The Netherlands is known for its vibrant festivals, rich cultural experiences, and unique events that attract both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, a music enthusiast, or someone who just loves a good time, 2025 is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here’s a list of the coolest events in the Netherlands that you absolutely cannot miss!
1. Fête du Champagne & Vins
📍 Rembrandtpark, Amsterdam
📅 28 May – 1 June 2025
If you love champagne and wine, then Fête du Champagne & Vins in Amsterdam is a must. Europe’s biggest champagne event returns, offering over 100 different champagnes and wines from around the world. The festival takes place over the Ascension weekend, making it the perfect way to kick off your summer celebrations. There will be live music, delicious French food, and lots of bubbles to enjoy!
🎟 Tickets: Fête du Champagne & Vins
2. Bacchus 2025
📍 Amsterdamse Bos, Amsterdam
📅 6–8 & 13–15 June 2025
Wine lovers, unite! Bacchus 2025 brings over 300 wines to Amsterdamse Bos for a celebration of everything wine-related. From sampling the finest wines to pairing them with gourmet food, this festival is a true treat for the senses. Expect plenty of live entertainment and a festive atmosphere in one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful parks.
🎟 Tickets: Bacchus 2025
3. Festival TREK
📍 Various cities across the Netherlands
📅 June 2025
Festival TREK is a travelling food and entertainment festival that visits Rotterdam, Tilburg, Nijmegen, Maastricht, Utrecht, Den Bosch, Amsterdam, and The Hague. This vibrant event brings together delicious street food, live music, and great vibes, making it the perfect way to enjoy the Dutch summer. The food trucks feature cuisines from around the world, and there’s always plenty of entertainment to keep you dancing.
🎟 More info: Festival TREK
4. St. Martinus Wine Walk
📍 Wijndomein St. Martinus, Vijlen, Limburg
📅 28–29 June 2025
Embark on a scenic journey through the rolling hills of South Limburg at the St. Martinus Wine Walk. This unique event combines breathtaking views with exquisite wines from Wijndomein St. Martinus, the oldest red vineyard in the Netherlands. Enjoy wine tastings at various scenic stops along the route, all while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. There’s even a special wine trail for runners for those who want to experience it with a bit of extra energy.
🎟 Tickets & More info: St. Martinus Wine Walk
5. Amsterdam Open Air 2025
📍 Gaasperpark, Amsterdam
📅 7–8 June 2025
Get ready for an electrifying weekend at Amsterdam Open Air. Held at Gaasperpark, this festival is all about electronic music, with performances from top DJs, live acts, and incredible vibes. With stages dedicated to various genres, from house to techno, it’s a must-visit for music lovers. There’s also food, art, and a whole lot of fun to keep you entertained.
🎟 Tickets: Amsterdam Open Air
6. SAIL Amsterdam 2025
📍 Amsterdam Harbour
📅 20–24 August 2025
SAIL Amsterdam 2025 is not just an event; it’s a spectacle! This year marks the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam, and the 10th edition of SAIL promises to be grander than ever. Over 10,000 ships will sail into Amsterdam Harbour for a 5-day celebration of maritime culture. Expect tall ships, breathtaking naval displays, live performances, and much more. It’s a unique opportunity to witness Amsterdam’s rich nautical heritage up close.
🎟 More info: SAIL Amsterdam 2025
7. Freedom Food Festival
📍 Museumplein, Amsterdam
📅 4–5 May 2025
Celebrate Liberation Day in true Dutch style at the Freedom Food Festival on Museumplein. This free festival is all about food, freedom, and community. You’ll find a variety of food trucks offering global flavours, alongside live music, dance performances, and fun activities. On 5 May, the Liberation Dance Festival will be in full swing, where you can dance to celebrate the spirit of freedom.
🎟 More info: Freedom Food Festival
8. DiscoDip Festival
📍 Land van Bosse, Amsterdamse Bos, Amsterdam
📅 23–25 May 2025
Get ready to dance, eat, and drink at DiscoDip Festival, held in the lush surroundings of Amsterdamse Bos. This exciting festival promises a mix of gourmet food, exceptional wine, and great tunes from top DJs. Whether you’re there for the delicious bites or to hit the dancefloor, it’s bound to be a fun and festive weekend in one of the city’s most beautiful parks.
🎟 Tickets & More info: DiscoDip Festival
The South African Expat 
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