It’s that time of the year again! Time for Christmas markets in the Netherlands! 🎄
With numerous festive events, Christmas trees, decorations, and that lovely, cosy feeling, December is my favourite month of the year. A big reason for this is Christmas markets. Since I’m a massive fan of everything related to Christmas, I did some research again this year, and put together a list of all Christmas markets organised in the Netherlands in 2025. I first compiled this list nine years ago and updated it ever since.
So, if you would like to visit some Christmas markets in the Netherlands, here is your complete guide to the Dutch Christmas markets in 2025.
Christmas Markets in the Netherlands with 2025 Agenda
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Numerous festive events will be organised in the Netherlands during December 2025, from the vintage Christmas market that will transport you back to the beginning of the 20th century to some located in castles or underground caves. Almost every single Dutch town will have an ice skating rink, many Christmas concerts, Santa’s visits, and shopping opportunities for lovely Christmas presents.
Christmas Markets in Amsterdam 2025
More and more things are organised each year during the winter months in Amsterdam, and I can see such a big improvement each year. From its fantastic Light Festival and smaller markets at the art galleries to some bigger events, there’s so much to do during the Christmas time in Amsterdam.
⤷ Read more: 10 Things You Should Do During the Christmas Season in Amsterdam
Christmas Market on Museumplein in 2025 (Ice* Village)
Date: 15 November 2025 – 6 February 2026
Location: Museumplein, Amsterdam
With its cosy Christmas setting, Ice* Amsterdam becomes one of the most beautiful places in Amsterdam each December. It’s located at Museumplein, surrounded by some of the best museums in Amsterdam, like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and Moco Museum.
It is also home to one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful ice skating rinks, as well. I loved ice skating there last year, especially during the working days or mornings when it was less busy. After a museum visit and some ice skating, you can warm yourself up with mulled wine or a hot chocolate at a Winter restaurant, Bistro Het Wak, next to the rink.
A few days ago, I already saw they started with preparations, so the ice skating rink will open on 15 November. While the Christmas Market on Museumplein, known as Amsterdam Ice* Village, will be open between 4 and 28 December 2025.
⤷ Read more: What to see at Museumplein in Amsterdam
Winter Pure Markt 2025
Date: 21 December 2025, 11 am – 5 pm
Location: Park Frankendael, Amsterdam
The Christmas edition of the Pure Markt will be held on Sunday, 21 December, at Park Frankendael. Stalls will be there between 11 am and 5 pm. You can expect excellent food from around the world, homemade jams and other yummy dishes. You’ll find some clothes, jewellery and toys there, as well. For more info about Winter Pure Markt, take a look here!
⤷ Read more: Christmas Presents from or Inspired by Amsterdam
Amsterdam Light Festival 2025
Dates: 27 November 2025 – 18 January 2026
Location: Various locations in the centre of Amsterdam
The 14th edition of ALF, with the theme “Legacy,” will take place between 27 November 2025 and 18 January 2026. It’s a beautiful festival celebrating the art of light, with numerous installations created by international artists displayed alongside the route. I visit the Light Festival in Amsterdam almost every year and strongly recommend it!
The best way to see it is on one of the special canal cruise boats following the Light Festival route. You’ll find several canal cruise options to see the Amsterdam Light Festival on this link. Book your tickets in advance to be sure to secure your spot!
⤷ TIP: You can also walk alongside the route to see the light installations. However, for the full experience, I recommend exploring them on one of the boat cruises.
Funky Xmas Market 2025
Date: 21 December 2025
Location: Westergas, Pazzanistraat 33, Amsterdam
This unique Christmas market is organised each year in Amsterdam. It’s a special edition of Sunday Market called Funky Xmas Market. It will be held at Westergasfabriek on Sunday, 21 December 2025. For more info about Funky Xmas Market, take a look here!
Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs 2025
Dates: 13 December 2025 – 3 January 2026
Location: RAI, Amsterdam
RAI in Amsterdam will be transformed into a real winter fairytale during the last three weeks of this year. With some real snow and winter environment, it is one of the best places for Christmas activities in Amsterdam. It will also become the home to the Netherlands’ largest ice skating rink.
Besides some music events and winter activities, it will also host a Ferris wheel from which you can enjoy a fantastic view of Amsterdam. For more info and tickets, take a look here.
⤷ Read more: Christmas in Art – The Most Beautiful Christmas Themed Artworks
Winter Village in Amstelveen
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Stadsplein, Amstelveen
Located next to the Stadshart shopping mall, the Christmas market in Amstelveen is held between 29 November 2025 and 4 January 2026. It will be home to a 400 m2 ice skating rink, delicious hot chocolate with whipped cream, and visits by Pieten and Disney princesses.
For more info about Winter Village in Amstelveen, take a look here.
Dutch Christmas Markets in Castles 2025
Castle Christmas Fair 2025
Dates: 26 – 30 November 2025
Location: Duin & Kruidberg Estate, Santpoort-Noord
This unique Christmas Market in the Netherlands is located at a beautiful 17th-century castle on the Duin & Kruidberg country estate. During the five days, you’ll get a chance to shop, enjoy the music program, and immerse yourself in a cosy Christmas atmosphere surrounded by sparkling lights.
Besides that, you can also enjoy high tea or even an overnight stay at the estate. Check their website for tickets and more info.
The Luminous Nights 2025
Dates: 6 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: De Haar Castle
During December 2025, nights at De Haar Castle will be especially magical. Through the light and sound installations, the animals of De Haar Castle will come to life each night. The walk around the castle’s light route is 90 minutes long (around 2.5 kilometres) and it will make this winter just a bit more magical.
⤷ Read more: Christmas Traditions in Europe
Christmas Market for Book Lovers 2025
MH Books Event – Christmas Edition
Date: 30 November 2025
Location: Van der Valk Hotel, Avenue of Westroijen 10, 4003 AZ Tiel
This is a great book event for all the book lovers in the Netherlands. You’ll get a chance to chat with your favourite book authors, get signed copies of their books and buy some wonderful Christmas presents. Books in both Dutch and English will be available. Check out this link for the full list of participants and more info.
⤷ TIP: I’ll also participate at it and will sell my “Following Van Gogh” book on discounted price, for 19,99 EUR. Get in touch if you’d like to preorder it to secure your copy.
Christmas Market in Maastricht 2025
Maastricht Christmas Market 2025
Dates: 28 November – 29 December 2025
Location: Vrijthof, Maastricht
The biggest Christmas market in the Netherlands, and my absolute favourite, takes place between 28 November and 29 December 2025. The main square in the charming Dutch town of Maastricht is becoming a Christmas village during the whole month of December.
It will be home to an ice skating rink, a Ferris wheel, many Christmas stalls and nicely decorated small restaurants and cafés. You can read more about the Maastricht Christmas Market on this link.
⤷ Read more: 10 Best Things to do in Maastricht
Christmas Market in Valkenburg 2025
Christmas Town Valkenburg 2025
Dates: 14 November – 30 December 2025
Location: Cauberg 4, Valkenburg a/d Geul
Very close to Maastricht, you’ll find another Dutch Christmas gem, Europe’s largest underground Christmas market. Organised between 14 November and 30 December 2025, it’s one of the most popular Christmas markets in the Netherlands.
This market was also awarded the European Best Christmas Market in 2020. So it’s a Christmas Market in the Netherlands that shouldn’t be missed! For more info about the Christmas Town Valkenburg, take a look here!
Christmas Market in Gouda 2025
Gouda bij Kaarslicht 2025
Dates: 12 December 2025
Location: Markt, Gouda
One of the most beautiful Dutch Christmas Markets is organised again this year on 12 December 2025, known as Gouda bij Kaarslicht. During it, the main square of Gouda will only be lit by candles. Its highlight is lighting the Christmas tree lights between 7 and 8 pm.
