Autumn holidays are just around the corner. As a seasoned family outing expert, I've curated the top tips for autumn holidays 2018—perfect excursions for kids and adults alike across the Netherlands. Many are free or budget-friendly.
Curious about the exact dates? The holidays span two weeks to avoid overcrowding, with identical schedules for primary and secondary schools:
North and Central Regions: 20 October to 28 October 2018
South Region: 13 to 21 October 2018
Explore history hands-on during the National Archaeology Days, held nationwide on Friday 12, Saturday 13, and Sunday 14 October 2018. Family-friendly activities abound, with a small fee for select events.
When: Friday 12 to Sunday 14 October 2018
Where: Nationwide
Time: Check website for provincial programs
Admission: See website
The Cinekid Film Festival runs from 13 to 28 October, featuring special Amsterdam shows from 20 to 26 October. Enjoy films, theater, and media labs for ages 3-14 nationwide.
When: Saturday 13 to Sunday 28 October 2018
Where: Various locations; see website
Time: See website
Admission: €5.00 – €10.00 (varies by location, show, and age)
Celebrate Hilde's birthday on 21 October or join the party week from 20 to 28 October. Step back to 1799 with Napoleonic soldiers, a gunsmith, magician, cake, and gifts (while supplies last).
When: Saturday 20 to Sunday 28 October 2018
Where: Huis van Hilde, Westerplein 6, Castricum
Time: Sat/Sun 11:00–17:00; Mon 10:00–17:00; Tue–Fri 09:00–17:00
Admission: €5.00 adults; €3.00 (5-17 years); free (≤4 years)
From 17 to 21 October, The Hague's Generation Discover Festival showcases tech, science, and innovation. Ride the Ferris wheel, experiment, and envision the future together.
When: Wednesday 17 to Sunday 21 October 2018
Where: Malieveld, The Hague
Time: 09:00–18:00
Admission: Free (book tickets online)
Banish boredom with De Betovering (https://www.debetovering.nl/), The Hague's youth art festival for ages 2-12. Over 550 performances and workshops from 19 to 27 October.
When: Friday 19 to Saturday 27 October 2018
Where: Various locations; see website
Time: See website
Admission: Free – €7.00
From 13 to 28 October, embark on castle, animal, and park quests at De Haar. An engaging way for families to explore.
When: Saturday 13 to Sunday 28 October 2018
Where: Kasteel de Haar, Kasteellaan 1, Haarzuilens
Time: 09:00–17:00 (castle from 11:00)
Admission: €16.00 adults; €12.50 (4–12 years); free (≤4 years, Museumkaart; quest book €2.50)
The world's largest Lego event returns 18-24 October at Jaarbeurs Utrecht. Build, shop, enjoy kids-only activities, cinema, and a Bugatti Chiron replica.
When: Thursday 18 to Wednesday 24 October 2018
Where: Jaarbeurs Utrecht
Time: 10:00–17:00
Admission: €25.00 (€19.50 online)
Discover Chuggington from 19-23 October at Utrecht's Railway Museum. See trains, enjoy a turntable, play mat, and treasure hunt for full-day fun.
When: Friday 19 to Tuesday 23 October 2018
Where: Railway Museum, Maliebaanstation, Utrecht
Time: 10:00–17:00
Admission: €17.50 (≥4 years); €5.50 (1-3 years); free (Museumkaart)
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Thrill-seekers head to SEC Survivals 20-28 October for treasure hunts, kids survival, and archery—fun for all ages.
When: Saturday 20 to Sunday 28 October 2018
Where: SEC Survivals Outdoor Park, Verlaatweg 2, Almere
Time: See website
Admission: From €9.50
On 26 October, families enjoy 'Friendship'-themed museum fun in Friesland from 17:00–21:00 for ages 4-12.
When: Friday 26 October 2018
Where: Various Friesland locations; see website
Time: 17:00–21:00
Admission: See website
13-21 October brings 'Craziness' to Arnhem with workshops, exhibitions, and a gnome forest in Park Sonsbeek.
When: Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 October 2018
Where: Various Arnhem locations; see website
Time: See website
Admission: Free – small fee; see website
Zwolle's massive kids event (15,000m²) from 25-28 October features bouncy castles, cinema, musicals, Lego, and more.
When: Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 October 2018
Where: IJsselhallen, Rieteweg 4, Zwolle
Time: 10:00–17:00
Admission: €14.50 (€12.50 online); free (0-3 years)
Bad weather? Craft with chestnuts, acorns, and pinecones at home.
Know more great outings for autumn holidays 2018? Share below, and I'll add them!
