Celebrating Christmas in Amsterdam, travelers will have the opportunity to admire 17th century buildings illuminated by beautiful lights (it looks rather mysterious), ride ice rinks, enjoy Christmas sweets and mulled wine …
Features of the celebration of Christmas in Amsterdam
Christmas holidays begin on December 5, when Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus) arrives in Amsterdam with presents and assistants (black Pieters) - his arrival in the city by ship to the pier is broadcast by leading TV companies (children here receive gifts on the night of December 5-6).
It is worth noting that at Christmas the Dutch bring a fir tree into the house, which they decorate with toys, and after a few days they take it out into the street. As for the holiday itself, after attending a solemn service in the church, the Dutch go to the table with the whole family: Christmas dinner is not complete without dishes of venison, rabbit and various game. Well, tourists on Christmas evening can be advised to spend time in the restaurant “Bickersaande Werf” - it will delight them with a hospitable atmosphere, fashionable music and fusion compositions of the local chef.
Entertainment and celebrations in Amsterdam
You can admire Amsterdam, shining with bright lights (it gets dark early in winter), during the Festival of Light, which runs from late November to mid-January. Not only are houses, trees, shop windows and bridges illuminated with illumination, but also in the city center you can admire installations created by contemporary artists (they also flicker with colorful lights).
Fans of outdoor activities are advised to go ice skating on the city ice rinks. For example, you can play hockey or curling by going to Museumplein. And here the instructors conduct figure skating lessons for everyone. Another good place for ice skating is the skating rink at Leidseplein. Want to take part in a disco on ice? Head to the Jaap Eden skating rink.
From mid-December to early January, you will have the chance to see circus performers perform at the Teatro Royal Carre - every year they perform here with a new program - World Christmas Circus.
Christmas markets and markets in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's Christmas markets at Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, as well as Frankendael Park, offer visitors a selection of handicrafts and typical Dutch food and drinks.
You can get some Christmas sweets and souvenirs at the Winter Market Amsterdam - be sure to try the traditional oliebol donuts (they are only sold during the holiday period until January 12th).
Pay attention to the Christmas Palace - here you can buy Christmas souvenirs, in particular, Christmas tree decorations, and Santa Claus will meet you at the entrance and remind you how many days are left until the holiday.
