Christmas events to get into the Christmas spirit in advance

Are you a real Christmas lover and can’t wait to get your fill of all the Christmas markets again? Then we have good news for you! Because there are many more fun Christmas events that will make you happy as a Christmas fanatic and some of them can already be visited in November!

Spirit of Winter at Soestdijk Palace

From November 14 to 17 you are also welcome to attend the warmest Winterfair of the Netherlands: the Spirit of Winter! This cozy outdoor fair is held around Soestdijk Palace. The palace itself can also be visited during the Spirit of Winter with the advantageous combination ticket. Come shop for the best Christmas gifts, home accessories, latest fashion and get pampered with culinary surprises. You can choose a day ticket, a Spirit by Winter by Night ticket and a combination ticket. Look here for the different tickets.

Country & Christmas Fair at Expo Greater Amsterdam

The Country & Christmas Fair has been a household name for years and this year this cozy fair will be held at Expo Greater Amsterdam in Vijfhuizen. You are welcome from November 21 to 24 to come and enjoy all the atmospheric, heated stands and beautiful sounding á cappella choirs. Perfect for stocking up on your Christmas presents!

Winter Efteling

A visit to the Winter Efteling is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit, especially for families with children. The fairytale theme park is transformed into a magical world in winter with thousands of twinkling lights, snowy landscapes and festive decorations. In addition to the familiar attractions, there are also special winter activities, such as ice skating and cross-country skiing. You can enjoy warm winter drinks and treats while strolling through the beautifully decorated park. The Winter Efteling breathes magic and provides unforgettable memories during the holiday season.

Christmas City Valkenburg

Valkenburg is one of the most atmospheric Christmas destinations in the Netherlands. This small Limburg town is known for its special Christmas markets in caves. The Velvet Cave and the Municipal Cave are transformed into magical Christmas worlds full of lights, decorations and Christmas stalls. There is also an enchanting Christmas parade and various Christmas shows to admire. This unique setting makes for an unforgettable Christmas experience you won’t soon find anywhere else.

WinterWelVaart in Groningen

WinterWelVaart is a special Christmas event taking place on December 13, 14 and 15 along the quays of the Hoge and Lage der A in Groningen. Historic ships line the quays and are festively decorated. Aboard these ships you will find craft market stalls and cultural activities. Also on the quays you can enjoy live music, theater performances and workshops. The atmosphere of WinterWelVaart is unique because of the combination of culture, history and Christmas cheer.

Dickens Festival

If you love nostalgic Christmas atmospheres, then the Dickens Festival in Deventer is an absolute must. Every year, on the third weekend of December, the city center is transformed into a setting from the time of Charles Dickens. Hundreds of extras in period clothing bring the 19th-century English atmosphere to life. You’ll encounter famous characters such as Scrooge, Oliver Twist and Mr. Pickwick, and you can enjoy a delicious Christmas market with artisan products.

Gouda by Candlelight

Gouda’s Gothic Town Hall is most beautiful by candlelight. So on December 13, all the artificial lights will be turned off and all (1500!) candles will be lit! And of course, the big Christmas tree will once again be on display in the Market Square! Throughout the day there will be various performances at various locations in town. Gouda by Candlelight is truly atmospheric and fun to experience!

Delft Illuminated

From January 10 through January 5, Delft is illuminated in Delft! On December 10 the kickoff begins with the traditional Lichtjesavond (Evening of Lights) on the Markt. Then the Christmas tree is lit and there is a cozy Christmas market. The following days there are various locations in the city all fun activities and performances for young and old. Delft Verlicht is concluded with the traditional Santa Run, so put on your Santa suit and run for charity!

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise

The Amsterdam Winter Paradise will be held in the Amsterdam RAI from December 19 to January 5. This is the largest and most cozy winter event in the Netherlands! There is a lot to do, see and experience during this event. There will be performances by various well-known Dutch artists, endless ice skating and other winter fun. There is also plenty to do for the little ones. The attractions and winter activities take place both indoors and outdoors.

Luminous Nights at Castle de Haar

From December 20, 2024 to January 5, 2024 you will step into a magical fairy tale every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the Luminous Nights at Kasteel de Haar. Outside, Lindert is waiting for you, the old linden tree of the castle. The tree likes to tell you beautiful stories. The evening walk will lead you over illuminated paths and past impressive projections over the castle grounds. An unforgettable experience for young and old! An evening walk is about 2.5 km long and takes about 1 hour. Perhaps not really a Christmas event, but certainly one to get into the Christmas spirit with!

Photos: www.canva.com, Gouda by Candlelight, Kerststad Valkenburg, Dickens Festival and Kasteel de Haar