During this time, different events will take place in the historical centre of Gouda, from musical performances to guided tours and workshops.
Christmas Market in The Hague 2025
Royal Christmas Fair 2025
Dates: 4 – 23 December 2025
Location: Lange Vijverberg, The Hague
As home to the Dutch Royal family, it comes as no surprise that The Hague is organising the Royal Christmas Fair. You can visit it from 4 to 23 December 2025, daily between 12 and 9 pm, at the Lange Vijverberg. That park in The Hague city centre will become home to numerous Christmas stalls, beautiful decorations, a great cultural program, and daily visits from Santa Claus. For more info about the Royal Christmas Fair, take a look here.
⤷ Read more: Royal Winter Trip to The Hague
⤷ TIP: Are you looking for Christmas cards inspired by the Netherlands? Check out my colouring Christmas cards on this link.
Christmas Market in Deventer 2025
Dickens Festival
Dates: 13 & 14 December 2025
Location: Deventer city centre
This special festive event features characters from Charles Dickens’ books, like Oliver Twist and Mr Pickwick. The Christmas spirit will be spread throughout the town with a Christmas market on the main square and different choirs performing Christmas songs.
The Dickens Festival will be held on 13 and 14 December in the Dutch town of Deventer. For more info about the Dickens Festival, take a look here.
Christmas Market in Haarlem 2025
Christmas Market Haarlem
Dates: 12 – 14 December 2025
Location: Haarlem city centre
One of my favourite Christmas markets in the Netherlands is the one in Haarlem. It’s organised on the main square, Grote Markt, and the picturesque streets surrounding it, between 12 and 14 December 2025. You’ll get to join the 19th-century Christmas celebration at the Schagchelstraat, which will be transformed into Emma’s Street. Meanwhile, the Kleine Houtstraat will be transferred back to the Middle Ages.
⤷ TIP: Friday is always a bit quieter, while Saturday and Sunday are filled with various events and performances. Check out this link for more info about the Christmas Market in Haarlem.
⤷ Read more: Things to do in Haarlem
Ice Sculpture Festival 2025
Dates: 13 December 2025 – 8 March 2026
Location: Strandgaperweg 20, 8256 PZ Biddinghuizen
One of Europe’s largest ice sculpture exhibitions will be held between 13 December 2025 and 8 March 2026 at Biddinghuizen. Numerous unique ice sculptures will be exhibited within this year’s theme, which is still a secret.
It’s an international event, so artists from around the world create their ice sculptures for this special festival. For more info about the Ice Sculpture Festival, take a look here.
Christmas Markets in Rotterdam 2025
Trompenburg Greene Christmas Market 2025
Dates: 12, 13 & 14 December 2025
Location: Trompenburg Tuinen & Arboretum, Rotterdam
The botanical garden of Trompenburg is home to this intimate and sustainable Christmas market. To keep up with the theme, all the products you’ll find there are made by local producers and are green and sustainable. It’s a great place to buy Christmas greenery straight from the garden. Numerous food stalls, workshops, and music performances will make it even more festive. You can read more about this unique Christmas Market here.
⤷ TIP: You should pay a regular entrance fee to the garden to get to this Christmas market. However, it’s free with the Museumkaart.
⤷ Read more: Rotterdam Travel Guide
Other Christmas events in Rotterdam 2025
Other markets organised in Rotterdam during December will also have a Christmas feel and be great places to find holiday presents. The Christmas edition of The Maker Market (12, 13 & 14 December 2025) will be held at the Groothandelsgebouw. You’ll find products made by local artists, designers, and creatives, together with stalls providing food and beverages.
Christmas Market in Leiden 2025
Winter Wonder Weeks Leiden 2025
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Leiden city centre
Leiden will be home to several festive events in December. Its highlight is the Nostalgic Christmas Market organised at the Hooglandse Kerkgracht on 12 – 14 December and between 18 and 21 December 2025. You’ll find a picturesque winter village with stands selling various products, food, and drinks.
