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Things to Do in Amsterdam in
January 2025

Planning to visit Amsterdam in January 2025? It's a great way to begin the year in Amsterdam with its large New Year parties, multiple cultural events, ice skating and winter markets! On this page you will find the top things to do in Amsterdam in January 2025!


Contents: Top 3 Amsterdam Tours :: Amsterdam Light Festival 2024-2025:: Ice Skating in Amsterdam :: Fabrique Des Lumieres Current Exhibitions :: National Tulip Day 2025 in Amsterdam :: Best Amsterdam Concerts in January 2025 :: 


Amsterdam in January

Many tourists avoid visiting Amsterdam in winter due to its damp and cold weather, however, others prefer January because it is not the high season in Amsterdam, and it's not so crowded.

Weather in January is usually chilly, rainy and can be quite cold with nearly freezing temperatures, so dress accordingly. The average temperature in Amsterdam in January is around 3 degrees Celsius (38 Fahrenheit). It's the coldest month of the year in Amsterdam! So if you are planning to visit Amsterdam in January 2025, try to dress in layers and keep yourself warm! Let's go!


top three AMSTERDAM TOURS IN january 2025

Amsterdam is one of the best places in Europe to start your new year! If you are looking for winter activities and events, Amsterdam is an extremely beautiful European city full of life, also in January. Even after the December holidays are over, and Christmas markets are wrapping up, there are so many interesting things to do in Amsterdam in January 2025! One of the biggest and the most interesting winter events of the year is Amsterdam Light Festival with its unique light artwork, located in and around Amsterdam canals. You can read about Amsterdam Light Festival below on this page, or in a separate article. 

Celebrated on the night of December 31st, New Year's Eve is a big holiday for the Dutch people. Most people on Amsterdam are celebrating New Year with big parties in their homes, restaurants or clubs, and the fun goes on for the whole night. When you visit Amsterdam on the New Year's Eve, you will definitely see a lot of people celebration on the streets and terraces. There will be lights and music all night in the center of Amsterdam on the city plazas. There will also be plenty of fireworks at night, so don't be surprised if you hear those loud sounds! So if you like to party and to start your new year with a grand celebration, come to Amsterdam!

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TOP EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS IN AMSTERDAM in january 2025

Amsterdam Light Festival 2024-2025

Amsterdam Light Festival 2025

The Amsterdam Light Festival 2024-2025 runs from November 28, 2024, to January 19, 2025. This is the 13th edition of the festival, themed “World of Rituals”. The canals and streets of Amsterdam are beautifully illuminated with light sculptures and installations. You can explore the festival on foot, covering over 6 km, or take a boat tour to see all the illuminated buildings and bridges. Some boats are even specially decorated to join the Light Festival!

The lights are on every day from 5 PM to 11 PM. The installations include 20 festive and bright artworks by various international artists. It's an unforgettable experience during your visit to Amsterdam!

Read more about Amsterdam Light Festival


ice skating in amsterdam

Ice skating in AmsterdamImage by @ewout.pahud

Love active sports or just want to warm up in those long January days? You can enjoy winter ice skating at one of the Amsterdam ice skating rinks in 2025! Here you can rent skates, get hot chocolate and eat the famous Dutch traditional "Oliebollen" - fried dough with apples and raisins with sugar. 

Rembrandtplein Ice Rink is a part of the Winter Festival Amsterdam and will be available from November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025. The rink is open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM, and it has some food kiosks around so you don't get hungry. 

Jaap Eden Ice Rink is a huge round outdoor ice rink that is going one direction, so skaters don't collide! It's located at Radioweg 64 in Amsterdam, and open October to March 2025. It's also a great option for those bad weather days because it has an indoor rink, as well as a beginners corner.

ICE*Amsterdam is a smaller yet cozy (also meaning crowded) ice rink at the Museumplein, and it's open mid November to February 2, 2025. Probably the best place to skate and to visit all the museums around it!


Fabrique des Lumières current exhibitions

Dali Gaudi Expo in Amsterdam

Fabrique De Lumieres is the largest digital art center in the Netherlands, featuring impressive exhibitions by world famous artists, such as Gustav Klimt. The artworks are projected to walls that are up to 16 meters high, and provide a unique immersive experience that can't be compared to a regular visit to a museum.

There are four current expos:

Destination Cosmos - The Immersive Space Experience takes you on an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos, from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral to the far reaches of the universe. Featuring stunning NASA imagery, you'll explore Martian canyons, dive into Jupiter's heart, glide across Saturn's rings, and experience the immensity of our universe.

