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Last updated: December 01, 2024

Ready for the festive December month in Zaandam? This guide leads you through all winter events and activities in our historic city. From the cozy city center to the characteristic Zaanse Schans, discover what Zaandam has to offer during the holidays.

The atmospheric Dam forms the central point of the festivities, with a traditional Christmas market where local traders offer their goods. From here, you can walk to the Czar Peter House, where winter tales take place, or to the modern Inverdan shopping area with its festive lighting. The nearby municipalities of Koog aan de Zaan and Zaandijk, accessible within 10 minutes by bus, complement the winter program with their own festivities along the Zaan River.

Contact information and details below.

Zaandam Holiday Light Displays

What to Expect:

Unique light artworks along Amsterdam's canals.

Description:

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual event where the city of Amsterdam is illuminated by unique light artworks during the darkest months of the year. This edition, 'Rituals', is special as it coincides with Amsterdam's 750th anniversary. The festival route runs along the canals and includes more than 20 unique artworks that can be admired from land and water.

Where: Amsterdam | More Info: Amsterdam Light Festival

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Lighting of 1500 candles in the historic Town Hall

Description:

Gouda by Candlelight is one of the oldest light festivals in the Netherlands. In the evening, 1500 candles are lit behind the windows of the historic Town Hall and thousands more behind the windows of the buildings in the city center. There are various activities, including the Winter Fair, walks, concerts, performances, and events in the Gouda Theatre, museums, churches, and on the streets.

Where: Gouda | More Info: Candle lit Gouda

Event Organizer?

Zaandam Holiday Markets and Shopping

What to Expect:

The event features costumed characters from Charles Dickens’ stories throughout the market.

Description:

This vibrant market brings the charm of Dickensian England to life, featuring traditional stalls, costumed characters, and a wide array of handmade crafts and food. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque streets adorned with festive decorations, immersing themselves in the warm atmosphere reminiscent of a classic holiday tale.

Where: Zaandam | More Info: Zaanse Dickens Market

Event Organizer?

Zaandam Other Holiday Activities

What to Expect:

Cozy ice rink with Christmas market and silent disco.

Description:

The ice rink on Museumplein in Amsterdam is the cosiest ice rink in the Netherlands. It is the ideal location for both beginners and advanced skaters to showcase their skills.

Where: Amsterdam | More Info: Ice*Amsterdam

Event Organizer?

What to Expect:

Unlimited pancake buffet with delicious toppings.

Description:

On the Pancake Boat in Amsterdam, enjoy a 75-minute boat tour on the IJ River while you can eat unlimited traditional Dutch pancakes. You see the modern side of Amsterdam with the A'DAM Tower, the EYE Film Museum, and THIS IS HOLLAND. Children can have fun in a large ball pit on board.

Where: Amsterdam | More Info: Amsterdam: River Cruise With All-You-Can-Eat Dutch Pancakes

Event Organizer?

Find Other Markets

Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!

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