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Top Weekend Events & Festivals: 20-22 January 2017 Across the Netherlands

Planning an unforgettable weekend? Our expert-curated guide highlights the best events, festivals, and family outings for 20-22 January 2017. From dazzling light displays to cultural fairs, there's something engaging for everyone—young and old alike, including free options.

Amsterdam Light Festival

Last chance to experience the magic! Running from 1 December 2016 to 22 January 2017, this fifth edition features 35 artists transforming Amsterdam into a luminous wonderland. Enjoy the Water Colors boat cruise past illuminated artworks, with participating museums adding to the spectacle.

When: Thursday, 1 December 2016 to Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: Amsterdam city center

Time: All day

Admission: Partly free

Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival in Amsterdam

Don't miss out—open until 5 February 2017! Launched on 10 December 2016, this festival showcases the theme 'It's All About Music' in stunning ice and snow sculptures across 1,300 m² at -8°C.

When: Saturday, 10 December 2016 to 5 February 2017

Where: Arena Boulevard, Amsterdam

Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Admission: €16.50; €10.00 (ages 4+); Free (under 3, with adult)

For Real Amsterdam

Contemporary figurative art takes center stage from 19 January to 2 January 2017 at this vibrant festival. Discover new artists and immerse yourself in diverse works.

When: Thursday, 19 January to Sunday, 2 January 2017

Where: Passenger Terminal Amsterdam, Piet Heinkade 27, Amsterdam

Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Admission: €12.50; €8.00 (under 18)

Alkmaar Eigenste Festival

Mark your calendars for this cultural extravaganza on 21 January 2017. Four stages host performances across genres, plus a kids' playground for family fun.

When: Saturday, 21 January 2017

Where: Cool 310, Koelmalaan 310, Alkmaar

Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 AM

Admission: €8.00; Free (under 16)

The French Holidays

Dreaming of France? Visit the Westergasfabriek on 21-22 January 2017 to explore chambres d'hôtes, campsites, and domaines. Enjoy workshops, French snacks, and drinks.

When: Saturday, 21 January and Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: Westergasfabriek, Pazzanistraat 33, Amsterdam

Time: Sat 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM; Sun 12:00 – 5:30 PM

Admission: From €8.75

Winternachten – International Literature Festival The Hague

A diverse lineup of conversations, lectures, films, and music from 19-22 January 2017. Featuring national and international guests—check the website for details.

When: Thursday, 19 January to Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: Theater aan het Spui and Filmhuis Den Haag, Spui 187, The Hague

Time & Admission: See website

Dutch Model Railway Days Rijswijk

Model train fans rejoice! This family-friendly fair runs 21-22 January 2017—perfect for all ages.

When: Saturday, 21 January and Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: The Bread Factory, Volmerlaan 12, Rijswijk

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: €10.00; €3.00 (3-12 years); Free (under 3)

The Northern Motor Show

Motorcycle heaven from 20-22 January 2017 with over 110 exhibitors offering new and used bikes, parts, and more.

When: Friday, 20 January to Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: Martiniplaza, Leonard Springerlaan 2, Groningen

Time: Fri 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Sat/Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Admission: €12.00; Free (under 12)

Love and Marriage Fair Eindhoven

Wedding planning or inspiration? Over 100 exhibitors, catwalk shows, food, and everything love-related on 21-22 January 2017.

When: Saturday, 21 and Sunday, 22 January 2017

Where: Eindhoven Beursgebouw, Lardinoisstraat 8, Eindhoven

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: €14.00

Know more great events for 20-22 January 2017? Share in the comments—we'll add them!