Family Encyclopedia >> Travel

Top Weekend Events in the Netherlands: January 12-14, 2018 Guide

Plan your perfect weekend with our curated guide to events, outings, and festivals across the Netherlands from January 12-14, 2018. From family-friendly fairs to thrilling light shows, there's something for everyone—young and old alike. As seasoned event experts, we've selected these highlights based on popularity, variety, and value.

Dutch Model Railway Days

Rijswijk hosts the Dutch Model Railway Days on Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14, 2018. Model train enthusiasts of all ages will love the displays, demonstrations, and opportunities to purchase parts for your own setups. Ideal for grandparents and grandkids bonding over railroads.

When: Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: Broodfabriek, Volmerlaan 12, Rijswijk

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: €10.00; €3.00 (3 to 12 years); Free (up to 3 years)

Cool Event Scheveningen

Running from November 11, 2017, to Sunday, January 14, 2018, the Cool Event transforms Scheveningen into a winter wonderland. Skate on the 600m² rink at Kurhausplein, explore the Ice Expo, and thrill on the 30-meter ice roller coaster from the pier—plus family activities galore.

When: November 11, 2017, to Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: Scheveningen boulevard/Kurhausplein, Gevers Deynootplein 121

Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Admission: €5.00 (€9.00 incl. skate rental)

Amsterdam Light Festival

From November 30, 2017, to January 21, 2018, Amsterdam's city center becomes an open-air light art museum. Admire stunning installations by foot or boat—a mesmerizing cultural experience.

When: November 30, 2017, to Sunday, January 21, 2018 (country exhibition ends January 7)

Where: Amsterdam city center

Time: 17:00 – 23:00

Admission: Various prices (for water exhibition, depending on shipping company)

Trajectum Lumen Utrecht

Every Saturday evening from January to May 2018, join a 1.5-hour guided walk past 19 illuminated artworks. Learn the stories behind each piece from expert guides.

When: Every Saturday evening from January to May

Where: Utrecht Tourist Office, Domplein 9, Utrecht

Time: 8:30 PM

Admission: €10.00 (register via VVV)

Holiday Fair Utrecht

The Vakantiebeurs 2018 runs from Wednesday, January 10, to Sunday, January 14. Spark your next vacation with presentations, live music, entertainment, and kid-friendly activities.

When: Wednesday, January 10, to Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: Jaarbeurs Utrecht, Jaarbeursplein 6, Utrecht

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM)

Admission: €15.50 (day ticket); €12.00 (afternoon); €9.00 (Saturday evening); Free for children up to 16

Kartbeurs of the Netherlands

Motorsport fans head to Lelystad on January 13-14, 2018, for exhibitors, associations, tracks, and drivers. Celebrate the new kart season and honor Dutch champions.

When: Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: Lelystad Airport, Talingweg 89, Lelystad

Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission: €5.00; Free for children up to 12

Stallion Inspection

Leeuwarden's Stallion Inspection from Thursday, January 11, to Saturday, January 13, 2018, showcases Friesian horses with clinics, inspections, and shows for all ages.

When: Thursday, January 11, to Saturday, January 13, 2018

Where: WTC Expo, Heliconweg 52, Leeuwarden

Time: Thursday/Friday 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Admission: From €14.00 (adults); From €9.00 (children up to 12)

Gelredome Flea Market

Bargain hunters rejoice: Over 500 stalls inside the Gelredome on January 13-14, 2018, with second-hand toys, books, clothes, and more—rain or shine.

When: Saturday, January 13, and Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: Gelredome, Batavierenweg 25, Arnhem

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Admission: €4.50; Free for children up to 12 (supervised); Free parking

InterClassics Maastricht

Celebrate 25 years at InterClassics Maastricht from January 11-14, 2018. Relive highlights from past themes amid exclusive classic cars for all admirers.

When: Thursday, January 11, to Sunday, January 14, 2018

Where: MECC Maastricht, Forum 100, Maastricht

Time: Thursday 12:00 – 20:00; Friday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Saturday/Sunday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

What are your plans this weekend? Share your favorite events or tips for January 12-14 in the comments below!