Father's Day
2023-06-18 | Netherlands, Netherlands
While Father’s Day (Vaderdag) may not be as famous as Mother’s Day, it definitely does put the dads in the spotlight. In the Netherlands, dads might be surprised with breakfast in bed or other little gifts from their children. And the best part? They get an excuse to take the day off from doing any housework!
READ MORE |Becoming a father? Here’s everything you need to know about paternity leave in the Netherlands in 2022

June solstice
2023-06-21 | Netherlands, Netherlands
June solstice, also known as summer solstice or midsummer, celebrates the longest day of the year. Sounds like a great excuse to have your garden party until late in the evening, no?
READ MORE | It’s the longest day of the year! And it’ll be a hot one too

The next STAP subsidy round opens soon! (And third time's the charm!)
2023-07-03 10:00 (Europe/Amsterdam) | Online
Helaas, maybe you missed the previous two STAP rounds this year? Don’t worry, because applications will soon be opening for the third round this year, on July 3!
First things first: what’s a STAP budget? (And why do you need it in your life ASAP?)
The STAP budget is a government subsidy of up to €1000 intended to give employees and job seekers in the Dutch labour market all the skills they need to seriously impress an employer. 💪
From marketing classes to digital leadership, to a whole host of other professional skills that’ll have your CV practically writing itself, this budget will cover the tools you need to climb that career ladder.
If you’re over 18 years of age, haven’t yet applied for the STAP budget this year, and are linked to the Dutch labour market… it’s time to send in your application!
Oh, and did we mention that speed is of the essence? 👀 The STAP budget is granted to a limited number of applications, so only a certain number of lucky ducks manage to get it. Make sure you’re one of them by applying on July 3 at 10 AM sharp!
Your next career break is calling out to you
Can’t figure out what course is going to magically whisk you into Employee of the Month™️? Fret not, because Growth Tribe‘s huge library of courses (all covered by the STAP budget, natuurlijk 😉) is here to save the day.
That sounds like a sweet deal to us: letting Growth Tribe do the heavy lifting on overhauling your digital skills, whilst the Dutch government picks up the cheque!
Sign me up! When and where?
⏰ When? July 3, 2023 (at 10 AM sharp!)
🔍 Where? On the UWV’s online STAP portal
🤔 How? Choose a course that speaks to your soul — but remember to pre-register with Growth Tribe before applying for your STAP budget

Something for the whole family! Let your kids run wild at Wereldmuseum Leiden's Animal Academy
2023-07-28 10:00 - 2023-10-29 17:00 | Wereldmuseum Leiden
Do you have kids bouncing off the walls at home? Aren’t they so cute? (Do you need somewhere to entertain them during the autumn holidays? 👀) Look no further, Wereldmuseum Leiden’s DierenAcademie exhibit is fun for children and parents alike!
With a series of exciting rooms focusing on specific animals, the DierenAcademie (Animal Academy) exhibit allows your children to run between interactive exercises and learn from the world’s beautiful creatures.
Teach (and tire out) your children
As soon as you walk into this colourful exhibition, the games begin. Your children are free to interact with almost every element of the exhibit. In fact, it’s encouraged.
They are welcome to hop like a kangaroo, howl like a wolf, hide like a leopard, or even push a giant ball of “dung” like a dung beetle! This makes for some great photo ops — but also for some excellent learning experiences. 🐅
For children and parents alike
Not only is this exhibit packed with fun experiences for children, but also for the adults in attendance! Yes, your child is extremely cute when wearing a fake wolf tail, but the exhibit offers more than just some great “awww” moments.
The DierenAcademie also looks to point to the bigger picture — how we as humans interact with our environment, and what can we learn from the animal kingdom?
I’m in! When, where, and how?
Ready to grab your kids and head out the door? Great! Let’s tell you all you need to know 👇:
⏰ When? The DierenAcademie exhibit takes place until October 29, 2023 and is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10 AM and 5 PM.
🌎 Where? Wereldmuseum Leiden, Steenstraat 1, 2312 BS Leiden.
💳💥 How? Easy! You can either book your tickets online, or simply head to the ticket desk at the museum’s entrance.
Ready to let your kids run wild? Wereldmuseum Leiden will see you there!

