What to Do in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam This October

30.09.2026

Make the Most of Autumn With Music, Markets, Culture and Seasonal Events

October brings a new season of events and experiences to Apeldoorn and Amsterdam.

Whether students want to experience local culture, discover somewhere new or spend time with friends, here are some highlights to add to the October calendar.

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam

October begins on a festive note in Apeldoorn, where Apeldoorn's Oktoberfest takes place at Zwitsal Apeldoorn on Friday, 2 October.

Running from 17:00-23:00, the event brings its own interpretation of the traditional Munich celebration to the Zwitsalterrein.

The celebrations continue in Amsterdam, where Oktoberfest at Gollem's Proeflokaal takes place on 3 and 4 October. Located on Overtoom, the event features German-inspired food and festivities, including bratwurst, schnitzels and pretzels, with live Schlager music on Saturday.

Watch the action on Amsterdam's canals

Amsterdam offers an active event on Saturday, 10 October, when more than 100 rowing boats are set to take part in the Canal Race.

The race follows a 22-25 km route through Amsterdam's waterways, offering spectators plenty of opportunities to follow the action from bridges and quays around the city. The start and finish at the Olympic Stadium provide another option for those hoping to watch the competition.

For students who have become familiar with Amsterdam's canals, the event offers a different perspective on one of the city's most recognisable features.

Discover local talent in Apeldoorn

Culture takes centre stage in Apeldoorn on Sunday, 11 October, when Open Podium comes to Theater Orpheus.

The free event provides a platform for amateur performers from Apeldoorn, Brummen, Lochem, Voorst and Zutphen.

Three amateur acts are given 30 minutes on stage during each edition of the wider programme. The Apeldoorn event begins at 15:00 and is free to attend, with entrance via Restaurant O55 on the Loolaan side of Theater Orpheus.

Spend an autumn day exploring Amsterdam's markets

For those in search of a more relaxed weekend activity, Amsterdam's October calendar includes several markets across the city.

Sunday Market at Westergas takes place on 4 October, followed by both Pure Markt at Amstelpark and Museum Market at Museumplein on 11 October.

Sunday Market moves to Rokin on 18 October, while Pure Markt takes place at Park Frankendael on 25 October.

Students interested in second-hand shopping can also visit IJ-Hallen on 10 and 11 October. Another edition begins on 31 October and continues into 1 November.

Explore contemporary art

Students interested in contemporary art can visit the Stedelijk Museum for an exhibition dedicated to Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama. The exhibition includes one of the artist's mirror rooms, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.

The exhibition provides another option for those looking for an indoor activity.

Experience Amsterdam Dance Event

Music takes over the capital with Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE).

The month's programme includes KI/KI 5 Hours at Ziggo Dome on 22 and 23 October, while Audio Obscura x ADE and DGTL run from 22 to 25 October.

Drumcode x Awakenings takes place on 22 and 23 October, while Into the Woods runs on 23 and 24 October. Other events include ADE Bajes from 23 to 25 October, as well as Elrow Amsterdam and ADE × Wereldmuseum: DISCO I'm Coming Out on 23 October.

On 24 October, the programme includes 909 X Loveland, Mystic Garden Festival, Dockyard Festival and AMF at Johan Cruijff ArenA.

Celebrate Halloween with Wittenborg in Apeldoorn

Towards the end of the month, students in Apeldoorn can get into the Halloween spirit with Wittenborg's Halloween Party.

Students can dress up and enjoy music by DJ Sean, drinks, and snacks, with a Best Costume Award adding friendly competition to the festivities.

Get into the Halloween spirit in Amsterdam

Amsterdam also rounds off October with Halloween events on Saturday, 31 October.

The 17th edition of Amsterdam Halloween takes place at WesterUnie / Westerweelde Amsterdam and features immersive horror experiences and costume contests.

Music enthusiasts can also attend Afrobeats vs Amapiano: Halloween Edition at Club Noir Amsterdam on the same date. The themed club night provides another option for those looking to celebrate Halloween in the city.