Celebrating 750 years of Amsterdam: this is what to expect
As Amsterdam gears up to celebrate its monumental 750th anniversary on 27 October 2025, the city is buzzing with anticipation, preparing a year-long festival filled with exceptional events. From grand cultural spectacles to intimate local gatherings, this anniversary promises to showcase the vibrant spirit and rich history of our beautiful city. Here’s our personal selection of must-visit events during this year-long celebration.
Opening with a bang
The festivities commence with a spectacular opening concert on October 27th at the Ziggo Dome, featuring top Dutch musicians alongside the Metropole Orchestra. This grand musical event promises to take attendees on a journey through Amsterdam’s historical soundscape, blending classical pieces with modern hits—a celebration not to be missed!
A cultural night in November
On November 2nd, Museum Night Amsterdam transforms the city’s museums into vibrant nocturnal hubs. With a single wristband, visitors gain access to over 50 museums until the early hours, enjoying not only the exhibitions but also live music, DJs, and unique surprises throughout the night.
Culinary time travelling at The Scheepvaart Museum
Join Amsterdam’s culinary elite at Het Scheepvaart Museum for a ‘culinary journey through the ages’ on November 21st. Each dish is a nod to a different era of the city’s history, crafted with authentic ingredients presented in a contemporary fine dining style—an event no food lover should miss.
Illuminating art at Amsterdam Light Festival
From November 28th to 19 January 19th, the Amsterdam Light Festival features thematic light artworks along the canals, celebrating the city’s anniversary with the theme ‘Rituals’. This edition specialises in creating mesmerising visuals that weave through the iconic waterways, enhancing the city’s winter charm.
Wonderful tulips in winter season
Kickstart the tulip season with the National Tulip Day in January. This event features a vast picking garden where thousands gather to celebrate and collect tulips, brightening the grey winter with vibrant colours.
Gesamtkunst at the Beurs
Experience a unique blend of music during a series of ‘Vriendenconcerten’, one of which is hosted at the Beurs van Berlage on January 25th. Berlage’s great-grandson and a quintet of musicians will perform a ‘Gesamtkunst’ that intertwines music, space and poetry, enriching the cultural tapestry of our venue. Other events in this series will be held in the Zuiderkerk and the Waalse Kerk.
A magical view from above
Discover Amsterdam from above on Open Tower Day on June 14th. Over 25 iconic towers open their doors for a day of history, architecture and stunning city views, providing a fresh perspective on our age-old city.
Unique road party on the city ring
Celebrate the summer solstice and Amsterdam’s 750th on June 21st, with a 15-kilometre car-free festival along the city ring A10. This once in a lifetime event will feature music, sports and arts—a gathering that surely shouldn’t be missed for any visitor next summer.
Sailing into history
On August 20th-24th, SAIL Amsterdam returns. This special edition marks not just the city’s anniversary, but also it’s own 50th birthday. Witness a spectacular fleet of tall ships and enjoy a plethora of events that capture the nautical spirit of Amsterdam.
For event planners in doubt of choosing Amsterdam as their convention destination, this season promises to be the ideal moment for your first event in our historic city. Curious about the full agenda for Amsterdam’s 750th-year celebrations? Visit the ‘Uitagenda’ on I amsterdam.