Wereldmuseum Leiden's mind-bending maps exhibit
2023-08-23 10:00 - 2023-10-29 17:00 | Wereldmuseum Leiden
Need a place for a great first date? Or perhaps somewhere to show off to your friends? Point your compass towards Wereldmuseum Leiden’s latest exhibit!
When you hear the word “map”, you probably think of a piece of paper depicting the geography of some country — but what if we told you a map can actually blow your mind?
Wereldmuseum Leiden’s latest exhibit, Maps: navigate and manipulate, challenges the boundaries of what you may think a map is, presenting its visitors with maps you never thought could exist.
Navigate the possibilities of cartography
A map of Utopia? Of course, that’s a thing! A map of an autistic mind? Yep, they’ve got it. A map of time itself? You’ll find it down the hall and to the right.
To add to the spectacle, the museum has included contemporary art installations that certainly add to the mind-blowing nature of the exhibit.
The exhibit is a spectacle as soon as you walk in! Image: DutchReview
Point me in the right direction! How can I see this?
Ready to grab your favourite history nerd or friend in need of some brain-melting? Great! Here’s where your journey begins:
🌎 Where? Wereldmuseum Leiden, Steenstraat 1, 2312 BS Leiden
⏰ When? Wereldmuseum Leiden is open between 10 AM and 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. The exhibit will be on view until October 29, 2023.
💳💥 How? Simply head to the tickets page and hit that button! Otherwise, you can always buy tickets at the front desk.
Will you be heading to this exhibit? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Pasar Leiden: Indonesian Festival for young and old
2023-08-26 12:00 - 22:00 | Cultuurplein Lammermarkt in Leiden, Lammermarkt 20P, Leiden, 2312 CW, Netherlands
Immerse yourself in Indonesian culture and entertainment while here in the Netherlands.
If you’re looking for something unique to do on August 26, where you can also take the kids, why not drag them along to Pasar Leiden on Lammermarkt so you all have a good time.
Entertain the kinderen with a kite-making workshop or with books and games by Joyce de Vries, while you enjoy some cocktails and listen to some good music. 🍹
A day filled with live performances, culture and borrelen. Who could be happier? Well, you will be when you find out it’s free!
Don’t forget your wallet at home, however, because there will be 30-40 food, lifestyle, and culture stalls for you to explore.
When, where, and how?
📅 When? Saturday, August 26, from 12 PM to 10 PM.
📍 Where? Cultuurplein Lammermarkt in Leiden
❓ How? Just walk right in — it’s free!
Will you be attending this exciting festival? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Explore luxury apartments at Hyde Park's Summer Open House and find your dream home
2023-08-28 10:00 - 2023-09-02 17:00 | Hyde Park House, Planetenweg 5, Hoofddorp, North-Holland, Netherlands
Picture an apartment that’s stylish, modern, and just right for you. Well, look no further than a property in Hyde Park, and you’ll see it’s everything you imagined. 🤩
Your imagination won’t have to do all the work, though. During the Summer Open House days at Hyde Park House, you can watch your vision come to life.
Get a look inside your future home
The sale of the Knightsbridge block at Hyde Park is in full swing. From studio apartments to spacious penthouses, your next investment is just around the corner.
At the Summer Open House days, you can admire the brilliant model homes available with your very own eyes (and start planning where you’d put your furniture 👀).
READ MORE | Curious about modern living in the Amsterdam area? Visit the Hyde Park House
You’ll watch your housing dreams come to life during your discovery of different floor plans, architectural styles, and unique finishes available to match your personality.
Ask your burning questions
While you’re touring the showroom and model homes, you’re bound to think of a question or two.
All those questions flooding your brain about financing, amenities, and anything else you think of will be answered by Hyde Park’s handy team of experts. They’ll help and guide you in making the best decision in your exciting new venture.
When, where, and how?
⏰ When? From Monday, August 28 until Saturday, September 2
Monday from 10 AM until 5 PM
Tuesday-Thursday from 10 AM until 7 PM
Friday & Saturday from 10 AM until 5 PM
🔎 Where? At Hyde Park House on Planetenweg 5 in Hoofddorp.
🤔 How? Easy peasy — just register on Hyde Park’s website and show up!
Will you be attending? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Curious about getting a degree online? Take the first step at IU's FREE webinar
2023-09-13 18:00 - 18:45 | Online
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of university studies, fully online and remotely? Or do you want to take your career to the next level entirely at your own pace? Then International University of Applied Sciences (IU) could be a fit for you!

