It’s been almost 750 years since fisherman reclaimed the mouth of Amstel. Amsterdam flourished during the 17th Century and the city entered a period known as the Dutch Golden age. Over the next century Amsterdam became a key global trade hub. The Dutch capital created the first official stock exchange, ranked number one in terms of wealth in the Western world.
© Amsterdam750
Amsterdam developed into a world leader in Art, Science and Literature during the centuries since inception. The city was once home to the likes of Rembrandt, Aelbert Cuyp Anne Frank and Johan Cruyff. The population in the 750 years since has exploded from 50,000 to around 1.1 million residents today.
Amsterdammers have seen World Wars, occupations, floods, riots and pilgrimages. The city remains a strategically important hub of trade and innovation. Present day Amsterdam remains significant in world affairs – it is one of the top financial centres and many organisations have established headquarters in this small province of North Holland.
The 750th anniversary of Amsterdam takes place in 2025, 27th October 2025 to be exact. To commemorate this special chapter there will be a year long build up to the anniversary. A city wide initiative has started involving the municipality, private organisations and charities to celebrate the birthday of our beloved Amsterdam. If there is one thing that Amsterdam knows what to do is throw a party – and guess what, you’re all invited!
The year long party will celebrate the wonderful and remarkable history of Amsterdam. A cultural programme is packed full of activities. Here are a handful announced so far:
SAIL 2025 will be a highlight of the calendar. The 10th edition of the tall ship extravaganza coincides with Amsterdam 750. An expected 300 plus ships will pass through the River IJ for 5 days of fun in Amsterdam. An estimated 2 million visitors will participate in this unique experience.
The Winter festival takes place at H’art Museum and includes concerts, films and family fun and runs. The festival will run from late December until early January.
The opening concert will be held at the 17,000 capacity Ziggo Dome on the 27th October. In 2025, the A10 ring road in Amsterdam goes car free and to celebrate this occasion, a huge party will take place. Amsterdam city archives will contribute to the festivities with a unique look into Amsterdammers between the 70s and the 90s, expect nostalgia and poignant photographs.
The Pulitzer Hotel is offering up extraordinary experiences in one of the suites to celebrate 750 years with canal views, a delicious breakfast in Restaurant Jansz and additional activities such as visiting local breweries and iconic museums.
Key cultural and religious centres are also on the agenda announced so far. De Nieuwe Kerk will open its doors and give people the chance to explore inside. Under the bridge is a thrilling concept, Brug 705 on Johan Huizingalaan 174 invites you to take part in workshops with dance, street art and sports.
The agenda also includes health and well-being activities too. You can enjoy a floating sauna, kayak or canoe in beautiful Sloterpas. The 50th anniversary of the TCS Amsterdam Marathon takes place on the 19th October. Runners will take in sights such as Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, Amstel and will start and finish at the historic Olympic stadium.
There will be a light festival food walk, Art below Zero and electrical fireworks at Museumplein. New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam is sure to be a memorable experience and this year during Ams750 it will be even more spectacular. National Tulip Day will take place during January and a night of celebration at Hotels and attendees will be able to visit special events taking place at the wonderful hotels of Amsterdam. Amsterdam In Concert will revel in the glorious past and present of the music scene of Amsterdam and take place at Het Concertgebouw.
The city will place emphasis on the future, with a 10 day event during “ToekomstTiendaagse” and neighbourhoods will come alive with parties and cultural events taking place in every district of Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Light Festival has confirmed they will have five commissioned artworks which will be placed in Sloterdijk, Noord, Weesp, Nieuw-West and Zuidoost. Partners include the likes of Heineken, Gassan, Rabobank, AT5, Waternet, Telegraaf, OBA (Amsterdam Public library.)
We shall see you at one (or all) of the unmissable events taking place!
