Hello Reader,


Spring, sunshine, a cool breeze — just the perfect formula for a fun weekend out with the family. With the May vacation in full swing and Remembrance Day & Liberation Day celebrations up ahead, here is your weekly round-up of family-friendly events across the city.

Events happening this weekend

IJ-Hallen & Sunday Market

Two of Amsterdam’s best markets are happening this weekend. IJ-Hallen at NDSM (09:00–16:30) is where you’ll find hundreds of stalls on 2–3 May, perfect for treasure-hunting with the kids. Then on Sunday, Westergas (12:00–18:00) will be lined with stalls showcasing crafts, art, handmade goods, jewellery, clothes, toys, and — of course — food trucks.

More details for IJ-Hallen here. And the Sunday Market details are here.

Remembrance Day & Liberation Day (4–5 May)

On Remembrance Day (4 May), a nationwide 2-minute silence is observed at 20:00, when public transport and traffic come to a stop. It can be a meaningful moment to share with older kids.

Het Vrije Westen Festival at Westerpark

On 5 May 2026, Westerpark will be filled with 10 stages celebrating freedom for the Liberation Festival. From 14:00–23:00, come and enjoy a wide range of events including dance, live music, DJs, puppet theatre, and inspiring performances. At this annual event with plenty of activities and food trucks, young and old are welcome to celebrate freedom, no matter their background. Free to enter.

​More details and the list of performances can be found here.

Freedom Meal at Pllek

For a limited 200 spots, a 3-course meal is available for just €9.50, served from 11:30–13:00. Afterwards, the celebrations and performances continue, with a full day’s programme (15:00–21:30) that’s free for young and old.

Reservations and more details here.


Ongoing & Upcoming Events

Kiddie pools around the city are opening

​As of this weekend, the wading pools will be open! From May to September, peuterbadjes across the city will be filled with water whenever the temperature climbs above 20 degrees.

Check this map to find one near you.

Mother’s Day Concert at Concertgebouw

A concert the whole family can enjoy (recommended from age 6) will be held on 10 May at the Concertgebouw. The North Netherlands Symphony Orchestra will perform this beautiful storytelling concert.

Get your tickets here.

Tulip Season 2026 Coming to a Close

Keukenhof closes for the season on 10 May, so it’s the last chance for a tulip outing.

Parents Corner

​Comedy Night at Ceintuurbaan

​Lupe Estrada is performing tonight, 30 April at Vice Versa Amsterdam. Live comedy, English-speaking, free to attend (just need to RSVP), what’s not to like?

More details and how to get in touch with the organizers here.

We endeavour to include everyone and are happy to mention events connected to all special holidays and festivities. Please email us with events or 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 Jackie C. Liban


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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