2012 Amsterdam: Events and Festivals not to be missed

When in Amsterdam welcomes 2012. A year of opportunity, fun and excitement. Also a year of doomsday philosophy and bleak economic predictions for Europe. Amsterdam has weathered many an international storm during its history so I don't think 2012 is going to be any different.

So what to look forward to in 2012.

2012 Queens Day is on a Monday!
In the middle of winter the April 30 festival is the light at the end of the tunnel. Often referred to as the largest street party in the world, in 2012 Queensday (Koninginnedag) will be on a Monday. This means a long weekend of parties.

If you haven't already organised your stay in Amsterdam for this not to be missed event get to it now. Many of Amsterdam's hotels, and tour guides are heavily if not fully booked for this weekend. So get organised so as not to be disappointed.

European Football (Soccer) Championships. Euro 2012 dates for Amsterdam
Hosted in Ukraine and Poland and running from 8 June - 1 July, the Netherlands has drawn, again, a pool of death. Expect Amsterdam to be full 9/14/17 June with their pool matches. 14 June is another date not to be missed when the Dutch go head to head with their arch-rivals the Germans. Amsterdam is certain to be full of nervous tension for this much anticipated event.

If the Dutch are to survive the pool stage and reach the semi final stage, expect Amsterdam to be in the grip of football fever for the semi-final on 27 and 28 June. With the Final to be held on 1 July if anybody remembers the South African World Cup Holland v Brazil game, Amsterdam knows how to celebrate. Watch the youtube clip of what happened in Amsterdam in 1988 when the Dutch won. House boats sank under the weight of celebration!

                                     



Olympic Fever
The 2012 Summer Olympic will be held in London a stones throw from Amsterdam. 27 - 12 August are the dates for the Olympics and then 29 August to 9 September is the Paralympics. With International guests descending on this part of the world many are certain to visit Amsterdam pre and post games.

For people planning to fly into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport book your tickets early. Schiphol Airport is one of the largest and easiest to use in Western Europe so expect flight to be heavily booked from Olympic run-off.

For a full list of Amsterdam festivals see the IAmsterdam website

When in Amsterdam... Enjoy!