So you’re curious about getting an online degree but don’t know where to start? Well, lucky for you, the experts of IU are ready to help out — at their FREE Webinar on September 13!
Explore the options for online education
Whether you’re interested in completing a bachelor’s, master’s or MBA degree, it’s worth taking the time to get all your information right. ✍️
During IU’s webinar, you’ll have a chance to learn all about their diverse range of online study programs, the innovative online campus experience, and all the other perks that come with following an online degree.
Got some burning questions? Geen problem! During the live Q&A session, IU’s experts will be there to provide you with all the answers.
An online degree that is internationally recognised
All of IU’s degree programmes adhere to both German academic standards and international ones. This means that their degrees and the ECTS points earned in them are internationally recognised (yup, also in the Netherlands!). 💪
Ready to go for it? Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the limitless possibilities of online education!
Where? When? How?
📍 Where? From the comfort of your home (or wherever else you may be). In short: online!
⏰ When? On Wednesday, 13 September, from 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM.
🔎 How? By signing up for the event via this link.

Try out language courses for FREE and determine your level at UvA Talen’s Open Evening
2023-09-14 17:45 - 20:15 | UvA Talen’s Office, Roetersstraat 25, Amsterdam, 1018WB
Do you want to learn Dutch so that you can easily order at a restaurant in the Netherlands? Or do you want to learn a whole new language to impress others?
If you’re struggling to decide where to start with learning a language (or which language to even learn!), UvA Talen can help you make a decision with an Open Evening that lets you take a trial lesson for FREE.
What’s in store if you attend UvA Talen’s Open Evening? Language workshops in eight different languages, free language intakes to determine your language level, staff to answer your questions, UvA Talen merchandise, and extra discounts.
Choose from a variety of language workshops
If you have a love for learning languages and just can’t decide which one will be your next challenge, geen probleem.
The whole point of the event is that you are given the opportunity to have a taste of your options. Yep, go ahead, you can attend more than one language workshop taking place throughout the Open Evening. Wat leuk!
How does it work? You will have the option of attending two different workshops within two different time slots (18:15-18:45 and 19:15-19:45).
Each language workshop is 20 to 30 minutes long and will let you experience what it’s like to attend one of UvA Talen’s group courses or individual courses.
So, what’s on the menu? You can dig into languages such as:

🇳🇱 Dutch (beginners and intermediate levels)
🇬🇧 English (intermediate and fluency levels)
🇯🇵 Japanese (beginners)
🇪🇸 Spanish (beginners)
🇫🇷 French (beginners)
🇨🇳 Chinese (beginners)
🇦🇪 Arabic (beginners)
🇮🇹 Italian (beginners)

And that’s not all, in between these workshops and after 19:45, you will also have the opportunity to determine your language level.
Let’s learn! When, where, and how?
📆 When? Thursday, 14 September, from 5:45 PM to 8:10 PM
📍 Where? UvA Talen’s Office, Roetersstraat 25, 1018 WB Amsterdam
📋 How? Easy peasy! Sign up here.
Ready to take a free trial lesson with UvA Talen? Add the event to your calendar!

