As a dedicated curator of Dutch events with years of experience highlighting family favorites, I've compiled the top weekend tips for May 5-7, 2017. Discover engaging events, outings, and festivals suitable for all ages—many free. Whether you're celebrating Liberation Day or seeking adventure, here's your trusted guide to an unforgettable weekend.
Friday, May 5, marks Liberation Day with festivals nationwide. For a complete roundup of events, family outings, and more, check our dedicated guide: What to Do on Liberation Day 2017? It lists everything clearly and conveniently.
This vibrant festival runs from Wednesday, May 3, to Sunday, May 7, 2017, offering shows and interactive fun for all ages at Schouwburgplein, Rotterdam. Watch performances or become a superhero yourself—pure family entertainment.
When: Wednesday, May 3 to Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Schouwburgplein, Rotterdam
Time: See website
Access: Varies by program (check website)
On Sunday, May 7, witness an thrilling birds-of-prey demonstration amid the Randstad at Farm Close by, Zwethkade Noord 3, Wateringen. Learn about vultures, owls, and buzzards with family workshops and photo ops. Spots are limited.
When: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Farm Close by, Zwethkade Noord 3, Wateringen
Time: 1:00 PM start
Admission: Free
Sunday, May 7 brings hands-on creativity at Klokhuis MaakLab, Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision, Media Parkboulevard 1, Hilversum. Kids craft, saw, and design under expert supervision from 2:00-4:30 PM.
Admission: €9 (ages 4-12), €13 (13+), free with museum year card
During the May holidays (April 22-30, 2017), tackle animal-themed challenges at Amersfoort Zoo, Barchman Wuytierslaan 224. Guides assist visitors of all ages.
When: Saturday, April 22 to Sunday, April 30, 2017
Where: Amersfoort Zoo, Barchman Wuytierslaan 224
Time: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Admission: €21 adults, €18 (3-12 years), free (under 3)
Sunday, May 7 celebrates the launch of Utrecht's Bio Markt at Metal Cathedral, Rijksstraatweg 20. Savor local organic produce, meats, fish, and cheeses every first Sunday monthly.
When: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Metal Cathedral, Rijksstraatweg 20, Utrecht
Time: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Admission: Free
Sunday, May 7's Spring Festival at Slottuintheater, Hernhuttersingel, Zeist, features 30+ acts: acrobatics, illusions, comedy, and street theater. Ideal multigenerational outing.
When: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Slottuintheater, Hernhuttersingel, Zeist
Admission: Free
Saturday-Sunday, May 6-7 at UNESCO-listed Museum Schokland, Middelbuurt 3, Ens. Over 60 stands with Nordic foods, drinks, music, and workshops.
When: Saturday-May 6 & Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Museum Schokland, Middelbuurt 3, Ens
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €7.50 adults, €2.50 (6-11 years), free (0-5)
Saturday, May 6: Exchange plants, cuttings, and seeds at De Blokhuispoort farmer's market, Blokhuisplein 40, Leeuwarden—perfect for urban gardeners.
When: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Where: De Blokhuispoort, Blokhuisplein 40, Leeuwarden
Time: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Admission: Free
Step back to the Middle Ages on May 6-7 at Cannenburch Castle, Maarten van Rossumplein 4, Vaassen. Knight battles, birds-of-prey shows, and medieval feasts await.
When: Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Cannenburch Castle, Maarten van Rossumplein 4, Vaassen
Time: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €9.50 (combo ticket), €4 (4-12), €5.50 (13+ event only)
Sunday, May 7 in Valkhof Park, Nijmegen: 50+ stands of unique handmade goods for all ages.
When: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Valkhof Park, Nijmegen
Time: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Saturday, May 6 art market in Venlo center (Dominicanenplein) showcases amateur and pro artists live at work.
When: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Where: Venlo center (Dominicanenplein)
Time: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
May 6-7 at Port of Heusden, Vimmerik, Nieuwkuijk: 150+ attractions including birds-of-prey, workshops, food trucks, and Highland Games.
When: Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Port of Heusden, Vimmerik, Nieuwkuijk
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €12 adults, free (under 12)
May 6-7 Kite Festival at Schafterdijk 9, Valkenswaard: Colorful kites, including evening illuminated displays—fly your own too.
When: Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May 7, 2017
Where: Schafterdijk 9, Valkenswaard
Time: From 10:00 AM
Admission: Free
What are your plans? Share your favorite events or tips in the comments below!
