
Every third Saturday in January, Amsterdam bursts into bloom with the annual National Tulip Day, a vibrant celebration marking the start of tulip season. This beloved event, which takes place on January 18th this year, invites locals and tourists alike to pick their own bouquet of colorful tulips for free, creating a taste of spring in the midst of winter. In 2025, the event takes on added significance as it coincides with Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, making it an extra-special occasion.
A Day of Blooms and Celebrations
This year, the event moves to Museumplein, where 200,000 tulips will transform the square into a spectacular picking garden. The garden opens at 1 p.m., but be sure to arrive early as this is one of the city’s most popular winter events. The average waiting time is about an hour, but the cheerful atmosphere makes the time fly. Traditional Dutch music from a dweilorkest (brass band) fills the air, with classic songs like “Tulpen uit Amsterdam” setting the mood for a joyous day.
National Tulip Day is lovingly organized by Dutch tulip growers, united under Tulpen Promotie Nederland. These growers, easily recognizable by their bright orange jackets, volunteer their time to bring the magic of tulips to life. Their dedication ensures the event’s success, sharing the beauty of tulips with thousands of visitors from around the world.
Celebrating Amsterdam’s 750th Anniversary
In 2025, National Tulip Day also serves as a prelude to the city’s 750th anniversary celebrations. The special theme underscores Amsterdam’s rich history and enduring charm. This unique event is not just about picking tulips; it’s a celebration of Amsterdam’s spirit, offering a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos amidst the vibrant blooms and take home a little piece of Dutch heritage.
The tulips you pick are grown indoors in greenhouses, as outdoor fields won’t bloom until March. This ensures that even in the depths of winter, Amsterdam can offer a glimpse of the colorful spring to come. National Tulip Day is more than just an event; it’s a promise of warmer days ahead, filled with the beauty of nature! So, just as the blooming tulips signify the start of a new year, this National Tulip Day signals a fresh slate for Amsterdam, in a way. This year we can really celebrate!
📍 Where ? Museumplein, Amsterdam
📆 When ? Saturday, January 18, 13h00