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Hello Reader,
May is off to a bright start, and the weekends bring even more to look forward to! As Spring hits its stride, families can make the most of longer days and fresh energy with a variety of activities across the city. From creative workshops to outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged and inspired.
Events happening this weekend
Rabo Dikke Banden Races in Noorderpark
Join the Dikke Banden Races on Saturday 9 May! These accessible cycling competitions are open to children aged 2 to 12. Children can take part on their own balance bike or pedal bike, and participation is free. A 250–500 metre trail is set out so children can cycle safely. All participants will receive a T-shirt and medal from Ready2Race (Team Visma–Lease a Bike). Are you in? Find out more here.
Story Time at NIO House Amsterdam
On Saturday 9 May, visit NIO House Amsterdam for story time and crafting. We will be reading Welterusten Beertje – Goodnight Little Bear, at a cosy bilingual Dutch–English session for little ones (0–6 years), followed by a free bear mask-making activity. Find us at “Joy Camp” on Level 2. Find out more here.
Monti’s World + Mini Storytellers
On Saturday 9 May, join Monti’s World for Mini Storytellers. Children build confidence by creating their own stories, choosing the characters they connect with, and enjoying a fun session full of imagination, sharing and play. Find out more here.
Magic Circus at Amsterdam-Noord / De Banne
Discover the new Magic Circus show at Amsterdam-Noord / De Banne. From Friday 8 May through Sunday 10 May, you can enjoy BOLA at Schepenlaan/Karveelstraat next to Buiksloterkerk. A modern, surprising show featuring acrobatics, jugglers, aerial performances, comedy and many more amazing acts. The oldest and most modern big top circus in the Netherlands. Find out more here.
Ongoing & Upcoming Events
Parent and Child Yoga
Join Life in Bloom Yoga for “Mini & Me”, a parent and child yoga class centred on intentional time together—moving, breathing and connecting with your child. Activities support age-appropriate development, from playful movement for babies to gentle introductions to yoga and breathwork for toddlers, while caregivers also have space to stretch, reset and enjoy a moment of calm. Crying babies and wandering toddlers are all welcome! Find out more here.
Locations & Schedule:
Tuesdays, starting 19 May – Studio da Vasco, Amsterdam West
Mondays, starting 1 June – Anima House, Amsterdam Centre
Museum Stoomtram Hoorn–Medemblik
Step back in time at Hoorn–Medemblik Steam Tram Museum, where historic steam trams, steam trains and boats bring the Dutch countryside to life. Visitors can enjoy nostalgic journeys between Hoorn, Medemblik and Enkhuizen, with themed rides, special events and scenic routes through West Friesland—making it a unique day out filled with history, heritage and hands-on experiences. Learn more here.
Discover Cricket at Amsterdam Cricket Club – 4 Free Training Sessions for Children
Looking for a fun, inclusive and social sport in Amsterdam? ACC Cricket Club welcomes children aged 5+ to try cricket with four free training sessions—no experience needed and all equipment provided. Outdoor training begins Sunday 2 April, with matches in spring and summer, and indoor training during winter. Children aged 7+ can join league teams, while younger children (5–9) can enjoy Tip & Run sessions every Friday evening. Find out more here.
Fiep Westendorp Rijksmuseum Exhibition
From Friday 19 June to Sunday 13 September, visit an exhibition featuring beloved characters such as Jip and Janneke, Otje, Pluk van de Petteflet, and Pim and Pom. Since the 1950s, Fiep Westendorp’s illustrations have been loved by all ages—come and enjoy 150 works on display. Find out more here.
IJburg Beach Obstacle Run
On Saturday 27 June, the fourth edition of the IJburg Obstacle Run takes place on IJburg beach. Gather your friends, family or colleagues and test your endurance, teamwork and courage on this challenging course. Each participant receives an Obstacle Run shirt. Please note: a swimming diploma A is required for all participants. Find out more here.
Parents Corner
TAPT Festival Amsterdam Oost
On Friday 8 May and Saturday 9 May, TAPT Festival returns to Flevopark, bringing two days of drinks, food, music and festival fun to Amsterdam Oost. Known as one of the Netherlands’ favourite borrel festivals, visitors can enjoy speciality beers, wines, cocktails, food trucks, games and live entertainment in a lively outdoor setting. Find out more here.
Music On Festival
From Saturday 9 May to Sunday 10 May, Music On Festival lands in Amsterdam, bringing two days of high-energy house and techno to Meerpark. Founded by Marco Carola, the open-air event blends global DJ talent with rising artists, delivering a vibrant daytime festival that rolls into late-night afterparties for a full weekend of electronic music. Learn more here.
Art Classes/Workshops at st-Art
Looking to learn more about drawing and painting techniques? Get started by joining a class this weekend at st-Art. Learn more here.
InkWell Amsterdam Creative Writing Courses (Inspiration to Storytelling in 6 Weeks)
A welcoming and supportive course exploring the fundamentals of storytelling and creative writing. Develop your craft, build confidence and rediscover the joy of writing as you explore character, plot and dialogue. Perfect for beginners or those returning to writing, with a focus on inspiration and overcoming writer’s block. The next course is scheduled to begin on 26 May. Learn more here.
We endeavour to include everyone and are happy to mention events connected to all special holidays/festivities. Please email us with events/celebrations you want us to mention. AM will make the ultimate decision on what to publish.
A team of volunteers compiles this newsletter, and we would welcome some new colleagues on the team. Are you interested and do you have a few hours to spare every few weeks? Please contact Amsterdam Mamas for more information at info@amsterdam-mamas.nl. This Weekend Roundup was compiled by Shelly Lopez.
The above information is given to the best of our knowledge and ability, but please check the event links to confirm details. These are often events that the Amsterdam Mamas cannot personally recommend from experience but are provided as a starting point to help you find activities that are a good fit for your family. If you have seen any upcoming events that we should know about, please let the newsletter team know by replying to this email. Thanks, and have a good weekend!
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