Real estate with a side of haute cuisine: Elevate your home-buying journey at this unique event
2023-09-20 19:00 - 23:00 | Marriott Hotel Amsterdam, 12 Stadhouderskade, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Buying a home in the Netherlands is as exciting as it is nerve-racking. But now, it’s time to elevate your home-buying journey with the help of experienced experts.
How? At How to Buy a.House’s exclusive event in Amsterdam. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty!
Let’s talk meals, mortgages, and markets!
Yes, you read that right: there will be meals! Come to the event hungry, both for food and knowledge — and leave perfectly satiated. Lekker! 😉
While you enjoy a scrumptious 5-course dinner, a table-switching format will give you the chance to talk to experienced professionals from the real estate and finance industry.
You can make use of their time to ask your most burning questions, gain exclusive insight into the Dutch housing market, and get advice that is tailored to your specific situation.
Who will be there?
Let’s get more specific — who can you expect to see at this event?
Wouter Hofstee Holtrop is a distinguished partner at the largest mortgage advisory firm in the Netherlands, Expat Mortgages. With 15 years of experience under his belt, he will bring you some of the finest insights into all things home financing! ⚡️
The real estate experts present will be Barry Burgemeester and Tim Wormsbecher — both of whom understand the unique challenge of buying a house as an expat in the Netherlands and will happily answer all your questions.
Besides them, you’ll find some of the Netherlands’ best investment professionals (David Bellingham), legal experts (Karin Brons), bankers (Jocelyn Muller), and interior designers (Anja Kroon)!
When, where, how?
Ready to attend? Whether it’s for the delicious food or for the real estate knowledge — it’ll be worth it! Here’s all you need to know. 👇
⏰ When? On Wednesday, 20 September, between 7 PM and 11 PM!
📍 Where? At the stunning Marriott Hotel in Amsterdam, located at 12 Stadhouderskade 1054 ES Amsterdam.
🔎 How? By buying a ticket on Eventbrite!

3rd Oktober (Festival in Leiden)
2023-10-03 | Netherlands, Netherlands
If you wish to enjoy an extra day of celebrations this year, head to Leiden on October 3. You’ll find the bars and streets filled with people drinking, dancing, enjoying a traditional stew, and stuffing themselves with haring. To celebrate Leiden’s liberation from the Spanish in 1574, the lucky Leidenaars get the day off work if this festival falls on a weekday. And of course, it wouldn’t be a proper celebration without a parade!
READ MORE | Leids Ontzet: What’s there to do on October 2 – 3 in Leiden?

Immunowars Festival: The Most Infectious Festival
2023-10-07 14:00 - 2023-10-08 01:00 | Pesthuis, Pesthuislaan 7, Leiden, 2333BA, Netherlands
Brought to you by the same start-up responsible for bringing us the strategic board game ImmunoWars, this disease-themed bash puts the fun in funeral.
The time has come to unleash that inner mad scientist or demented nurse who’s just itching to come out of you; the dress code this year is “black and white”, so festival guests will be sporting eerie lab coats in either colour for the occasion. 💉
The Most Infectious Festival also has its own Game Arena, as well as a Science Plaza full of snazzy scientific inventions where you can geek out to your heart’s content.
And, for those of us who are partial to having a boogie, you’ll be pleased to hear that a range of artists across two different music stages — Kiwi Club, Mau’s Acid Machine, Silicon Oxide, to name a few — are providing beats for your shimmying pleasure all evening.
On top of that, there will be plenty of food trucks lined up to grant you enough succulent snacks for you to eat your heart out — alongside a wide variety of delicious drinks that are simply to die for. 🤤

Considering the link to scientific research, it should come as no surprise that this day (and night) of games, music, and booze-filled festivities is taking place beside the Naturalis Biodiversity Center museum in Leiden.
Rain or shine, the venue accommodates all weather-related curveballs; it has a huge outdoor courtyard for you to soak up rays, as well as huge indoor spaces if you, well, don’t want to get soaked.

