Amsterdam Light Festival with Kids: Can You Go?

What to do with children during the Light Festival?

You can discover the Light Festival in different ways. For young children, a canal cruise is ideal — nice and warm with minimal walking. Older children can more easily walk or cycle a stretch.

Family-friendly canal cruise

A canal cruise during the Light Festival in Amsterdam is ideal for children because it offers a warm and comfortable experience. Children do not have to walk much, preventing fatigue. During the trip they can snuggle up and enjoy the beautiful light artworks along the canals without worrying about the cold. This makes it a relaxing and family-friendly activity.

Take a walk

Children can view the light artworks up close, discover details and truly immerse themselves in the magic of the illuminations. This stimulates their curiosity and creativity. Moreover, it is a healthy activity that encourages children to be active and explore the city.

Cycling through the city

A cycling tour during the Light Festival in Amsterdam is ideal for families with children. It offers active involvement, freedom to explore at your own pace, an exciting adventure in the dark, family fun and efficiency. Make sure to bring suitable lighting and equipment for safety. This way your family can fully enjoy the festival.

Food and drinks during the Amsterdam Light Festival

Having food and drinks during the Light Festival is ideal with children because it offers convenience and relaxation. During the Light Festival in Amsterdam you can also enjoy food and drinks, both on the waterfront and on the water. Various packages are available, such as the drinks boat or BBQ boat, where you can dine while admiring the light artworks. Alternatively, you can visit one of the cosy cafés or restaurants to enjoy delicious meals and drinks. This adds a culinary element to your festival experience.

Practical information ALF

Here is all the practical information about the Light Festival, edition 12:

• Date: From 30 November to 21 January.
• Location: The festival takes place in the centre of Amsterdam.
• Theme: The theme of this edition is ‘technology and AI’.
• Times: The artworks can be admired from 17:00.
• Closing time: The light artworks are switched off between 22:00 and 23:00.

Enjoy your visit!

An evening, day trip or weekend in Amsterdam

The Light Festival in Amsterdam primarily takes place in the evening, making it ideal for an evening out in Amsterdam. If you are travelling from further away, it can certainly be worthwhile to make a day trip or weekend of it, also with children. That way you can enjoy the festival experience in a relaxed and unhurried way. Moreover, it gives you the chance to also explore other attractions and sights in Amsterdam and make a complete outing of it.