Amsterdam News

Amsterdam is a vibrant, international city and every week there is at least one event attractive to visitors from outside the country. Here, we present a list of upcoming events in the near future. From gigs and plays to music and film festivals, this page is your guide to what's coming up in Amsterdam in the next few days. Of course, you can always check our list of Amsterdam Newspapers to find additional information, while for up to date news on the Amsterdam coffeeshop policy visit our dedicated Coffeeshop News page. If you're planning a little more in advance, our What's On section gives an agenda of events in the coming month, or you can visit our Annual Events page to find out about all the major regular events that happen in Amsterdam each year.

17/04/2012
The Optical Illusion Museum Closed
The art museum had to close on April 17, 2012 because of the financial problems of the booksellers Scheltema/Selexyz, where the museum has been located. The museum owners make an effort to find another location for their collection. You shall be informed as it happens. The Optical Illusion Museum is closed.

08/01/2012
The University of Sioux Falls Concert Chorale
A music ensemble that has toured worldwide including America and high profile locations in Europe such as St. Mark's Cathedral in Venice and even Vatican City, the American based University of Sioux Falls Concert Chorale arrives in Amsterdam for a concert in the Begijnhof's English Reformed Church, found just off Spui. Young conductor David DeHoogh-Kliewer will lead the group through a selection of spiritual music as well as folk songs from America. The concert begins at 1pm this coming Tuesday 10 January and entrance is free.
http://www.ercadam.nl

14/12/2011
Dinner in Front of The Night Watch
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is currently running a very special competition. Due to an innovative new lighting system for this Rembrandt masterpiece, the Rijksmuseum is offering the chance for a lucky couple to win a dinner date with the Night Watch as your backdrop. To enter, simply send the museum an image of a unique version of this classic painting you possess, whether it be a reproduction or a whacky interpretation. Entries should be sent tonightwatch@rijksmuseum.nl  by 31 December stating your name and address.
www.rijksmuseum.nl

06/12/2011
Dancing on the Edge
This dance and theatre festival focuses on promoting the arts and culture of Amsterdam's Middle eastern residents. From Tuesday 6 December to Sunday 11 December, the festival organises dance and theatre events as well as multimedia installations in a number of locations split between Amsterdam and Utrecht. Tickets for each event in the festival are purchased separately and can be found online along with the festival's full agenda.
www.dancingontheedge.nl

23/11/2011
Awakenings Weekender
On Friday 25 and Saturday 26 November this weekend Westergasfabriek, to the west of Amsterdam's city centre, plays host to two nights of techno for all the city's club kids. Awakenings is the largest techno organisation in the Netherlands, and this Autumn event may be smaller than the big Summer bash, but it is still perfectly formed for an excellent weekend of dancing to top international DJs. Doors are open from 10pm to 8am and tickets can be purchased via the Awakenings website: www.awakenings.nl

18/11/2011
Cannabis Cup, Amsterdam
M aybe the world's, most high profile event for marijuana growers, distributors and enthusiasts opens its doors this Sunday 20 November at the Borchland venue, close to Amsterdam ArenA at Borchlandweg 6–12. Entry lines can be long, so savvy visitors may want to show up for pre-registration at the venue on Saturday 19 November from noon to 6pm.

16/11/2011
International Van Wassenaer Competition
This weekend, from Friday 18 November to Sunday 20 November, the Muziekgebouw aan 't IJ, just between Central Station and the Passenger Terminal on Piet Heinkade 1, plays host to the International Van Wassenaer Competition. This competition and festival presents the best Early Music talent from the Netherlands and beyond. With young people playing very old, historical music this is certainly a unique experience for both music and history lovers.
www.vanwassenaerconcours.nl

14/11/2011
International Documentary Film Festival
This week, the International Documentary Film Festival kicks off in Amsterdam's cinemas and theatres. This truly international event showcases documentaries from all around the world and runs from 16–27 November in Pathé Tuschinski, Pathé de Munt, the Amsterdam Public Library and the Brakke Grond theatre. The ticket sales point is open all this week on Rembrandtplein and tickets can also be bought online.
www.idfa.nl