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If you're looking to ring in the bells for 2024 outside of the UK this year, there's no better choice than spending New Year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is known worldwide for being a vibrant, inclusive party city and the good vibes only rise further in the run-up to the New Year. But, if you prefer more laid-back New Year celebrations, Amsterdam also offers a huge range of more subdued activities, meaning that you can make your New Year's Eve as tranquil or as lively as you like!
In this blog, we'll outline exactly why you should consider spending New Year 2025 abroad, dive into unique Dutch New Year traditions and unveil a fantastic lineup of 10 unique ways to celebrate New Year in Amsterdam. So get ready to kick start your 2024 like never before in a truly incomparable city.
Why You Should Celebrate New Year in Amsterdam
Celebrating New Year in a foreign city like Amsterdam is an opportunity to infuse your New Year with different energy. It's a chance to embrace new traditions, create lasting memories, and step outside your comfort zone. Amsterdam, with its dazzling canals, an abundance of cultural activities (and bikes), and inclusive spirit, offers a captivating backdrop for your New Year's adventure. Plus, it's only a short flight from the UK so you can be over and back in no time at all, leaving you recharged and refreshed for 2024.
Unique Dutch Traditions for New Year
Amsterdam, like the rest of the Netherlands, has its own set of cherished traditions that add a special Dutch flavour to New Year's celebrations. Here are some unique Dutch traditions that you might encounter during your New Year in Amsterdam:
- Oliebollen Indulgence: It's impossible to escape the heavenly aroma of oliebollen, Dutch doughnuts, during the holiday season. These deep-fried, powdered sugar-dusted treats are a must-try. Locals and visitors alike eagerly queue up at oliebollen stands throughout Amsterdam, making it a sweet Dutch tradition.
- Carbide Shooting: In some rural areas of the Netherlands, particularly in the north and east, you might stumble upon a rather explosive tradition. Carbide shooting involves igniting carbide gas in milk churns, creating impressive bangs. It's a loud and lively way to bid farewell to the old year.
- Firework Frenzy: The Dutch take their New Year's fireworks seriously. While you can enjoy public displays in Amsterdam, you'll also witness countless locals setting off their own fireworks throughout the city. It creates a mesmerising, if somewhat chaotic, display that lights up the night sky.
- New Year's Dive (Nieuwjaarsduik): If you're feeling adventurous, consider participating in the New Year's Dive. Brave souls across the country, including Amsterdam, take a chilly plunge into the North Sea or other frigid waters as a refreshing way to start the year.
- Watching the "Oudejaarsconference": While not unique to Amsterdam, tuning in to the "Oudejaarsconference" is a quintessential Dutch New Year tradition. It's a televised comedy show that reviews the year's events in a humorous and satirical manner, providing plenty of laughs as the old year comes to a close.
These unique Dutch traditions infuse New Year's celebrations in Amsterdam with a distinct charm, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of this city and its people. So, be sure to sample oliebollen, join in the fireworks fun, and maybe even consider taking the plunge for a truly Dutch New Year experience! Now let's dive in to 10 unique ways to celebrate New Year in Amsterdam so that you can have an unforgettable start to 2024.
10 Unique Ways to Celebrate New Year 2025 in Amsterdam
1. Party in Dam Square
Join the lively crowds at Dam Square just off the Dam Rak for an unforgettable fireworks display that illuminates the heart of Amsterdam as the clock strikes midnight. Be prepared for busy crowds and a party atmosphere.
2. Enjoy a Dinner Cruise on the Canals
Enjoy a romantic New Year's Eve dinner on a canal cruise. Feast on delectable Dutch cuisine while gliding through Amsterdam's picturesque canals, taking in the city's shimmering lights.
3. Listen to Live Music
Amsterdam hosts a plethora of concerts and live music events on New Year's Eve. Whether you're into classical, jazz, or contemporary tunes, there's a musical celebration to suit your taste.
4. Get Tickets to the Amsterdam Light Festival
For a more serene way to spend New Year's Eve in Amsterdam, explore the Amsterdam Light Festival. You can buy tickets for canal cruises to view the stunning light installations and art pieces scattered along the city's canals and streets, or opt to go on a tour of the festival for free on foot or with your bikes.
5. Party in a Club or Bar
Dance your way into the new year at one of Amsterdam's world-renowned clubs or bars. On New Year in Amsterdam, the city's nightlife comes alive with DJs, live music, and a buzzing party atmosphere. Party at Zoku or Canvas to get an amazing view of the fireworks as you dance.
6. Laid-Back Pub Hopping
If your idea of a perfect New Year's Eve involves hopping from one charming pub to another, Amsterdam won't disappoint. The city boasts several neighbourhoods where you can enjoy a memorable pub crawl experience:
- Jordaan: Famous for its cozy and traditional Dutch bars, Jordaan is a superb choice. This picturesque Amsterdam neighbourhood offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local brews and mingling with friendly locals.
- Leidseplein: For a vibrant and energetic pub crawl, head to Leidseplein. This bustling square is home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. It's the ideal place to dance the night away and celebrate with fellow revelers.
- De Pijp: This trendy Amsterdam area is known for its lively bar scene and diverse crowd. De Pijp offers an eclectic mix of pubs, from traditional brown bars to modern craft beer spots, making it a great area for a pub crawl adventure on New Year in Amsterdam.
7. Nieuwjaarsduik (New Year's Dive)
As mentioned previously, you can embrace Dutch tradition by joining the New Year's Dive and taking a refreshing plunge into the cold waters of Amsterdam's canals or nearby lakes. It's a bracing and invigorating start to the year and one you certainly won't forget.
8. Stargazing at ARTIS Planetarium
For a truly out-of-this-world New Year's experience, head to the ARTIS Planetarium. Escape the city lights and step into a realm of stars, planets, and galaxies. The planetarium offers special New Year's stargazing events that allow you to explore the universe in a captivating and educational way.
As the clock nears midnight, join fellow stargazers under the domed ceiling to witness the celestial beauty of the night sky. Expert astronomers guide you through the constellations and share fascinating insights about the cosmos. It's a mesmerizing way to welcome the New Year, far from the crowds and noise.
9. Visit Amsterdam's Botanical Garden
If you're a nature enthusiast looking for a peaceful way to welcome the New Year, consider a visit to Amsterdam's botanic garden on New Year's day. This centuries-old botanical garden transforms into a serene oasis during the winter season. Stroll through lush greenhouses and admire exotic plant collections while enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Hortus Botanicus often hosts special New Year's events and guided tours that provide insights into the garden's history and unique flora. It's a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing you to unwind and connect with the natural world on your New Year in Amsterdam.
10. New Year's Day Brunch Cruise
There's not many places in the world where you can go on a brunch cruise, but of course, thanks to the infamous canals, in Amsterdam it's possible! Choose to spend New Year's Day on G's Brunch Boat—a unique two-hour cruise that operates every weekend, rain or shine, and claims to be the world's only brunch boat. Picture yourself sipping on a refreshing mimosa as you leisurely glide through the city's picturesque waterways. The brunch menu offers a variety of delicious options, from classic eggs benedict to breakfast burritos and delightful chicken and waffles. It's the best way to nurse any New Year hangovers!
And that's a wrap on our list of 10 unique ways to celebrate New Year in Amsterdam. We hope you've found the event for you, whether you want to let loose at a NYE party or take it easy at the botanic gardens on January 1st. Regardless, a trip to Amsterdam for New Year offers tons of fun activities regardless of your tastes.
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