Expat Guide: Winter Events Near You

Discover the best winter events in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Eindhoven, perfect for expats staying in one of our Corporate Housing Factory’s serviced apartments this winter. From light festivals to cosy Christmas markets, get ready to see it all! 

Experience a Dutch Winter Like a Local

The Netherlands transforms into a magical winter wonderland from November through January with canals sparkling, festive markets popping up, and locals embracing gezelligheid (cosiness). If you’re an expat or corporate traveller staying in one of our properties, you’re perfectly placed to experience the season’s highlights. Whether you’re in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or Eindhoven, there’s something special waiting just outside your door. This expat guide covers the best winter events near your short-stay apartment, along with tips to keep your stay warm, festive, and unforgettable. 

Amsterdam: Lights, Ice, and Winter Magic

Living in a serviced apartment in Amsterdam means you're in the heart of the action. Winter in the capital is cosy, cultural, and creative. Below, we have gathered some ultimate highlights to check out, but if you want to learn about every single thing happening over the holiday season, make sure to check out the Winter Festival Amsterdam website. 

Amsterdam Light Festival ( Dec. 27th 2025 - Jan. 18th 2026)

Every winter, Amsterdam’s canals are transformed into a glittering open-air art gallery. The Amsterdam Light Festival showcases light installations by international artists, best seen from a boat tour or evening stroll. In case you want to make that stroll even better, make sure to check out tickets for the available oyster, Amsterdam, street food or cocktail walk. 

👉 Secure your walk! 

Amsterdam Winter Paradise RAI (Dec.13th 2025 - Jan. 3rd 2026)

This indoor-outdoor winter theme park features ice-skating, tubing slides, a Ferris wheel, and live music. It’s a great place for expats and families to enjoy Dutch winter traditions in a single spot.

👉 Catch the holiday spirit!  

Christmas Village Amsterdam Museumplein (Dec. 4th 2025 - Dec. 28th 2025)

One of the most photogenic Christmas markets in the Netherlands is back with its 8th edition. With over 45 wooden stalls, a big selection of different food options and plenty of places to sip on some mulled wine, it offers the ideal location for a perfect day. On top of that, don’t forget to skate a circle underneath the Rijksmuseum as well!  

👉 Discover all 45+ stalls! 

Rotterdam: Urban Lights and Festive Energy

Rotterdam brings modern flair to winter fetivities. Staying at one of our apartments in Rotterdam brings you just that much closer to culture, design, and dynamic city life. 

Rotterdam Christmas Market (Dec. 19th 2025 - Dec. 23rd 2023) 

For the first time this year, the Christmas market is set around the entire Oude Haven (Old Harbour), allowing visitors to wander a charming circular route lined with twinkling stalls, cosy fire pits, and lively food and drink spots. The vibrant heart of the market can be found at Gelderse Plein, where you’ll not only discover the central bar but also enjoy live performances and plenty of winter cheer, making it the perfect place to settle in. 

👉 Soak up the festive atmosphere! 

Rotterdam Rave Winter Special (Dec. 13th 2025)

Prefer beats to bells? Rotterdam's famous electronic music event keeps the energy high well into the night. It's a favourite among international residents and young professionals. 

👉 Put on those dancing shoes!

Festive Shows & Performances in Rotterdam

Looking for something different? The city offers a wide range of Christmas-inspired performances to enjoy. Experience a magical ballet, immerse yourself in enchanting (classical) concerts, or take the whole family to a heart-warming theatre show. 

👉 Christmas on the agenda 

The Hague: Royal Festivities and Cultural Warmth

The Hague (Den Haag) offers an elegant, international winter experience. From festive fairs to seaside serenity, expats can enjoy both calm and celebration.

Royal Christmas Fair The Hague (Dec. 4th 2025 - Dec. 23rd 2025)

One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the Netherlands, right in the heart of the historic centre of The Hague! The Royal Christmas Fair features more than 100 stalls, a live choir, and hot chocolate under twinkling trees, right in the city centre. This 10th edition promises to be even more festive, charming, and colourful than ever before, and best of all: entry is completely free! 

 👉 Plan your royal visit!

Scheveningen Winter Wonderland 

The perfect coastal escape on a crisp afternoon! Scheveningen turns into a sparkling winter playground this season, filled with light, music, and enchanting performances for all ages. Across two festive weekends, visitors can even enjoy illuminated spectacles, roaming acts, and a series of magical highlights along the Boulevard and around the Kurhaus. 

👉 Check the event highlights! 

Expat Meet-Ups & Welcome Events

The Hague International Centre regularly hosts events for new arrivals throughout the year. A great way to meet fellow internationals, also during the colder months! 

 👉 Meet fellow expats 

Eindhoven: Design, Lights and Local Markets

Known for its innovation and design culture, Eindhoven shines brightest in winter. 

Christmas Market Wasven (Dec. 13th 2025)

Indulge in a warm hot chocolate or glühwein and top it off with a delicious Dutch oliebol! The Wasven Christmas Market offers tasty treats, local products, handmade gifts, and live music, a perfect mix of festive flavours and cosy atmosphere.

 👉Indulge here! 

Burst Your Bubble (Dec. 19th & 20th 2025)

During these two days, Eindhoven invites locals and internationals to connect and bridge the gap. During these winter months and the holiday season, stepping out of your comfort zone and meeting new people can become more important than ever when you're new to the city! 

👉 Expand your comfort zone!

The Torchlight Parade (Dec. 24th 2025)

Eindhoven's very own longstanding tradition since 1992. Every year, locals come together to carry torches and share a message of unity, peace and tolerance, so if you feel that this resonates, grab a torch and join in! 

 👉 Light up Christmas Eve 

 

Why Expats Love coming to their Serviced Apartments in Winter 

Staying in a Corporate Housing Factory apartment means you can experience the beauty of Dutch winter, without the hassle of short-term rentals or cold hotel rooms. Here’s why serviced apartments are ideal for winter stays: 

• Fully furnished & warm: Modern interiors and heating keep you cosy all season. 
• Central locations: Easy access to public transport and city-centre events. 
• Work-friendly: High-speed Wi-Fi and space to work remotely during colder days. 
• Home comfort: Cook your own winter favourites, from stamppot to hot soup, in your own kitchen. 
• Community & networking: Many residents are expats, so it’s easy to meet others enjoying the same experience. 

Tips for Enjoying Winter in the Netherlands 

• Dress in layers: Dutch winters are mild but damp, so make sure to bring waterproof coats and boots. 
• Travel smart: Use the NS app or 9292 journey planner to navigate easily between cities. 
• Book early: Popular events like the Amsterdam Light Festival can sell out fast. 
• Embrace 'gezelligheid': Visit cafés, attend meet-ups, and explore! Dutch winter is all about finding warmth in shared moments. 

Whether you’re skating under fairy lights in Amsterdam, shopping in Rotterdam, sipping glühwein at The Hague’s Royal Christmas Fair, or exploring Eindhoven’s creative markets, your serviced apartment with Corporate Housing Factory is the perfect base. 

This winter, don’t just live in the Netherlands but experience it like a local!