Amsterdam hosts concerts, events and festivals on an almost daily basis. Of course, there are a few highlights that you really should experience while cruising the canals. We’ve listed the best canal events in Amsterdam for you.
By the way, don’t forget to rent a boat in time! We are usually fully booked more than a month in advance.
King’s Day – April 27 2023
The day on which we celebrate the birthday of our King Willem-Alexander extensively. The city turns completely orange on this day and everywhere you look, there’s a party going on. Read more information about King’s Day.
Concert on the Amstel – May 5 2023
This wonderful concert is the traditional festive end of Liberation Day in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Gay Pride – July 22 to August 6 2023
This is one of the biggest LGBTQ events in the world. There are parties everywhere in the city. The highlight, of course, is the famous colourful boat parade on the canals. More information about Amsterdam Gay Pride.
Grachtenfestival – August 11 to August 20 2023
The Grachtenfestival introduces young and old to music in a different way at special locations in the city. From classical music to jazz, everyone will find something to their taste.
Prinsengracht concert – August 19 2022
This is the largest classical open-air concert in the Netherlands. It is open to a wide audience and provides a stage for many young talents. A fun detail: the stage is on a pontoon and the audience can listen from their own boat. Be sure to register if you want to attend the concert.
Entry of Sinterklaas – November 2023
Sinterklaas never skips Amsterdam. With his steam boat and his Pieten, he brings presents and fun to the children every year. The city always gives him a warm welcome during the entry.
Amsterdam Light Festival – November 30 2023 to 21 January 2024
This is Amsterdam’s leading winter festival. Each year, the city’s streets and canals are exuberantly illuminated by various light installations from international artists. Hire a boat and visit them all.
SAIL Amsterdam – August 20 to August 24, 2025
This event takes place every 5 years in Amsterdam. For a few days, the city will be visited by a gigantic fleet of monumental ships from all over the world. Visitors can sail between the ships and see the inside of them.
Amsterdam boat event tip
Are all our boats booked? Please take a look at the website of our sister company Canal Motorboats, also located in the heart of Amsterdam. Perhaps you can still hire a boat there! You can also rent a boat on other days when there are no events. Tip: cruise past the most beautiful bridges in Amsterdam.
