January in Amsterdam might be cold, but that just means more reasons to get cozy and explore the city. Whether you’re into winter sports, museum hopping, or simply enjoying the city’s vibrant food scene, Amsterdam has something for everyone this month. Get ready to discover the best of the city with our guide to what’s happening this month.
Hortus by Night: An Enchanted Evening at Amsterdam’s Botanical Garden
Experience the magic of nature after dark at Hortus by Night, a unique event held at Amsterdam’s stunning Hortus Botanicus. Stroll through the beautifully illuminated gardens and discover a world of nocturnal wonders, with special light installations and enchanting performances that bring the garden to life under the stars. This immersive evening invites you to see the botanical garden in a completely new light, combining nature, art, and atmosphere in an unforgettable night-time adventure.
📍 Address : Hortus Botanicus: Plantage Middenlaan 2A, 1018DD Amsterdam
📆 Dates: December 27-30 and January 2-5, 17:00-22:00
Celebrate Chinese New Year in Amsterdam: A Festive Fusion of Culture and Color
Celebrate the Chinese New Year in Amsterdam on January 29, 2025, with a vibrant mix of traditional and modern festivities. The streets of Chinatown come alive with dragon and lion dances, colorful parades, and an array of performances. The main celebrations, including the famous dragon parade, start at 12:00 PM from the Buddhist Temple on Zeedijk and wind through the heart of Chinatown. The festivities also feature delicious street food, festive markets, and fireworks, making it a must-see event for anyone visiting the city during this time.
📍 Address: Amsterdam Chinatown
📆 Dates: January 29 2025
Cozy Up with a Cheese Fondue in Amsterdam: The Best Spots for Comfort Food
When the cold weather hits, there’s nothing better than enjoying a warm, gooey cheese fondue in one of Amsterdam’s coziest spots. From intimate cafes to stylish restaurants, the city offers a variety of places where you can dip fresh bread, veggies, and more into melted cheese. Whether you’re a fondue newbie or a seasoned fan, these top spots are perfect for a delicious and comforting experience on a chilly day.
Phantasmopolis: Unveil the Ghostly Past of Amsterdam at the City Archives
Step into the haunting world of Phantasmopolis at the Amsterdam City Archives, where history and mystery collide in a captivating exhibition. On display until February 16, 2025, this immersive show by the Wanderwelle collective blends Dadaist, surrealist, and Victorian spiritual photography to reveal the hidden layers of Amsterdam’s past. Explore eerie images and forgotten stories that bring the city’s soul to life, offering a unique glimpse into its shadowy, unseen history.
📍 Address: Vijzelstraat 32, 1017 HL Amsterdam
📆 Dates: From December 13, 2024 until February 16, 2025
Art Below Zero: A Frozen Journey Through 750 Years of Amsterdam’s History
Celebrate Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary in a truly unique way at Art Below Zero. It’s a mesmerizing ice sculpture exhibition in the Central Market Hall. Featuring Europe’s largest collection of ice art, this incredible showcase brings the city’s rich history to life with stunning, life-sized sculptures. From iconic landmarks to historical figures, every piece captures a moment in time, all crafted from ice.
📍 Address: Centrale Markthallen 170, 1051 KL Amsterdam
📆 Dates: From Saturday 21 December to Sunday 2 March 2025
Warm Up with a Hot Spritz: The Perfect Winter Cocktail
This winter, give your classic Aperol Spritz a cozy twist with a hot version that’s perfect for chilly days in Amsterdam. A delicious blend of Aperol, Prosecco, and hot water, the Hot Spritz is an easy-to-make cocktail. It combines the refreshing flavors of a spritz with the warmth of a comforting drink. Whether you’re sipping it at a cozy bar or enjoying it at home! This warming cocktail is the ultimate way to stay toasty while exploring the city’s winter charm.
Experience Movie Soundtracks by Candlelight in Amsterdam: A Magical Winter Evening
Escape the cold and enjoy a unique evening of music and cinema at Amsterdam’s Candlelight: Movie Soundtracks concert. This magical event brings iconic film scores to life in intimate, candlelit settings across the city. With a talented string quartet playing your favorite soundtracks, it’s a perfect way to spend a cozy winter night surrounded by beautiful music and a warm, atmospheric glow.
Cozy Up in Amsterdam’s Warmest Cafés
When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing like finding a cozy café to warm up and relax. Amsterdam boasts an impressive array of coffee spots that offer more than just a great brew—they’re the perfect hideaways to enjoy a hot drink, read a book, or people-watch. From intimate, tucked-away corners to trendy spots with a modern vibe, these cafés provide the ideal escape for a relaxing winter day in the city.
Discover the Power of Color at the Van Gogh Museum: A Captivating Exhibition
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Vincent van Gogh at The Power of Color exhibition. It’s on display at the Van Gogh Museum until May 2025. This captivating exhibition highlights how Van Gogh used color not just to depict the world! He also used it to evoke emotion and tell powerful stories. With a stunning collection of his most iconic works, it’s a must-see for anyone eager to explore the artist’s bold and dynamic use of color in a new light.
📍 Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
📆 Dates: From January 16 to May 25, 2025
Glide into Winter Fun at the Best Ice Skating Spots
Embrace the winter chill and glide across Amsterdam’s iconic ice rinks this season. You can skate along the picturesque canals or at one of the city’s popular outdoor rinks! Ice skating in Amsterdam is always a magical winter experience. From the historic rink at Museumplein to the festive vibes of ice rinks in local neighborhoods… There’s no better way to enjoy the city’s winter charm while having fun on the ice.
Indulge in Amsterdam’s Best Mussels: A Delicious Winter Treat
When the weather gets cold in January, there’s nothing better than enjoying a hearty plate of mussels at one of Amsterdam’s favorite seafood spots. From classic preparations with white wine and herbs to rich, creamy sauces, the city’s restaurants serve up mussels that hit the spot every time!