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Hello Reader,
As June draws to a close and summer settles in, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the longer days and warmer evenings. From outdoor festivals and family-friendly performances to hands-on workshops and nature-inspired adventures, Amsterdam is bursting with opportunities to get out, explore, and connect. Whether you’re planning a day of discovery or simply looking for inspiration for the weekend ahead, we’ve gathered a selection of events and activities to help your family make the most of the season.
Events Happening This Weekend
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.
BOLO Buurtfeest – Plein Pret
Saturday 27 June, come enjoy the BOLO Buurteest – Plein Pret. This will be a fun opportunity to celebrate the summer together with neighbours, friends and family. Admission is free and everyone is welcome! Come by and enjoy a day full of fun at Bos en Lommerplein! Learn more here.
Japan Festival 2026
On Sunday 29 June, come join one of the largest celebrations of Japanese culture in the Netherlands. The Japan Festival brings together the very best of Japanese culture in one vibrant, family-friendly day out featuring traditional and contemporary performances, hands-on workshops, cultural demonstrations, and an incredible selection of Japanese food and products. Learn more here.
Wereldmuseum – Keti Koti
On Sunday 28 June, families are invited to make a kauri shell bracelet and learn more about Keti Koti through hands-on, child-friendly activities. Learn more here.
Wallen Festival
On 27-28 June, come join the fourth edition of the Wallen Festival where entrepreneurs, residents, museums, theatres and community centres warmly welcome you to the oldest neighbourhood of Amsterdam, opening their doors with a varied programme. Stroll along the picturesque canals and through narrow alleyways, enjoy live music, sample local delicacies, take part in a mini workshop, and visit one of the many remarkable historic buildings. Learn more here.
Ongoing & Upcoming Events
Ouder-Kind Yoga
On Saturday 4 July, embark on an adventure together led by yoga teacher and vitalogist Tirtsa Senf. We will move, play, and relax together. A fun and playful yoga moment for parent and child (ages 3 to 8). Find out more here.
The Best of West Summer Camp
From 6–10 July, children aged 7–12 are invited to discover their creativity at Best of the West Summercamp at Podium Mozaïek. This vibrant holiday programme offers hands-on workshops in music, dance, visual arts, language, and acting, giving young participants the chance to explore new talents, build confidence, and express themselves through the arts. Led by experienced artists and educators, the week culminates in opportunities to share and celebrate what they’ve created in a fun, supportive environment. Perfect for curious, creative children looking for an inspiring start to the summer holidays. Learn more here.
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.
Fiep Westendorp Rijksmuseum Exhibition
From Friday 19 June to Sunday 13 September, visit the exhibition featuring beloved characters: 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.
Parents’ Corner
Holland Festival
The Holland Festival returns across Amsterdam through the end of June, showcasing world-class theatre, dance, music, and performance art from leading international creators. Taking place in venues across the city, it offers a rich programme of thought-provoking and often experimental work, perfect for a culture-filled evening out or a unique date night experience during the summer season. Learn more here.
Nocturne Nights x Boogieland presents RAGING BULL
Friday 26 June, come join an immersive film screening with live boxing, live swing music and swing dancing. The night begins with Sam Ghezzi & The Roaring Cats, a live eight-piece swing band accompanied by swing dancers. Then, watch a live boxing match by boxers from Boogieland followed by a screening of Raging Bull. Learn more here.
Javaplein Vintage Market
Saturday 27 June, head to Javaplein in Amsterdam Oost for a day of vintage shopping, sustainable fashion, and local creativity. Browse a curated selection of second-hand clothing, accessories, homeware, and unique treasures from independent vendors while enjoying the lively atmosphere of one of the city’s favourite neighbourhood markets. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind find or simply looking to soak up the community spirit, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer Saturday. Learn more here.
st Art – Amsterdam Houses Watercolour Workshop
On Sunday 28 June, discover the charm of painting Amsterdam’s iconic canal houses in this hands-on watercolour workshop. Step by step, you’ll create your own playful still life artwork inspired by the unique shapes, colours, and character of these charming buildings. Whether for your home or as a meaningful gift, bring a touch of Amsterdam to life with your own watercolour creation! Find out more here.
IJ Hallen Amsterdam – Flea Market
Europe’s largest and most unique flea market will also take place 27-28 June. Its massive scale ensures a diverse balance of supply and demand, offering shoppers a high chance of finding bargains on items like clothing and home furnishings. Learn more here.
Vice Versa
From laughter-filled comedy nights to creative writing sessions, gaming events, and community meetups, Vice Versa is the place to be this June for adults looking to connect, unwind, and try something new. With a diverse programme of social and cultural events each week, it’s the perfect opportunity to step away from the daily routine and enjoy Amsterdam’s thriving creative community. 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. 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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