Christmas Markets in Amsterdam 2024-2025

Ice*Village at Museumplein (December 12–26, 2024)

Every year, Museumplein in Amsterdam becomes a winter destination for the holiday season. Ice Village, the Christmas market, features a variety of home goods, Christmas decorations, winter clothing, and accessories with free entrance. Ice Amsterdam offers opportunities for Christmas shopping and enjoying hot chocolate or glühwein near the Rijksmuseum. Visitors can skate on the rink, which includes a replica of the Magere Brug, and enjoy traditional food, hamburgers, sandwiches, and warm waffles.

Hours & Tickets

There is a Silent Disco on Ice every Thursday and Saturday from 7 pm to 10 pm, located on and beside the skating rink. Skating at Museumplein costs €14.50 for two hours, including skate rental. Skating hours are 10 am to 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday and 10 am to 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. Ice Village and Ice Amsterdam provide a festive atmosphere for the holidays.

Christmas Tree on Dam Square (December 7, 2024)

Many Christmas-themed locations can be found across Amsterdam. In December, a majestic Christmas tree returns to Dam Square, where it towers over the city center. The lights are switched on during an illumination ceremony, which should not be missed. The tree usually lights up the heart of the city until early January. The Red Light District and other areas also feature festive decorations. Traditionally grown in the German Ardennes, the tree stands over 20 meters tall and is adorned with four kilometers of lights, including 40,000 energy-saving LED fairy lights, making it an impressive sight outside the Amsterdam Royal Palace.

Haarlem Christmas Market (December 13–15, 2024)

One of the largest Christmas markets in the Netherlands, the Haarlem Christmas market, is a must-visit for those wanting to embrace the holiday spirit just an hour's drive from Amsterdam. Visitors can explore hundreds of market stalls throughout the city center while enjoying Christmas carols and the aromas of festive treats. This year's market will feature nearly 350 stalls across 12 locations. Schagchelstraat will be transformed into Emma's Street, recreating a 19th-century Christmas party, while Kleine Houtstraat will reflect a medieval style.

Open Hours

The market also includes an extensive entertainment program, particularly lively on Saturday and Sunday, with performances both indoors and outdoors. Families can enjoy attractions at Grand Place and find stalls with children’s items. The market runs on Friday, Dec. 13, from 10:30 am to 8 pm, Saturday, Dec. 14, from 10:30 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, Dec. 15, from 10:30 am to 7 pm.

Funky Xmas Market (December 15, 2024)

For a hip take on a traditional fair, visit the Funky Xmas Market by Sunday Markets at Westergasfabriek. This market showcases creative work from local artists, fashion designers, and makers, making it an ideal spot for unique Christmas gifts. Visitors can stroll through beautiful stands featuring sustainable fashion, home accessories, jewelry, ceramics, art, and delicacies, all while enjoying live performances and snacks from food stalls. The market also offers tastings and demonstrations, and children can enjoy an old-fashioned swing carousel, have their faces painted at Smoeliez, or participate in workshops. The market runs from 12 pm to 6 pm, and entrance is free.