The Christmas holidays 2024 are just around the corner, the most wonderful time of the year filled with festivities and coziness! It’s the perfect time for quality family moments and plenty of winter activities. From magical light festivals to fun indoor activities, there’s so much to explore. In this article, you’ll find an overview of the best things to do during the Christmas holidays with kids across the Netherlands. These tips are not just for kids but for the entire family to enjoy. Perfect for creating unforgettable memories during this festive season. Have fun!
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10 Fun Activities for Kids Across the Netherlands for Christmas break
Winterheul at Apenheul
Get ready for a magical walk on the Veluwe with the kids! For the very first time, Winterheul is being held at the Apenheul in Apeldoorn. A recurring event for young and old, where the story of the Veluwe’s nature and animals is told through light, sound, and video. Every year, a different animal is the focus during a two-kilometer walk that stimulates all the senses. During the first edition of this audiovisual spectacle, the beautiful kingfisher takes center stage. Read all about this unique experience >>
When: December 13 to January 5, 2025
Where: Apenheul, Apeldoorn
Tickets & more info: winterheul.nl
© Winterheul
Winter Efteling
During Winter Efteling, the park transforms into a magical winter wonderland where you can immerse yourself in a fairytale atmosphere. Skate on the ice rink at the Warm Winter Weide, enjoy winter treats, and marvel at the beautifully decorated park.
When: November 11, 2024, to February 2, 2025
Where: De Efteling, Kaatsheuvel
For more info, visit: efteling.com
The Amsterdam Winter Paradise
The Amsterdam Winter Paradise at RAI Amsterdam is the ultimate destination for winter fun during the Christmas holidays. From indoor and outdoor ice skating, a Ferris wheel ride, and playing in the snow garden to curling and a cozy kids’ club for arts and crafts, there’s plenty to do. You’ll also find stalls offering delicious winter snacks.
When: December 18, 2024, to January 4, 2025
Where: RAI Amsterdam
For more info, visit: hetamsterdamsewinterparadijs.nl
© THE AMSTERDAM WINTER PARADISE
More Fun Christmas Activities for Kids Across the Netherlands
Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival
The Ice Sculpture Festival is back, and it’s more magical than ever! Everything you see is made of ice or snow, from impressive sculptures to enchanting artworks. Admire the creations of artists from all over the world.
When: December 2024 to March 2025
Where: Flevo Nice, Biddinghuizen
For more info, visit: ijsbeelden.nl
Light Festivals Across the Netherlands
During the dark days of the Christmas holidays, light festivals across the Netherlands are the perfect activity for family fun. Stroll through the beautifully lit streets of Zuiderzeelicht, where Huub Stapel narrates a tale of friendship and resilience against the storm. Or discover the magic of the Light Safari in Beekse Bergen, where you embark on a global journey as the animals retreat for the night. Don’t miss the China Light Festival at Ouwehands Zoo, a classic featuring giant illuminated sculptures that transport you to another world. Curious about more light festivals? Check out our list of 27 Light Festivals in the Netherlands in 2024 >>
© Scheveningen Light Walk, Facebook
More things to do with kids during the Christmas holidays
Winter Station at the Railway Museum
This Christmas holiday, the Railway Museum transforms into a winter wonderland you don’t want to miss! Skate among the trains, take a spin on the carousel, and browse cozy stalls. Roast marshmallows over crackling gas fires for the ultimate winter experience. Note: reservations are mandatory!
When: December 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025
Where: Railway Museum, Utrecht
For more info, visit: spoorwegmuseum.nl
The Most Beautiful Nativity Scene in the Netherlands
Perhaps one of the most stunning nativity scenes in the Netherlands! Featuring over 600 nativity figures, these are genuine museum pieces from 18th-century Naples. The nativity scene is a complete miniature city full of life and detail. What makes this nativity scene even more special is the decor. Iconic Utrecht landmarks like the Dom Tower, the Winkel van Sinkel, the flower market, and the oldest house in the city can be found in this scene. And the best part? You can visit this nativity scene for free!
When: December 13, 2024, to January 12, 2025
Where: Museum Catharijneconvent, Utrecht
For more info, visit: catharijneconvent.nl
Disney On Ice in Utrecht
Be enchanted by the magic of Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends! This ice show brings your favorite Disney characters to life on the rink. From the colorful world of Encanto and the adventures of Toy Story to the icy splendor of Frozen, this show offers a perfect mix of Disney magic, music, and entertainment!
When: December 20 to December 30, 2024
Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
For more info, visit: disneyonice.com
More things to do with kids during the Christmas holidays
Winter at the Open-Air Museum Arnhem
Experience the magic of winter as it used to be at the Dutch Open-Air Museum. Skate on the covered skating rink with the atmospheric Amsterdam Westerstraat as the backdrop, stroll through the winter market on the Zaanse square, and enjoy music, a carousel, and delicious Dutch pancakes. Discover the nostalgic Winter Fair with attractions like a Grand Carousel from 1890 and a ripsaw ride from 1930.
When: December 7, 2024, to January 19, 2025
Where: Open-Air Museum, Arnhem
For more info, visit: openluchtmuseum.nl
Planning to enjoy a cozy Christmas movie marathon on a cold day? Check out our list of the best Christmas movies to watch with the family >>
Visit a Christmas Market
The best Christmas markets across the Netherlands are waiting for you! Browse atmospheric stalls, enjoy live entertainment, and warm yourself with mulled wine while the kids sip hot chocolate with whipped cream. Many Christmas markets also offer fun activities for kids, such as ice skating, crafting corners, or Big wheel rides. Curious about the best Christmas markets of 2024? Check out our extensive article here >>
© Instagram @magischmaastrichtvrijthof2022
For you: Amsterdam tips to keep top of mind
The essential tips and (restaurant) shortlists that you always want to have on hand for a dose of Amsterdam inspiration.
► Restaurant hit-list:
new restaurants |
favorite restaurants |
wine bars |
lunch &
brunch |
breakfast |
coffee |
terraces |
coming soon |
more tips >>
► TOP-5 hotels:
The Hoxton LLOYD |
Hotel Jakarta |
Pulitzer |
Volkshotel |
Sir Adam|
more tips >>
► TOP-5 museums & experiences:
Le Foodwalk |
STRAAT Museum |
Fabrique des Lumières |
MOCO |
Amaze |
more tips >>
| PS: don’t live in Amsterdam? Rent a bike here >>
► Fun city trips by train from Amsterdam:
Paris (from €35,-),
Antwerp (from €21,-),
London (from €103,- round trip),
Berlin (from €38,-) &
Düsseldorf (from €20,-)
► Weekend getaway? Discover the most beautiful hotels and
holiday homes in the Netherlands.
With love,
Danique
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