Forget about Santa Claus if you are going to spend your Christmas in Amsterdam. Sint Nicolaas awaits your arrival on December 5 in this beautiful city. If you are in Amsterdam this Christmas, enjoy the seasonal activities and its mellow vibes. The Christmas spirit invigorates every itch of the city that the magical experiences that you may be hearing as folklore suddenly become a reality. We have listed some of the brilliant things to do in Amsterdam during Christmas;
Witness the Amsterdam Light Festival
The dark is illuminated during the winter nights if you are around for the Amsterdam Light Festival. The light sculptures along the canals are fully decorated with lights, providing light to the boat tours. You are transported across the Amstel River, Nieuwe Herengracht, Oosterdok and Herengracht.
Try Ice skating
Photo Source: Conscioustravelguide.com
Museum Square Ice Skating is second to none during the festive period. Step away from your fear and embrace the snow hitting you softly across your face as you breathe in fresh air skating. The Jaap Eden Ijsbaan ice rink is the largest and ice rink in Amsterdam with an outside track and you can skate until the next year.
See the Winterparade
Photo Source: Dailycappuccino.nl
Imagine the combination of exotic meals, theatre and togetherness during Christmas. The Winterparade has become one of the most romantic exposures you can experience if you are in Amsterdam. If you are looking for a honeymoon gift for your partner, Winterparade is a perfect one.
Eat Dutch Delicacies
No matter how selective you are when it comes to delicacies, Dutch meals will beat your taste. You can eat Dutch hapjes (snacks), Olieballen and appelbeignets. A trial will convince you that you didn’t make a bad choice in coming to Amsterdam this Christmas.
Join the Canal Cruise
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Even if you hate water- it is not the canal cruise in this city. Boat cruises have become a frequent habit of the people here. You will love the stunning views from your tour along the canal. The Light Festival and the light artworks make more sense to you as you forget yourself with a traditional Dutch beer while cruising.
See The World’s Biggest Swan Lake Ballet
Forget those classic ballet you may have seen around the world and come over to the RAI Theater in Amsterdam , where the world’s biggest Swam Lake Ballet is held between December 23rd and 27th.
Shop in Christmas Markets
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Christmas is filled with shopping. The Christmas markets in Amsterdam are in nearby places to help you feel the holiday spirit. You can try Christmas markets like Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein, and have an affordable shopping.
Experience the Christmas Carols
Those in Nigeria can talk about the Uyo Christmas Carol but if you ever find yourself in Amsterdam, there are many churches where you can sing carols and dance along with the locals. Churches like the Sint Nicolaaskerk and Vondelkerk are some of the places where you can have a special time with God.
Watch the Christmas Circus
Photo Source: Carre.nl
The Royal Carré Theatre stages some of the world’s best Christmas Circus ever. You will watch with such rapt attention that you may not want to leave. However, book early to get a place.
Hänsel und Gretel
There is no fairy tale with Christmas and the Dutch understand this perfectly. The Dutch National Opera always perform the Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel at Amsterdam’s National Opera and Ballet.
Witness the New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Photo Source: Amsterdaily.nl
Christmas in Amsterdam is never complete with the New Year’s Eve fireworks. The whole sky is covered by great fireworks that can be best seen than explained. Did we tell you? Dancing until the early hours of the New Year is common.
In case you find yourself in the Dutch capital during the festive season, you should probably explore these places and indulge in the exciting activities they offers.