Amsterdam Mamas Weekend Roundup 18 June 2026

​

Hello Reader,

​

There is just something magical about the summer air—everything feels a bit brighter, happier, and full of life! To match that sunny energy, this week’s newsletter is packed with fantastic events that celebrate the absolute best of the season. We’ve rounded up everything from secret garden walks and colourful open-air markets to a full-on neighbourhood block party where everyone is welcome. Plus, a few of our absolute favourite city staples—like our beloved local museums and the historic zoo—are hosting some incredibly special events that the family will surely enjoy. Whether you are looking to secure hot tickets for upcoming summer events or unwind with some soothing courtyard jazz for the whole family, we’ve got you covered.

​

Shall we get this party started?

​
​

​

Events Happening This Weekend

​

The Schinkel District Block Party

If you want to experience a classic, energetic Amsterdam neighbourhood vibe, the Schinkel District (near the Olympic Stadium) is kicking off the weekend with a lively open-air block party tonight, 18 June. It’s a wonderful, high-energy community gathering filled with local food trucks, drink stalls, outdoor games, and great music sets from neighbourhood DJs. It is an ideal summer evening stroll destination where parents can unwind with a cold drink and catch up with friends while the kids can safely soak up the festive, music-filled summer block atmosphere. Buy your tickets here but remember that kids can come for free.

​
​

Bite of Amsterdam at Amstelpark

If you are looking for a weekend plan that effortlessly blends high-end foodie experiences with premium entertainment for the kids, this massive culinary festival is returning to Amstelpark from Friday to Sunday. Top chefs from across the city will be serving up mouth-watering tasting dishes alongside live music and interactive culinary workshops. The beauty of hosting this at Amstelpark is that the festival sits right alongside Amsterdam’s absolute best family amenities—including the giant public playground, the petting zoo, the maze, and the iconic miniature train. There’s endless fun at every corner of Amstelpark. Don’t forget to get your tickets here.
​
​​

Museum Market at Museumplein

On Sunday afternoon, the sprawling lawns of Museumplein will transform into a vibrant open-air gallery for the monthly Museum Market, showcasing local Dutch designers, artisans, and independent makers. Families can stroll among the stalls to discover unique handmade children’s clothes, local artwork, and sustainable toys, all while enjoying live acoustic sets and international street food. It is an ideal, laid-back Sunday outing where parents can soak up some local culture and shopping while the little ones have endless space to run around on the grass, watch street performers, or see the skateboard practices right next to the playground, as the summer afternoon gets warm.

​
​

Visit exclusive gardens on Open Tuinen Dagen

Amsterdam’s canals are lined with gable houses known to be slim, high, and a little bit tilted but, altogether, beautiful. Unbeknownst to many, behind the buildings are exclusive gardens connected to homes of some notable families in Amsterdam. For 3 days only, gardens belonging to both private individuals and institutions will open their doors to the public for Open Tuinen Dagen 2026 on 19, 20, and 21 June. While kids under 12 can join for free, keep in mind that due to the delicate nature of these historical spaces, strollers and large backpacks are strictly prohibited—making it the perfect excuse to break out the baby carrier or enjoy a scenic walking adventure with older kids who love exploring secret paths. Plan your visit here.

​
​

​

Ongoing & Upcoming Events

Jazz at H’ART

An afternoon of jazz from talented musicians can be experienced at H’ART Museum this summer at the courtyard. The remaining days are as follows: 21 June, 28 June, 5 July & 12 July 2026. Each day is rendered differently from the last, with the Keti Koti edition happening on 28 June. The complete lineup of artists performing and a link to purchase tickets can be found here.

​
​

ARTIS Aquarium Grand Reopening

Following an extensive, four-year restoration project, the world-famous ARTIS Aquarium is finally throwing open its historic doors. As the oldest operating aquarium building of its kind in the world, the entirely modernized space now places a heavy emphasis on sustainability, marine conservation, and biodiversity. The Aquarium can be visited with a regular ticket for ARTIS Zoo. More information can be found here.

​
​

De Parade Theatre Festival from 27 July to 9 August

While this legendary, whimsical traveling theatre festival doesn’t roll its retro tents into Amsterdam’s Martin Luther King park until late July, securing your entry tickets and specific show passes early is highly recommended. De Parade is a spectacular, wonderland-like experience for families, famous for its colourful carousels, open-air food stalls, and a dedicated afternoon programme packed with interactive children’s theatre, secret fairytale tents, and creative workshops. Best of all, many of the visual performances and musical acts are completely “language no problem,” making it the ultimate summer highlight for international mamas and their little ones. All the information you need for dates, time, and tickets are here.

​
​

Grachtenfestival in August

While it may be a few months ahead, tickets will be sold beginning 19 June. For ten days, several concerts and pop-ups will take place throughout Amsterdam. The festival will feature young and talented musicians in the fields of classical music and jazz. How nice would it be to experience classical music outside grandiose concert halls and in more relaxed spaces? Keep your eyes peeled for the complete programme and ticket details here.

​
​

​

Parents’ Corner

Clay & Rituals Workshop

There’s just something about getting your hands dirty and creating something out of nothing. That’s what you get to experience at Studio Rava’s Clay & Rituals Workshop. On 29 June, at Treehouse NDSM, have a mindful, creative 3-hour workshop to reset the mind. More details here.

​
​

GroovaRoo Babywearing Dance

If you are a new mum or an expecting mama looking to move your body and connect with a warm, international community, this babywearing dance class is a beautiful way to spend your Friday morning. Hosted in a bright, beautiful studio space in De Pijp, the low-impact class focuses on gentle, rhythmic dancing designed to bond with your baby while keeping them safely snuggled in your favourite wrap or carrier. It is an amazing, supportive environment to shake off the week’s exhaustion, get a little bit of mindful movement in, and chat with other local mamas who are navigating the exact same early parenting stages over a post-class coffee. Tickets are available 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 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!

​

Follow us on ​​​​​​Facebook​​​​​​ and ​​​​​Instagram​​​​​​.

​

​
​