Phew, the Christmas rush is over! Now that the holidays are officially done, this first weekend of January (Jan 3rd & 4th) is your last chance for some big seasonal closers. Don't miss the final hurrah for the Wereldkerstcircus Carré Theater or the Amsterdamse Winterparadijs before they pack up! We've also found a fun party at WONDR to kick off the new year.
Quick Picks
Museumplein IJsbaan (Skating)
Museumplein
Skate in the shadow of the Rijksmuseum, a classic winter activity before it closes soon.
Kerstvakantie in het Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum
Keep dry while exploring the museum with special winter family activities and tours.
WINTERSPEELCAFÉ
ARTIS
A relaxed spot at ARTIS to keep toddlers and little ones entertained during the holiday break.
Kids Party at WONDR Experience
Time to dive into the colorful, interactive world of WONDR for a special kids' party session. It’s all about messy play, bright colors, and creative exploration—perfect for shaking off the post-holiday slump. Grab your tickets quick as this seems to be a one-off weekend event.
Why we picked it: A dedicated, fun-packed party session at a popular interactive art space.
Museumplein IJsbaan
The iconic ice rink is still open, but runs until Jan 30th, so this weekend is a great time to hit the ice before the crowds thin out completely. Skate with the Rijksmuseum as your backdrop!
Why we picked it: It's one of the last few weeks this classic winter attraction is open for skating.
Kerstvakantie in het Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum has special holiday activities running this weekend—think workshops and treasure hunts like 'Missie Meesterwerk.' A perfect, culture-packed rainy day fallback.
Why we picked it: Last weekend for their special holiday-themed kid activities before the Christmas break officially ends.
Amsterdam Light Festival
The lights are still on, but this is the final weekend before the festival closes on Jan 18th! Grab a warm drink and walk/bike a section of the route—it's stunning after sunset and costs nothing to look.
Why we picked it: The final weekend to see the spectacular light installations illuminating the winter canals.
Wereldkerstcircus Carré Theater 2025
This is literally your very last chance to catch the spectacular World Christmas Circus—it wraps up today! Expect top-tier clowns, amazing acrobats, and a real 'big top' feeling that rivals international festivals.
Why we picked it: Final day to see one of Amsterdam's biggest annual festive family shows.
WINTERSPEELCAFÉ
If you need a calm spot away from the big holiday crowds, this play-café at ARTIS runs until today. It’s designed for parents and young kids to relax and play, perfect for the under-5 crowd.
Why we picked it: The last chance for this relaxed winter play area specifically for the littlest ones.
Kerstvakantie in het Wereldmuseum
They have workshops focused on global Christmas traditions and LEGO art ending today. It's a great way to see diverse cultures while the kids get hands-on with making something (like a straw ice star!).
Why we picked it: Final day for the culturally interesting, hands-on workshops before the holiday program ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Amsterdam this weekend?
This weekend (Jan 3-4), the best genuinely free activity is viewing the Amsterdam Light Festival installations along the canals—just walk or bike past! Some museums might offer free entry for kids under a certain age, but for a truly free activity, viewing the lights is your best bet.
What's the best thing to do if it rains on Saturday?
For a guaranteed dry afternoon, head to the Kerstvakantie in het Rijksmuseum for their special family workshops and hunts (like Missie Meesterwerk). Alternatively, the Wereldkerstcircus Carré Theater offers incredible indoor entertainment, but make sure to book.
Are there any last-chance holiday activities this weekend?
Yes! Sunday, Jan 4th is the absolute last day for the Wereldkerstcircus Carré Theater and the WINTERSPEELCAFÉ at ARTIS. The Museumplein IJsbaan is also finishing its run soon, so skate this weekend!