July in Amsterdam: Sun, Sounds & Seriously Good Vibes

02.07.2025

July in Amsterdam is buzzing with festivals, celebrations and more

Looking for the best things happening in Amsterdam this July? From colourful parades and buzzing food festivals to open-air gigs and cinema under the stars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained all month long.

Celebrate Culture and Community

For a real taste of Amsterdam’s diversity, don’t miss the Kwaku Festival running from 12 July to 3 August in Nelson Mandela Park. It’s a fantastic celebration of food, music and culture from all over the world – perfect for dancing and soaking up those summer vibes.

The famous Pride March on 26 July kicks off at Amstelveld and marches through the city to Vondelpark. There are also street parties, performances and the iconic canal parade, turning the whole city into a sea of colour.

Another standout is Keti Koti on 1 July, which marks the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Antilles. Join the Bigi Spikri parade in traditional dress from Waterlooplein to Oosterpark, followed by a remembrance ceremony and a full day of music at Museumplein.

Food, Drink and Open-Air Feasting

If you love food, TREK Festival at Amstelpark from 4 to 6 July is a must. Picture food trucks serving everything from sushi to vegan bites, with live music and theatre adding to the festival vibe. It’s casual, it’s tasty, and it’s the perfect way to spend a summer day.

Later in the month, the Amsterdam Terrassen Festival takes over Rembrandtpark from 24 to 27 July. Expect pop-up terraces from top local restaurants, summer cocktails, and tunes playing all day long. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re chasing a chilled drink or dancing till sunset.

Fancy exploring the city’s historic heart? The Wallen Festival on 5 and 6 July offers more than 70 events throughout the Red Light District, including food tastings, live music and unique workshops inside historic buildings and hidden spots. It’s a brilliant way to see a different side of the neighbourhood.

Music and Summer Performances

There’s music for every taste this July. The Vondelpark Open Air Theatre runs free weekend shows all summer long – with dance on Fridays, family shows on Saturdays, comedy on Saturday evenings and a mix of classical and pop on Sundays. Just turn up, pay what you can and enjoy.

De Parade is back at Martin Luther King Park from 25 July to 10 August with its iconic travelling theatre festival. You’ll find short, creative performances spanning theatre, dance and live music, alongside great food and drinks in a playful park setting.

If you’re in the mood for smaller-scale gigs, head to the waterfront terrace at Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ. Their Summer Terrace Concerts happen every Friday to Sunday with DJ sets before and after intimate live performances – perfect for a laid-back summer evening by the water.

Big Festival Energy

Festival season is in full swing, with something happening almost every weekend. From Guilty Pleasure and Vunzige Deuntjes to Verknipt, Macumba and No Art, there’s plenty on offer if you’re after basslines and big energy.

The Milkshake Festival on 26 and 27 July at Westerpark is a real highlight – an inclusive celebration of love, music and identity with outrageously fun outfits, great acts and a brilliant crowd.

If you’re into electronic music, don’t miss Awakenings or Dekmantel, which kicks off on 30 July and runs into August with a world-class line-up and serious dance credentials.

Cinema and Summer Nights

Tuesday nights are made for Films With a View at Pllek. This beloved open-air cinema runs until September, screening films by the water with headphones, deck chairs and sunset views. Just grab your ticket, check the weather, and settle in for a film under the stars.

As part of Pride Week, there’s also free open-air cinema popping up at Mercatorplein and Gershwinplein on 31 July and 1 August. With 400 seats, it’s a lovely way to wind down after a long day in the sun.

And for something a bit unexpected, Artis Summer Nights return every Saturday. Amsterdam’s zoo stays open late with live music, drinks and a unique chance to wander through the park after dark. It’s perfect for families, couples or just anyone who fancies a magical evening among the animals.