Amsterdam is the place to be in July. Wondering what to do in Amsterdam this month? The complete Amsterdam summer calendar is packed with unique events, festivals, and cultural hotspots. With major highlights such as the historic kickoff of WorldPride 2026, The Weeknd’s concerts, and the Kwaku Festival, the capital is buzzing with energy. It’s the perfect time to get out and discover the very best tips for the summer.
The Weeknd – After Hours Til Dawn Tour
This July, the Johan Cruijff ArenA will transform into the ultimate R&B experience during the concerts by megastar The Weeknd. The Canadian artist will bring an impressive lineup of global hits, ranging from “Earned It” to newer tracks from his album *Dawn FM*. As a special treat, American hip-hop sensation Playboi Carti will heat up the venue with his signature, infectious flow. Keep a close eye on the official channels for the very latest ticket updates on this major Amsterdam music spectacle.
Art & Design: Gerrit Rietveld Academy Graduation Show
From July 1 through 5, the three buildings of the Gerrit Rietveld Academy will be transformed into a massive exhibition space for the 2026 Graduation Show. Over 5,800 square meters will be filled with the groundbreaking graduation projects of emerging talent in fields such as fashion, photography, film, and design.
In addition to the impressive exhibitions, you can enjoy an extensive public program full of live performances and pick up unique creations at the temporary Rietveld shop. Admission to the campus on Fred. Roeskestraat is completely free, making this the ultimate cultural hotspot to discover the artists of the future.
At the Fabrique des Lumières, the largest immersive art center in the Netherlands, you can walk among life-size dinosaurs this weekend. The latest show, Prehistoric Planet, brings prehistory to life with 360-degree projections spanning 3,200 square meters, accompanied by the original score by Hans Zimmer. Suitable for visitors ages 5 and up. Book your tickets here.
Kwaku Festival
What began in 1975 as a small-scale youth soccer tournament in the Bijlmermeer has since grown into Amsterdam’s largest and most colorful multicultural festival. Starting July 11, the Nelson Mandela Park will transform into a vibrant gathering place filled with culture, identity, and that signature, warm Kwaku atmosphere for four weekends.
The festival celebrates its Surinamese roots with a huge variety of activities, making it an absolute must-visit during the Amsterdam summer. Buy your day ticket or aweekend passonline in advance so you don’t miss a thing.
Here’s what you can expect in this July issue:
- Culinary culture: Enjoy authentic flavors from Surinamese, African, and Caribbean cuisines at the many food stands.
- Sports fans: Cheer on the teams during the traditional soccer leagues or watch the fast-paced and spectacular 3×3 basketball games.
- Friday Night Concerts: Special concert evenings starting at 5:00 p.m.
Treat yourself to a breathtaking sunset this summer in Amsterdam on a rooftop terrace with a fantastic view of the city. Feel the warmth of the evening sun and enjoy the magical atmosphere while relaxing with friends or loved ones, and create unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic skyline. Check out our favorite rooftop lounges here for the perfect summer happy hour. Cheers!
This July, take on the ultimate interactive challenge with your team at Prison Island in Amsterdam Sloterdijk. This unique experience combines the best of escape rooms and game shows with 28 exciting challenges spread across just as many themed cells.
In 90 minutes, your teamwork, physical agility, and logical thinking will be put to the test during an intense race against the clock. This tactical action game is the perfect indoor outing for groups of friends, coworkers, or families with children ages 11 and up. Book your tickets here.
Start of the WorldPride Event
For the first time in history, Amsterdam is the proud host city of WorldPride, a global spectacle themed around UNITY this year. The festival runs from July 25 through August 8 and also celebrates the 25th anniversary of same-sex marriage in the Netherlands.
Although the big concerts on Museumplein and the famous boat parade won’t take place until August, the city is already buzzing with energy in July. The varied program offers something for everyone.
Here are the top highlights in July that you absolutely can’t miss:
- July 25: Pride Walk & Pride Park
- July 29 & 30: Open Air Film Festival
- July 30: Senior Pride Concert
- July 31: Street Parties
NyegeNyege Fest Weekender Garage Noord
For the fifth time, the groundbreaking Ugandan collective Nyege Nyege returns to Garage Noord for a 30-hour marathon rave. This event brings Uganda’s raw underground electronic music and energetic music scene straight to Amsterdam’s dance floor. On Sunday, the spectacle moves to the outdoor terrace with a powerful dub sound system, delicious food, and an intense summer vibe.
Since ticket prices have been deliberately lowered this year, now is the perfect time to spend a weekend soaking up culture and dancing in Amsterdam-Noord.
In Westerpark, you’ll find the Banksy Museum: more than 160 works by the world’s most famous street artist, spread across 1,000 square meters. From life-size reconstructions of his iconic murals to impressive projections. His work is sharp, political, and often surprisingly funny. Whether you’re a fan or hearing his name for the first time, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Book your tickets here.
ARTIS Summer Evenings
On Saturdays in July, ARTIS will remain open until sunset for its atmospheric Summer Evenings. In addition to live music at the Bandstand and vegetarian food stalls, this year there will be special children’s workshops and educational activities for the youngest visitors. It’s the ultimate way to experience the historic park in the magical twilight in a relaxed and family-friendly setting.
Drag Olympics
This spectacular and hilarious sporting event for drag artists kicks off at the iconic Homomonument on Westermarkt. The absolute cream of the international drag world will compete here for Olympic gold in unique events such as the 100-meter Stiletto Sprint, Handbag Toss, and Bitch Volleyball.
Visit the website for more information or if you’d like to participate in this colorful spectacle yourself.
At the Fabrique des Lumières on the Westergasterrein this July, you’ll become part of the iconic masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh. The exhibition “From Vermeer to Van Gogh” brings these Dutch Masters to life with breathtaking 360-degree projections and an overwhelming soundscape. A unique, sensory experience suitable for both die-hard art fans and newcomers alike. Book your tickets here.
Dekmantel Festival
The iconic electronic music festival Dekmantel returns this year with a revamped program that ventures deeper into the city. In addition to the familiar Amsterdamse Bos, the festival is expanding to venues such as the Oude Kerk, Paradiso, and the Melkweg. With more than 160 acts on the massive lineup, including Ricardo Villalobos and Jeff Mills, this is the absolute highlight for fans of underground techno and house. Visit the official website for the latest ticket updates.
Milkshake Festival
The Milkshake Festival in Westerpark is the ultimate symbol of inclusivity and tolerance within Amsterdam’s party scene. This open-minded dance festival celebrates diversity in all shapes, sizes, and colors with no fewer than 11 creative stages each day.
From electronic beats, house, and disco to pop and R&B: it’s all there, combined with spectacular performances by national and international artists. A unique event centered on respect, freedom, and love.
TREK Festival
During Festival TREK, Amstelpark turns into a large and lively open-air restaurant. Admission to this traveling food truck festival is completely free. Discover dozens of mobile kitchens serving dishes ranging from sushi to Surinamese cuisine, and enjoy live music, street theater, and retro attractions. In the evening, DJs transform the park into a dance floor filled with groovy funk and soul classics.
Good to know: Admission is free; food can only be paid for by debit card.
Forget the standard glass-enclosed canal boats and opt for a unique alternative on the water this July. How about a Cookie Cruise where warm cookies are delivered to your boat from a bridge, a cruise with a hot serving of Fabel Friet, or a sunny Aperol Spritz Cruise? It’s the perfect way to experience the iconic canals without the usual clichés.