Learn how to buy a house in the Netherlands at this webinar!
2023-10-11 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
The idea of buying a house seems pretty simple — if you have the money, you place a bid and seal the deal, right? Believe it or not, there’s a lot you should know before you make the big decision to become a homeowner in the Netherlands.
Thankfully, you can learn all you need to know about the process of getting a mortgage and buying a house as an international in the Netherlands at this online event.
Expat Mortgage’s Michel Kion will walk you through the basic steps of finding and buying your dream home in the Netherlands.
What will be covered?
This webinar will answer your burning questions about:
👨‍👦‍👦 Your eligibility for a Dutch mortgage
💶 Factors that banks will consider when you apply for a loan
🤔 Your mortgage options
🤓 A calculation of your potential Dutch mortgage
The webinar will begin with a breakdown of these topics for 30-40 minutes before audience members are free to ask the mortgage expert any questions they have about their mortgage journey.
I’m in! Tell me when and where
The event takes place online, so no need to leave your couch. All you need to do is:
✍🏻 Register for the event using this link.
⏰ Be ready to tune in at 13:00 on Wednesday, 11 October. The workshop will end at around 14:30.
Do you have more questions for the experts at Expat Mortgages?
With team members who are trained in how to help internationals tackle the Dutch mortgage process, they are happy to speak with you and work through your personal situation during a completely free consultation.
Simply check your calendar and book a timeslot. 💪
Unable to make this webinar? Geen probleem! Check out Expat Mortgage’s upcoming events to find one that suits your calendar.
Will you be in attendance? Go get ’em!

Looking to buy a home in the Amsterdam Area? Check out Hyde Park's expat open house!
2023-10-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Hyde Park House, Planetenweg 5, Hoofddorp, North-Holland, Netherlands
Are you trying to buy your very own home in the Netherlands near Amsterdam? Pssst… we have a lead for you: in Hoofddorp, Hyde Park is building 3,800 brand-spanking-new apartments! 🗝️
Hyde Park will be a state-of-the-art city district in Hoofddorp with international allure. Curious to learn more? You can!
Hyde Park’s expat open house
At Hyde Park’s special expat open house, you can learn all about their current offer: the luxurious apartments in Knightsbridge Three.
While sales advisors will show you around the showroom and the model homes, expat mortgage specialists will be present to educate you on topics such as “how to finance a new build at Hyde Park?” and “how to buy an investment property at Hyde Park?”
So, use this unique chance to get all your questions answered — about Hyde Park, buying a house, and arranging your financing for it! 🌟
When, where, and how?
⏰ When? On Thursday, 12 October, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.
🔎 Where? At Hyde Park House on Planetenweg 5 in Hoofddorp.
🤔 How? By simply signing up on Hyde Park’s website!

Don't miss the Netherlands' biggest circus festival!
2023-10-13 - 2023-10-22 | Spoorpark Tilburg, Spoorpark 1, Tilburg, 5038 LS, Netherlands
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, circus enthusiasts of all ages, get ready to be amazed — because the Netherlands’ biggest circus festival has just kicked off in Tilburg. 🎪
The unique universe of Festival Circolo can be visited from October 13 to 22, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this. If you’re thinking of awe-inspiring acts, lekkere food trucks, and extraordinary people, you’re entirely on the right track!
Ten days of circus extravaganza in the heart of Tilburg
For ten days straight, Tilburg’s Spoorpark is hosting circus tents, food trucks, playgrounds and an outdoor stage where daily performances can be seen for free. Hoera!
With a greatly varied programme, the 2023 edition of Festival Circolo is bringing you extraordinary performances by extraordinary people from around the globe. 🌎

Whether you attend individual shows or get a full festival pass is up to you, but either way, prepare to be on the edge of your seats.
You’ll see world-class performers do what they’re most passionate about: showcasing their jaw-dropping talents from circus to theatre, dance, music, design, visual arts and everything in between. 🤩
Tell me more!
Ready to dive head-first into the magic? Here’s how! 🪄
📍 Where? At Tilburg’s Spoorpark, just a 10-minute walk from the station.
🗓️ When? From October 13 to 22!
🔎 How? Easy-peasy, just buy a ticket online. (And pssttt… anyone aged 26 or younger will get a 50% discount!)

Will you be checking out Festival Circolo? We’ll see you there!

