🍁 Autumn & Winter Highlights in the Netherlands
If you're planning to be in the Netherlands this autumn and early winter, you're in for a treat. From design festivals and music events to traditional Sinterklaas parades and cozy Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone. Here's a curated list of some of the top events happening between
October and December 2025.
🎃 October Highlights
🔹 Leiden Festival (Leidens Ontzet) — Early October, Leiden
Commemorating the end of the Siege of Leiden in 1574, this festival features parades, fireworks, and traditional Dutch treats like herring and white bread.
🔹 Dutch Design Week — 18–26 October, Eindhoven
The biggest design event in Northern Europe, showcasing innovation and creativity across disciplines — from architecture to tech and sustainable design.
🔹 Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) — 22–26 October, Amsterdam
A world-famous electronic music conference and festival, with DJs, parties, and panels spread across the city.
🔹 Leiden International Film Festival (LIFF) — 9–19 October, Leiden
An excellent mix of indie films and mainstream cinema, LIFF is ideal for movie lovers looking for something different.
🕯️ November Picks
🔹 GLOW Festival — Mid-November, Eindhoven
Experience the city transformed by light with stunning light installations from international artists.
🔹 Le Guess Who? Festival — 6–9 November, Utrecht
A genre-blending music festival featuring avant-garde, experimental, and world music artists.
🔹 Intocht van Sinterklaas — Mid-November, Various Cities
A beloved Dutch tradition where Sinterklaas arrives by boat, greeted by parades and celebrations in towns across the country.
❄️ December Magic
🔹 Royal Christmas Fair — 4–23 December, The Hague
Stroll through festive stalls, enjoy live performances, and sip on glühwein under twinkling lights.
🔹 Deventer Dickens Festival — 13–14 December, Deventer
Step back in time as the historic town transforms into a Victorian-era wonderland, complete with characters from Charles Dickens’ novels.
🔹 Amsterdam Winter Paradise — 14–30 December, RAI Amsterdam
A winter fair filled with ice skating, rides, food, and entertainment for all ages.
🔹 Amsterdam Light Festival — Late November to January
Art meets illumination in this stunning festival of light installations along Amsterdam's canals.
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a design lover, or just looking to enjoy the festive season, the Netherlands offers plenty of unforgettable experiences in the final months of 2025. Be sure to mark your calendars and don’t forget your coat!
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Aashir Arif