Amsterdam in August

Prepare to be absolutely mesmerized as SAIL Amsterdam returns, a colossal maritime spectacle that only graces the city once every five years! Witness hundreds of majestic tall ships and historic vessels from around the globe parade through the IJ Harbour, creating an unforgettable panorama. Beyond the stunning parades, enjoy fireworks, cultural exhibitions, and vibrant festivities along the waterfront, making it an experience that truly captures the spirit of Amsterdam's rich nautical heritage.

Dive into a joyous explosion of color and celebration at the world-famous Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade! Watch as elaborately decorated boats, filled with enthusiastic participants, sail through the iconic canals, championing love, diversity, and equality. This vibrant highlight of Amsterdam Pride Week is a truly unique and heartwarming spectacle, turning the city's waterways into a floating festival of freedom and acceptance.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of classical and jazz music at the Grachtenfestival, set against the picturesque backdrop of Amsterdam's canals. This unique festival showcases emerging young talent (under 35) with over 150 performances in extraordinary locations, from grand canal houses to floating stages on the water. It’s a magical way to experience the city's musical pulse in truly unforgettable settings.

Get ready to dance to the cutting-edge beats of Dekmantel Festival, one of Europe's most revered electronic music events. Spanning multiple days, this festival draws a global crowd with its meticulously curated lineup of house, techno, and experimental electronic artists across various stages. It's an unmissable experience for electronic music aficionados seeking both established legends and groundbreaking new talent in a vibrant, immersive atmosphere.

Step into a whimsical world of electronic music and art at Mysteryland, the world's longest-running dance festival. Just outside Amsterdam, this expansive event features over 250 artists across multiple stages, delivering everything from techno to hardstyle. With stunning decor, immersive installations, and a vibrant community atmosphere, Mysteryland offers an unparalleled festival experience, combining top-tier music with a magical, imaginative setting.

Delight in the whimsical and diverse world of De Parade, a unique traveling theatre festival that pitches its tents in Amsterdam's Martin Luther King Park. This charming festival offers a mix of short, intimate theatre performances, live music, dance, and cabaret in a series of colorful tents. It’s a fantastic summer outing for all ages, perfect for an evening of artistic discovery and relaxed fun under the stars.

Catch the infectious rhythms and positive vibes at the Reggae Lake Festival, set to bring a wave of sunshine to Amsterdam's Gaasperpark. As the largest reggae music festival in the Netherlands, it promises a weekend filled with soulful melodies, vibrant performances, and a laid-back atmosphere. Gather your friends and groove to the sounds of top reggae artists, enjoying good music and good times by the lake.

Experience cinema under the stars at Pluk de Nacht, Amsterdam's beloved free open-air film festival. 'Seize the night' indeed, as you settle down at Het Stenen Hoofd to enjoy a diverse selection of unreleased international films, animations, and documentaries. It's a fantastic way to spend a summer evening, discovering new cinematic gems with the city's skyline as your backdrop.

Embark on an extraordinary journey to ancient Egypt at Fabrique des Lumières' 'The Kingdom of the Pharoahs' immersive exhibition. Using cutting-edge light projections and evocative music, this experience brings the wonders of Egyptian civilization to life around you. It’s a truly breathtaking and educational experience that transports you through time, making history vividly accessible and engaging for all ages.

Delve into a thought-provoking artistic exploration at the Rijksmuseum with 'Fiona Tan: Monomania'. Internationally acclaimed artist Fiona Tan has been given unique freedom to curate an exhibition drawn from the museum's vast collection, centered around the fascinating theme of mental health. This promises a surprising and deeply personal selection of works, offering fresh perspectives on familiar masterpieces alongside her own compelling creations.

Experience the magic of ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo after dusk during their special Summer Nights. On select Friday evenings, the zoo comes alive with live music, captivating storytelling sessions, and delicious food offerings, all in a relaxed summer atmosphere. It's a wonderful opportunity to explore the animal kingdom under the stars, perfect for a romantic date night or a unique family outing.

Don't miss the chance to see global superstar Drake live in concert, joined by special guest PARTYNEXTDOOR, at Amsterdam's massive Ziggo Dome! Prepare for an electrifying night as these acclaimed artists bring their chart-topping hits and signature sounds to the stage. This is a prime opportunity to catch two of the biggest names in music deliver an unforgettable performance.