Spring might just be our favourite season in Amsterdam, with flowers in bloom everywhere you look and the promise of better weather. There’s cause to celebrate this month, always cause to party and definitely a couple of great excuses to stuff your face with delicious food, so check out our picks for the best things to do this May in Amsterdam.
1. Celebrate Liberation Day
On May 4, Amsterdammers will remember those who have died in war since the beginning of the second world war on Remembrance Day. Then, on May 5, the country takes to the streets to celebrate Liberation Day, which marks the end of German occupation in the Netherlands.
Head to Westerpark for Het Vrije Westen between 2 pm and 11 pm for live music, a silent disco and loads of food trucks selling tasty fare. It’s completely free to attend!
Amsterdam has Het Vrije Westen in the Westerpark. Here you can go on May 5 for food trucks, a silent disco, live music and much, much more. Check out the website for more information.
2. Take a canal cruise
There’s no better way to see Amsterdam than from aboard a boat on one of its many beautiful canals. There are so many different tours to choose from and you can even hire a boat to drive yourself.
Some tours offer dining experiences complete with wine and beer and you can even bring your own booze to others. There’s even a company offering the opportunity to hire an actual submarine!
3. Stuff your face at The Weekend Of Rolling Kitchens
The Weekend Of Rolling Kitchens takes place from May 17-23 at Amsterdam Westergasfabriek and it’s definitely one of the best things to do this May in Amsterdam! The food festival will fill the place with tempting aromas and a proper spring atmosphere, although, of course, there is no promise that it won’t rain.
There will be tons of different food trucks to visit, offering, amongst other things, Dutch food and beers, pizza, barbecue, and a variety of delicious Asian dishes. You can indulge between 1 pm – 11 pm and entrance is free, so just turn up and stuff your face!
4. Boom Chicago Comedy Show
Fancy a bit of comedy in English? Head to Boom Chicago at the historic Rozentheater in Jordaan for a good hearty laugh, whether it’s your first, second, or third language. It’s a great way to practice or indulge in a bit of home comfort.
The group began performing in 1993 and you can expect an hour of incredible entertainment. It’s €20 per ticket and you can buy food and drink onsite but it’s not included in the ticket price.
5. Check out the premiere of the World Press Photo Exhibition 2023
Every year, the premiere of the World Press Photo Exhibition comes to De Nieuwe Kerk and Amsterdammers have the opportunity to see this year’s contributions. It’s a truly fascinating display, including some of the world’s most important photojournalism.
This award-winning photography features photos from around the world and general admission is €15.50. Students pay just €10, so for anybody studying photography or journalism, this is a truly unmissable experience on May 13.
6. Soak up spring at a rooftop bar
As the weather begins to improve, you can soak it all in at one of Amsterdam’s gorgeous rooftop bars. These spots offer 360-degree views of the city, alongside delicious cocktails and food. Even in the rain, you can enjoy some of these bars where there are outdoor covered areas. Let’s face it, where never guaranteed a dry day!
7. Test your skills at Karting Huizen
Got the need for speed? You can book one, two, or three ten-minute heats at Karting Huizen and test your skills with your friends in a speedy go-cart.
The track is full of turns, tunnels, and flyovers so it promises to thrill if competing with your friends or family weren’t enough of an adrenaline rush. You’ll be provided with a helmet and a proper jacket to keep you safe and you have to be over the age of twelve to participate. It’s €18 for one heat.