walking route of over two kilometers! Good to know: this light festival is fun for the whole family.
| ROTTERDAM HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Roommate Bruno, ➋ Nhow, ➌ citizenM or ➍ The James.
Dates: October 16 to November 2, 2025
Location: Kralingse Bos Rotterdam
More information & tickets: degroteschijn.nl
© The Great Schijn Rotterdam, Facebook
light festivals throughout the Netherlands
Glow – Light Festival Eindhoven
Looking for a great light festival in Eindhoven? Then you definitely have to visit Glow! Glow is a free light art festival in Eindhoven where international light artists and local talent showcase their work in and on public spaces. Glow has been taking place in Eindhoven for over 15 years, and every year this light festival attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the country.
| EINDHOVEN HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Little Grand, ➋ The Student Hotel, ➌ Hotel The Match or ➍ Barracks.
Dates: November 8-15, 2025
Location: Eindhoven City Center.
More information & tickets: gloweindhoven.nl
© Glow Eindhoven, Facebook
Fjoertoer – Light Festival in Egmond aan Zee
Fjoertour is an enchanting and fairytale-like walk along the beach and through the dunes of Egmond aan Zee. More than just a light festival, Fjoertour promises a spectacle of fire, sound, and light with numerous performances and acts. You can choose from various routes ranging from 12 to 20 kilometers. From fire-breathing dragons to illuminated boats and futuristic tunnels: Fjoertour is a true spectacle!
| HOTEL TIPS AROUND EGMOND: ➊ Maris Apartments, ➋ Blooming, ➌ Luttik or ➍ Beach Hotel Zoomers.
Dates: November 28 & 29, 2025
Location: Hotel Zuiderduin, Zeeweg 52, Egmond aan Zee.
More information & tickets: fjoertoeregmond.nl
© Fjoetoer Egmond aan Zee, Facebook
Light Festival in Scheveningen – Scheveningen Light Walk
The Scheveningen Light Walk is an evening stroll through Scheveningen and Madurodam. During the walk, Scheveningen's main squares and monuments are illuminated with colorful lights. You can choose between a 5, 10, or 15 kilometer walk. Good to know: dogs are more than welcome during the Scheveningen Light Walk, as long as they are kept on a leash. This light festival in the Netherlands is known for being a true spectacle in The Hague!
| THE HAGUE HOTEL TIPS: ➊ The Collector, ➋ Stadsvilla Hotel Mosaic, ➌ Pink flamingo or ➍ Hotel Indigo.
Date: November 22, 2025
More information & tickets: scheveningenlightwalk.nl
© Scheveningen Light Walk, Facebook
Featured
At the Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem, you can experience the historical story of World War II. During the "Spotlight" light walk, you'll discover how Arnhem evacuees lived during that time. Light projections, sound effects, and illuminated paths immerse you in this captivating story. Inspired by true events, you'll experience this extraordinary time through the eyes of a former resident. The story leads you past 37 light projections depicting memories from the war.
Dates: October 10-26, 2025
Where: Open Air Museum Arnhem
More information & tickets: open-airmuseum.nl
| ARNHEM HOTEL TIPS: ➊ Boutique hotel Karel, ➋ Fashion
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