From Vermeer to Van Gogh - Dutch Masters  transports you back to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age, showcasing over 325 artworks by masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt. Experience daily life scenes, biblical themes, and enchanting winter landscapes, all brought to life with modern technology.

#MYGIRLWITHAPEARL - The Immersive Edition  reimagines Vermeer's iconic "Girl with a Pearl Earring" through modern interpretations. Featuring state-of-the-art projections and a specially designed soundtrack, this 7-minute audiovisual experience highlights the timeless beauty of this masterpiece.

Mondriaan - An Abundance of Colour  dives into the vibrant world of Piet Mondriaan, where bold colors and geometric forms come to life. This immersive exhibition celebrates Mondriaan's unique style and his contribution to abstract art, offering visitors a chance to experience his iconic works in a new and engaging way.

Check out more things to do at Fabrique Des Lumieres!


national tulip day 2025 in amsterdam 

Tulip Day in AmsterdamImage by tuku from Pixabay

Despite it's still winter, flower season is fast approaching! Every third Saturday of January, Tulip Day is celebrated in Amsterdam with giving away free tulips to everyone who want to get some fresh flowers!

This year it's on Saturday, January 18th, 2025 - mark the date! Location: Museumplein (of course you know where that is). And the theme of this year is "Let's Dance!".

This is the official beginning of tulip season, organized by Tulip Promotion Netherlands. After this day, tulips are going on sale everywhere in Netherlands - but on the National Tulip Day you can get them from the loving hands of Dutch farmers, right here at the Museumplein. There will be music, tulip party, friendly volunteers, and of course - beautiful flowers! 

See the date countdown and event rules following this link to the official website


TOP CONCERTS IN AMSTERDAM IN january 2025

Amsterdam Concerts in January

January 15 - Hellmut Lotti Goes Metal

Hellmut Lotti, a versatile singer known for his genre-blending performances, presents his unique take on metal at Grote Zaal, Paradiso - Complex. Join him for a night of captivating melodies!

January 25 - John Summit

John Summit, a rising star in the electronic music scene, will be spinning his latest hits and dance tracks at Grote Zaal, Paradiso - Complex. Don’t miss his late-night set!

January 27 - James Bay

James Bay, the acclaimed British singer-songwriter, takes the stage at Grote Zaal, Paradiso - Complex. His emotive voice and powerful lyrics are sure to resonate with the audience. See you there!

January 28 - Pantera Pantera

Pantera Pantera, the legendary heavy metal band, delivers a high-energy concert at AFAS Live. Fans can expect a powerful and unforgettable performance. Let's rock that stage!

January 29 - Barbara Pravi

Barbara Pravi, the French singer-songwriter known for her emotive ballads, performs at Grote Zaal, Tivoli Vredenburg - Complex. Her captivating voice and lyrical storytelling will enchant you.

January 29 - October London

October London, an R&B artist with a smooth and soulful sound, brings his exceptional talents to Tolhuistuin - Club. Known for his rich vocals and emotive performances, he captivates audiences with his unique blend of modern and classic R&B. His live shows are intimate and heartfelt, creating a deep connection with his listeners. Enjoy an evening of music that resonates with warmth and soul.

January 30 - Jan Blomqvist

Jan Blomqvist, a renowned electronic musician and live performer, graces the stage at Melkweg OZ at Melkweg - Complex. Known for his captivating live shows, Blomqvist blends melodic techno with live vocals to create a truly immersive experience. His performances are a journey through sound, combining electronic beats with emotional depth. Prepare to be entranced by his unique fusion of rhythm and melody.

January 31 - Maribou State

Maribou State, the British electronic music duo, performs at Melkweg Max at Melkweg - Complex. Their atmospheric and soulful soundscapes will take you on a sonic journey. They are popular for their unique ability to blend live instrumentation with electronic elements, creating a rich and immersive sound. Their critically acclaimed albums and captivating live performances have garnered them a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

January 31 - Sara Landry

Sara Landry, a rising star in the techno scene, closes the month with an electrifying set at AFAS Live. Her dark and driving beats promise a night of intense energy - BUY TICKETS

Check out our full Amsterdam Concert Schedule following this link!


Check out other website pages to read useful tips about public transport in Amsterdam and things to know for your first visit. Also, see other attractions such as Red Light District area and best day trips from Amsterdam. But most of all, enjoy your stay!

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Image credits:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival 2025 Image by @maikeljay
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