Is it alive? Don't miss this unique art exhibition in Tilburg
2023-10-14 - 2024-04-07 | TextielMuseum, Goirkestraat 96, Tilburg, North Brabant, 5046GN, Netherlands
Looking for a unique artistic experience that will satisfy your cultural craving? Look no further than TextielMuseum’s newest exhibition!
The “Is it alive?” exhibition at the TextielMuseum in Tilburg showcases a unique mix of innovation, textiles, technology and art — inspired by life.
What does this mean, you ask? Well, the exhibition is a unique interpretation of all that is living — in which artists and designers come together to showcase artwork that uses technology to reproduce movements and processes from nature. 🍃
Sounds abstract? One of the artists explains it in this way: “If you look closely at everything around us, how things in nature are constructed — it’s so complicated and so logical — it makes you wonder if nature is not the high-tech part in our world.”
Living art — and you can be a part of it!
In “Is it alive?”, visitors can dive into the worlds of textiles, technology, and nature — while learning about their surprising interconnections and similarities.
It features, among others, a never-seen-before installation by artist duo DRIFT, “living architecture” by Philip Beesley and interactive works by Bart Hess. Trust us, you don’t want to miss it!

When, where, how?
Ready to explore the unique art installations at the TextielMuseum? Here are all the details you need to know!
Where? At the wonderful TextielMuseum in Tilburg.
When? From 14 October 2023 until 7 April 2024!
How? Easy! Just get your tickets online. 👩‍💻
Will you be in attendance? We’ll see you there!

Art alert! Enjoy the work of this Renaissance artist at a unique festival
2023-10-20 11:00 - 2024-01-14 18:00 | Museum Leuven, Leopold Vanderkelenstraat 28, Leuven, 3000, Belgium
Want to experience a fresh take on a precious piece of history? Check out this Dieric Bouts exhibition at Leuven’s “New Horizons” festival!
Mysterious, evasive, and rich — those are just some of the adjectives used to describe Bouts’ hauntingly beautiful, timeless works of art. 🖼
A Renaissance artist, Bouts was born in Haarlem and used the urban renewal experienced in Leuven, Belgium, as inspiration for his varied and dynamic masterpieces. 🎨
Though the Flemish artist was an esteemed commander of the paintbrush back in the 1400s, over five centuries later, his captivating artwork still holds true. 🖌
As part of the exhibition, titled “Dieric Bouts. Creator of Images”, visitors can reflect on his work with a “totally new perspective”, and we’re ready for it to give us goosebumps! ✨
Dieric Bouts reimagined
Back in the day, Bouts was exploring “new horizons” himself — and the producers of the “New Horizons” city festival certainly are too.
Running from October through January, the exhibition offers extensive, reimagined versions of the Dutch painter’s body of work.
How are they doing this exactly? There will be sports photographers, filmmakers and game developers to spice up Bouts’ art with a “radical confrontation with today’s visual culture”. Yup, sign us up! 🙋‍♀️

When, where, how?
Here’s what to know and where to go if you want to experience this mind-bending exhibition:
📍Where? The magnificent Museum Leuven (M Leuven) in Belgium
🗓When? From October 20, 2023, to January 14, 2024
🤔How? It’s simple, book your tickets online in advance here!
Are you going to book your tickets ASAP? Join the club!

End the autumn break in style at Wereldmuseum Leiden’s Animal Academy celebration!
2023-10-22 10:00 - 17:00 | Wereld Museum Leiden, Steenstraat 1, 2312 BS Leiden
Got kids? Need to entertain them? Wereldmuseum Leiden is hosting the party of the season to celebrate the closing of their Animal Academy — and it’s not something you or your kids will want to miss!
The beloved DierenAcademie (Animal Academy) exhibition will be closing its doors on October 29 after a successful stint at the beloved Wereldmuseum Leiden, and it will be going out in style.
On October 22, you and your children can attend their Autumn Holiday Prom, where you can enjoy the DierenAcademie exhibition as well as a great party.🕺
Fun for the whole family
So, what’s in store for the family? On October 22, all the animals from the DierenAcademie will join the party to celebrate the end of this wonderful exhibition.
READ MORE | Let your kids run wild this autumn break at Wereldmuseum Leiden’s Animal Academy!
And they won’t be the only guests of honour. Forest Ranger Tim and Iven Cudogham from Anansi de Spin will join this big bash. Guaranteed to be fun for adults and little ones alike, it’ll be a day that the family won’t want to miss.
On top of this, there will be an array of activities for parents and children to enjoy together, such as:
💄 A trip to the makeup salon,
🙋‍♂️ The Big Animal Quiz,
📖 A reading performance by Iven Cudogham,
🐰 Making an animal mask workshop!
Learn, play, entertain, tire out your kids — and maybe paint your face like a cheetah while you’re at it! 🐆
How can we snag tickets?
Ready to bring your kids their first-ever prom? Here’s all you need to know:
⏰ When? The big party will happen on Sunday, October 22, right at the DierenAcademie.
🌎 Where? Wereldmuseum Leiden, Steenstraat 1 2312 BS Leiden
💸 How? You can book your tickets online, or if you have a holiday pass, you can just get your tickets right at the counter.
Ready to let your kids run wild? Wereldmuseum Leiden will see you there!

