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Curated Weekend Guide: Top Events, Festivals & Outings in the Netherlands, March 31–April 2, 2017

Discover our expert-curated weekend guide for March 31 to April 2, 2017, featuring the best events, outings, and festivals across the Netherlands. From Friday, March 31, through Sunday, April 2, find engaging activities for all ages—many free—tailored for families, culture lovers, and adventure seekers.

Movies that Matter Festival

Film enthusiasts will love the Movies that Matter Festival in The Hague, running from Friday, March 24, to Saturday, April 1, 2017. Explore powerful films and documentaries on human rights, sustainability, and justice, alongside debates, performances, and exhibitions. Connect with international filmmakers, journalists, politicians, and more.

When: Friday, March 24 to Saturday, April 1, 2017

Where: Filmhuis Den Haag and Theater aan het Spui, Spui 191, The Hague

Time: See website

Admission: See website

Book Week Rotterdam

Book Week Rotterdam runs from Saturday, March 25, to Sunday, April 2, 2017 (with additional events from Friday, March 24, to Saturday, April 1). This year's theme, "Forbidden Fruit," features the theater performance 'The American Princess,' author talks, a film screening on April 1, and an international literary spectacle on April 2. Perfect for literature fans.

When: Saturday, March 25 to Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Rotterdam Library, Hoogstraat 110, Rotterdam

Time: See website

Admission: See website

Come into the Greenhouse

Experience Dutch greenhouse horticulture during the open days of Kom in de Kas on April 1–2, 2017, at various locations. Tour over 200 greenhouses for free, see vegetable and flower cultivation up close, enjoy tastings, and gain insights—fun for all ages.

When: Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Various locations (see website)

Time: Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Admission: Free

The Heemstede Art Fair

Celebrating its 5th anniversary, the Heemstede Art Fair from Friday, March 31, to Sunday, April 2, 2017, showcases painting, photography, animation, 3D printing, live music, and kids' activities.

When: Friday, March 31 to Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Sportplaza Groenendaal, Sportparklaan 16, Heemstede

Time: Friday 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Saturday & Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: €2.50

Tulip Festival Amsterdam

The Tulip Festival Amsterdam blooms from Saturday, April 1, to Saturday, April 15, 2017, with tulip displays at 60 locations and guided routes—a colorful, free celebration of the iconic flower.

When: Saturday, April 1 to Saturday, April 15, 2017

Where: 60 locations in Amsterdam

Time: All day

Admission: Free

Trajectum Lumen Utrecht with Guide

On Saturday, April 1, 2017, join a guided 1.5-hour tour of 18 artistically illuminated sites in Utrecht during Trajectum Lumen (April 1–15). Discover works by international artists along a stunning route.

When: Saturday, April 1, 2017

Where: Utrecht

Time: 9:30 PM

Admission: €10.00

4 Miles of Emmen

The Netherlands' justice run, 4 Miles of Emmen, takes place Sunday, April 2, 2017, supporting victims of slavery. Runs for all levels, including kids, wind through an historic village with pre- and post-event activities.

When: Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Emmen (Oude Delft)

Time: See website

Admission: See website

Braderie Almere Haven

Family-friendly fair in Almere Haven shopping center on April 1–2, with diverse activities to keep everyone entertained.

When: Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2

Where: Almere Haven

Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Admission: Free

Night of Philosophy Fryslân

Marking its 10th anniversary, Night of Philosophy Fryslân spans Friday, March 31, to Sunday, April 2, 2017, with workshops, concerts, and more for all ages.

When: Friday, March 31 to Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Various locations in Leeuwarden

Time: See website

Admission: Evening €19.50; Passe-partout €24.50; Free for youth program (up to 13)

Children's Clothing and Toy Fair XXL

Sunday, April 2, 2017, in Den Bosch: 185 stalls of new and second-hand kids' clothing and toys at Maaspoort Sports & Events.

When: Sunday, April 2, 2017

Where: Maaspoort Sport & Event, Marathonloop 2, Den Bosch

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Admission: €2.00; Free for children up to 12

Wooden Light Parade

Spectacular illuminated carnival floats parade through Mierlo-Hout center in Helmond on Saturday, April 1, 2017—a family highlight.

When: Saturday, April 1, 2017

Where: Center Mierlo-Hout, Helmond

Time: 7:30 PM

Admission: €2.50