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New Year’s Dive (Nieuwjaarsduik)
January in the Netherlands means cold weather (average highs around 5°C / lows around 1°C) and plenty of winter charm, from illuminated art festivals to outdoor sports and cultural celebrations. Wrap up warm, plan ahead, and embrace local customs like tulip season kickoff and icy dips in the North Sea.
Below are 10 important events taking place across the country this January 2026.
Dates: 27 Nov 2025 – 18 Jan 2026
Location: Amsterdam canals & city center
This annual illumination event turns Amsterdam’s waterways into a glowing art show with installations from international artists. You can explore by walking, biking, or taking a canal cruise. Official Website
Why go: One of the most Instagrammable and atmospheric winter events in the Netherlands.
Date: Sat, January 17, 2026
Location: Dam Square, Amsterdam
The official start of tulip season. A massive pop-up garden of roughly 200,000 tulips fills Dam Square, and in the afternoon visitors can pick free tulips.
Why go: A uniquely Dutch experience and perfect early spring vibe.
Dates: January 29 – February 8, 2026
Location: Rotterdam (various venues)
The 55th edition of one of Europe’s most influential film festivals returns with cutting-edge cinema, premieres, and events spanning documentary, narrative, and world cinema. Official Website
Why go: A cinema nerd staple — and don’t forget to check our Best Movies in January cinema guide for related screenings.
Dates: January 22–25, 2026
Location: RAI Convention Centre, Amsterdam
International show-jumping and dressage competition with world-class riders and horses. Official Website
Why go: A major sports and lifestyle event that’s perfect for animal lovers and culture seekers.
Date: January 1, 2026
Location: Scheveningen Beach + other coastlines
A chilly Dutch tradition where brave souls take a quick dip in the North Sea on New Year’s Day.
Why go: A fun and iconic local ritual — perfect for spectators if you’re in beach towns.
Dates: January 9–24, 2026 (approx timeline from festival calendar) Location: Rotterdam Ahoy, Rotterdam
One of the Netherlands’ biggest indoor live music festivals with multiple headliners across days. Official Website
Why go: Great mix of pop, rock and big crowd energy in an indoor venue.
Date & Time: January 10, 2026 — 19:00
Location: Ziggo Dome, Amsterdam
Maestro André Rieu returns with his Johann Strauss Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of classical and waltz performances. Official Website
Why go: A massive cultural draw with romantic and emotional music.
Dates: Ongoing throughout January
Location: Museumplein (Amsterdam) & City Rinks
The iconic Museumplein Ice Rink stays open (often through early February), perfect for locals and travelers alike to skate with the Rijksmuseum as backdrop.
Why go: Classic winter fun in the heart of Amsterdam.
Dates: January 4 & January 18, 2026
Location: Westergas & Museumplein
Creative markets with design, food, live music, local artisans, and family-friendly atmospheres — free and accessible.
Why go: Great local vibe and shopping + cultural experiences in winter.
Dates: Throughout January
Location: Amsterdam canals
Evening and daytime canal cruises, from classic audio-guided tours to wine & cheese experiences, are evergreen ways to see the city in winter.
Why go: A relaxed, quintessential Amsterdam experience.
January in the Netherlands is cold: average highs ~5°C and lows ~1°C. Dress in warm layers, waterproof boots, hat + gloves, and be prepared for wind and light rain.
January in the Netherlands blends winter charm with some of the country’s most exciting cultural moments, glowing canal installations, iconic tulip traditions, world-class cinema, live music, and those classic Dutch winter rituals. It’s a month made for exploring, layering up, and diving into everything the cities have to offer.
Want to keep discovering what’s happening across the Netherlands? Find more events, cultural picks, and insider highlights on Outhere — your guide to art, culture, and entertainment.