Besides that, you can also visit the Lights Art Market on 29 November, the House of Sinterklaas in the Waag between 22 November and 2 December, skate on the Floating Ice Rink between 6 December 2025 and 4 January 2026, watch the Family Christmas Tattoo Show on 13 December, and join the Rotary Santa Run on 18 December 2025.
Christmas Market in Alkmaar 2025
Christmas events in Alkmaar 2025
Dates: 20 – 23 December 2025
Location: Waagplein, Alkmaar
Alkmaar will be home to many festive events this December. The annual Christmas Market in Alkmaar will be organised between 20 and 23 December 2025 on Waagplein. Delicious food, Christmas decorations, or performances of a special Christmas choir are just some of the things you could find there.
While there, check out the Christmas tree on Canadaplein with a unique decoration, typical Alkmaar cheese Christmas lights.
Christmas Market in Dordrecht 2025
December in Dordrecht 2025
Dates: 12 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Several locations in Dordrecht
Dordrecht will be festive this December, with many events organised there. Dordrecht December Market will be held on 13 and 14 December at Grotekerkstuin, Grotekerksbuurt, and Groenmarkt. In its cosy wooden houses, you’ll find many lovely products to put under your Christmas tree.
Between 26 and 30 December, the garden of the Grote Kerk will become home to the Winter Garden. You’ll find many food stalls there and can enjoy music performances.
The Dwaalspoor Light Walk is one of the highlights of the Christmas season in Dordrecht. From 12 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, you can follow the special route in the city centre and admire the light installations around it. To make it even more special, take a canal cruise and enjoy the light art from a boat. Take a look here for more info about all the December events in Dordrecht.
⤷ TIP: You’ll also find a nice ice skating rink at the Dordrecht city centre.
Christmas in Archeon 2025
Archeon Winter Events 2025
Dates: 16 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Location: Archeonlaan, Alphen aan den Rijn
One of my favourite places in the Netherlands to get into a Christmas mood is the Archeon Museum Park. Visiting it will provide a lovely Christmas atmosphere with a sense of history.
Archeon hosts many events and festivities this winter between 16 November 2025 and 4 January 2026, including the City of Sinterklaas, Midwinter Fair, Christmas Brunch, Light Festival, and ice skating – all of that in a beautiful historical setting. For more info about winter events in Archeon, take a look here.
⤷ Read more: Archeon Museum Park – A Place Where History is Coming to Life
Christmas Market in Utrecht 2025
Christmas events in Utrecht 2025
Dates: The Winter Station (13 December 2025 – 4 January 2026), Utrecht Lumen (until 29 March 2026)
Location: The Winter Station (Maliebaanstation 16, Utrecht), Utrecht Lumen (several locations in Utrecht city centre)
Although Utrecht doesn’t host a Christmas market in the traditional sense, it’s home to one of the most charming indoor Christmas events. The Winter Station at the Railway Museum takes place between 13 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. During that time, the museum is transformed into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink, Christmas trees, and fun activities. You can read more about it on this link.
Another fun thing to do in Utrecht during Christmas is walking along the Utrecht Lumen. You can explore the light art pieces scattered around the city centre during the guided tour or on your own. Check out this link to learn more about the Utrecht Lumen.
Christmas Market in Groningen 2025
WinterWelVaart 2025
Dates: 19 – 21 December 2025
Location: Groningen city centre
On the weekend of 19 – 21 December 2025, a special event will be organised in Groningen. Old charter ships will fill the canal there, which will be open to visitors. Many activities will be organised, including a Christmas market, exhibitions, and concerts. For more info about Winter WelVaart in Groningen, take a look here.
With so many events, 2025 will be the year of the best and largest Dutch Christmas Markets. This guide to the Christmas markets in the Netherlands in 2025 will help you find some to visit.
Are you planning to visit any Christmas markets in the Netherlands this year? What is your favourite? Let me know in the comments below!
