The South African Expat

Amsterdam in May just feels different 🌿 Longer days, busy parks and something happening around every corner.

Whether you’re new to the city or just looking for an excuse to get outside, this is the time to make the most of it. From celebrating Liberation Day to spending entire afternoons eating your way through food festivals or browsing weekend markets, it is all about being out and about.

Spend a day at Het Weekend van de Rollende Keukens, visit Vondelpark, or wander through IJ-Hallen. It is one of those months where plans are optional and you can just see where the day takes you.✨

More events here: https://thesouthafricanexpat.com/2026/05/04/your-ultimate-guide-to-amsterdam-in-may-2026/

Carnival (Carnaval) is one of the most unique traditions in the Netherlands and it is mainly celebrated in the south.

Every February, cities in Limburg and North Brabant fill with parades, music, costumes and street parties and some even temporarily change their names, like Eindhoven becoming Lampegat and Den Bosch turning into Oeteldonk.

From the musical traditions of Maastricht’s Vastelaovend to the lively streets of Eindhoven and the highly traditional celebrations in Den Bosch, Carnival offers something for everyone.

If you are new to the Netherlands or experiencing Carnival for the first time, this is the perfect moment to dress up, join the parades and experience a side of Dutch culture you will not see at any other time of year.

Carnival (Carnaval) in the Netherlands: What You Need to Know Carnival (Carnaval) is one of the most unique traditions in the Netherlands and it is mainly celebrated in the south. Every February, cities in Limburg and North Brabant fill with parades, music, c…

Looking for seasonal magic this year? Europe’s Christmas markets in 2025 are ready to enchant! 🎄 From underground caves in Valkenburg to candle‑lit city squares in Gouda, and fairy‑tale scenes in Tallinn, there’s a festive experience to delight South African expats and travellers alike.

Read our full guide →

Let the twinkling lights, mulled wine and winter wonderland atmosphere inspire your next getaway!

The Best Christmas Markets in the Netherlands and Beyond – 2025 Dreaming of a winter wonderland this festive season? Europe’s Christmas markets in 2025 are the perfect escape for South African expats. From the underground caves of Valkenburg to the fairy-tale s…

COMING THIS AUGUST ⚓⛵

Over 10,000 ships. 2.3 million visitors. 5 unforgettable days.

SAIL Amsterdam 2025 is the world’s biggest nautical celebration — and it’s back this August! From parades and concerts to boat tours and historic ships, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.

📖 Read our full guide now!

The Ultimate Guide to SAIL Amsterdam 2025 SAIL Amsterdam 2025 is set to be an incredible celebration of maritime history and culture. From 20 to 24 August, over 10,000 ships and more than 2.3 million visitors will gather for five days of p…

A party on the highway? On 21 June, Amsterdam’s A10 ring road closes for a unique 15-kilometre festival celebrating the city’s 750th birthday. Expect music, dance, theatre and more.

June is packed with exciting events:

-Bacchus Wine Festival

-Amsterdam Open Air + Lente Kabinet

-BITE of Amsterdam

-Open Garden Days

-Yet Zuidas Run…and many more.

Read the full guide and find ticket information here:

Discover Amsterdam in June 2025: A South African Expat’s Guide to the Best Events June 2025 is bursting with events in Amsterdam, from the Festival Op de Ring celebrating the city’s 750th birthday with a 15-kilometre car-free motorway festival, to wine tastings, food festivals, …

🌸 April in Amsterdam is bursting with festivals, markets & fun! Sip on South African wine, celebrate King’s Day 🧡, shop at the Pure Markt and more!

Don’t miss a moment—check out the full lineup and start planning!

April in Amsterdam: Festivals, Markets and Fun April in Amsterdam is packed with exciting events, from lively festivals and bustling markets to cultural experiences and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a South African expat craving a t…

St. Patrick’s Day is almost here! Ready to celebrate with great Guinness, live Irish music & the best craic in the Netherlands? ☘️

Whether you're in Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam or beyond, we’ve got the top Irish pubs for you! Check out our guide & let the festivities begin!

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the Netherlands: The Best Irish Pubs in Amsterdam and Beyond Discover the best Irish pubs in the Netherlands for a great St. Patrick’s Day celebration! From Amsterdam to Utrecht, enjoy live music, Guinness, traditional Irish food and the best craic in town.…

It’s that time of the year again! Spring means fish migration season in the Netherlands, and you can help fish on their journey with the famous fish doorbell! Watch a live underwater feed and ring the virtual doorbell when you spot fish waiting at the locks. 🚪🐠

Join in from anywhere! Find out more:

The Netherlands’ Famous Fish Doorbell – Have You Heard of It? It’s that time of the year again! Spring marks fish migration season in the Netherlands, and you can take part in this unique Dutch tradition from anywhere.

Summer is calling! Whether you’re into sipping champagne, exploring wine trails, eating street food or dancing, 2025 has it ALL.

From Fête du Champagne to SAIL Amsterdam, these are the events you don’t want to miss!

Cool Events in the Netherlands You Don’t Want to Miss in 2025 Get ready for the ultimate festival experience in the Netherlands this year! From bubbly champagne celebrations to delicious wine walks, sizzling street food, and vibrant music festivals, 2025 is p…

Can we just skip to February already? 😍

Amsterdam is about to turn up the heat this February with a month full of events! From romantic Valentine’s Day celebrations to unique experiences, there's something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying live music at the Royal Concertgebouw, indulging in a cozy dinner on Pampus Island, or exploring the stunning Royal Palace, Amsterdam is the place to be!

Head Over Heels for Amsterdam: Things to Do This February Looking for exciting things to do in Amsterdam this February? From romantic Valentine’s Day experiences to unique cultural events, Amsterdam has it all! Enjoy free concerts at the Royal Concertgebo…