You may be well versed in Hygge, but have you heard of Gezelligheid? This Dutch equivalent of the famous Scandi concept encompasses all things cosy, relaxed and fun – anything that brings on those warm, fuzzy feelings. And there’s no better time to embrace Gezelligheid than in Amsterdam in autumn.
As the weather cools, leafy trees lining the glistening canals take on stunning shades of red and gold, making it one of the most picturesque seasons to visit. Autumn also brings with it a number of things to do in Amsterdam in autumn, from Halloween celebrations to cultural festivals – making autumn the perfect occasion to plan your trip.
A spooky Halloween in Amsterdam
With ancient tales of ghosts and plenty of haunted spots to discover, Amsterdam in autumn is the perfect Halloween destination. So many spooky stories hide in its 800-year history that there are plenty of ghost tours charting its gory heritage. Learn about Amsterdam’s tortured past as you walk through the former witch execution site of Dam Square, through old eerie castles and along the haunted streets of Spooksteeg and Bloedstraat – and maybe see a ghost or two on your way.
After a ghostly tour of the city, follow up with a trip to Amsterdam Dungeon, which becomes the ‘Home of Halloween’ throughout October. As well as extending its opening hours, it ramps up the scary decorations, haunting tales and actors to provide suitable scares. To culminate your Halloween trip, attend one of the city’s vibrant parties. Many of these are organised by the Amsterdam Halloween Festival, which also throws gory makeup and costume workshops, horror movie marathons and kids’ events with trick or treating.
Museum Night in Amsterdam
On 3 November, more than 50 museums across the city will open their doors until 2am for one night only. As well as extending the hours of their usual exhibitions, a huge number of extraordinary events are hosted on Museumnacht – so many, you’ll need to plan a route to fit in as much as possible. Visit the NEMO Science Museum to get involved in the Chemistry Kitchenor. Head to the Liquid Lounge, which features fascinating psychedelic projections and learn more about yourself in the aura booth at the Van Gogh Museum. Take a data selfie at the EYE Filmmuseum, or see where you fall on the emotion map at De Waag.
After taking part in the interactive exhibitions, let loose at karaoke in the Rijksmuseum and show off your dance moves at the silent disco in the Hortus Botanicus greenhouse – or if you need some lessons first, take part in the salsa workshop at the Heesterveld Creative Community. Fancy a permanent memoir of the event? Book your slot in advance at the Outsider Art Museum for a tattoo by a talented local artist. Museum Night tickets usually sell out before the event, so organise yours soon if you would like to go.
Cultural Festivals in Amsterdam in autumn
Visiting Amsterdam in autumn means you can get involved in one of its incredible cultural festivals. The first weekend of November sees both the International Storytelling Festival and Da Bounce Urban Film Festival (DBUFF) take over the city. During the Storytelling Festival, attend performances of new, inspiring stories alongside classic legends told by brilliant performers. Many are in English and all relate back to this year’s festival theme of ‘Brotherhood’. Alternatively, the DBUFF provides a platform for urban film lovers and celebrates diversity in one of the most socially accepting cities in the world. Sit down for screenings of new releases, shorts and documentaries, or attend a workshop or panel discussion to brush up on your skills.
The biggest cultural festival this autumn is the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), which takes place between 14–25 November. One of the world’s leading documentary film festivals, the IDFA presents hundreds of unique documentaries, all of which focus on this year’s themes of ‘Me’ and ‘Space’. As well as attending a screening at Amsterdam’s cinemas (many of which are shown in English), you can also get involved with workshops, discussions and lectures across the city.
The arrival of Sinterklaas
In Amsterdam, there’s no waiting until December to get excited about the festive season. On a mid-November Sunday every year, crowds flock to the streets to celebrate the arrival of Sinterklaas – who is said to be the inspiration behind the modern-day Santa Claus. Beginning his journey in Spain, Sinterklaas dons his red robes and travels to the Netherlands via a huge parade, handing out presents and treats to children on the way.
Embrace the festivities by visiting the city’s ice skating rinks, which often open in November – the largest of which sits next to the iconic ‘I Amsterdam’ sign. Warm up after with a hot plate of Stammpot (mashed potato with meats, cheese and gravy) followed by a sweet serving of Spekulaas – alongside a hot mug of Glühwein, of course.
Ready to discover Amsterdam in autumn for yourself? Book onto one of our P&O Ferry crossings today.