Grab your tickets, the Leiden International Film Festival is here!
2023-10-26 08:00 - 2023-11-05 23:30 | Trianon Cinema, Breestraat 31, Leiden, 2311 CH, Netherlands
Time to unleash that inner film buff and grab the popcorn because the 18th edition of the Leiden International Film Festival is ready to welcome you all! 🎉
Whether you’re an avid cinephile or just want to unwind in front of some of this year’s best films, LIFF puts a spotlight on all the independent, up-and-coming, extraordinary filmmakers for your viewing pleasure. 🍿
Trust us, this is one festival you don’t want to miss out on! This 11-day screening extravaganza will show you tons of hidden gems between October 26 and November 5, 2023. 🎬
A fan of action? Fond of period dramas? Looking for something a bit more “indie”? LIFF offers something for everyone! These show-stoppers come in all different genres. Simply pick your faves and rock up!
Let’s get this show on the road! How can I join?
📍 Where? The venue is spread across three different cinemas in Leiden, at the Trianon Cinema (Breestraat 31, 2311 CH Leiden), the Kijkhuis Cinema (Vrouwenkerksteeg 10, 2312 WS Leiden), and the Lido Cinema (Steenstraat 39, 2312 BV Leiden).
🗓 When? The LIFF festival will take place from October 26 to November 5, 2023. The entire film program can be found here.
🎟 How? Tickets can be purchased digitally using this link beforehand, or you can buy tickets via the QR codes available at the cinema venues (provided there are still tickets left).

Halloween
2023-10-31
If you’re eager to go trick or treating on All Hallow’s Eve, you will probably be disappointed by the weird looks you’ll get from your Dutch neighbours. While Halloween is not really a big thing in the Netherlands, some elements of the American holiday have started to creep in. You may notice a few Dutch houses donned with lanterns and spooky decorations. And if nothing else, what better excuse to have to dress up and party with your friends?
READ MORE |Halloween in the Netherlands: the ultimate [and spookiest] guide for 2022

Daylight Savings Time ends
2023-10-31
On this day, the clock falls back one hour from 3 AM to 2 AM, meaning you’re getting a whole extra hour to sleep at night! On the other hand, it also means that the days are getting shorter, dark nights longer, and winter is coming in fast.
READ MORE | Does the Netherlands have Daylight Saving Time?

Sint-Maarten (Dutch Halloween)
2023-11-11 | Netherlands, Netherlands
If you were disappointed by the lack of Halloween parties, Sint-Maarten celebrations may make up for it! Some Dutch cities take this seriously, with parades, bonfires, and lantern tours. Sint-Maarten is an exciting day, especially for children. Pumpkins, turnips, and beetroot are turned into spooky lanterns, and kids sing songs in exchange for fruit and sweets. If you want to impress your Dutch friends, give this song a go:
🇳🇱 “1 november is de dag, dat mijn lichtje, dat mijn lichtje branden mag”.
🇬🇧 “November 1 is the day, that my light, that my light, may burn.”
READ MORE | Halloween in the Netherlands: the ultimate [and spookiest] guide for 2022

Learn all about getting a mortgage for new builds at this seminar!
2023-11-30 19:00 - 19:40 | Planetenweg 5, Hoofddorp (Hyde Park House), Planetenweg 5, Hoofdorp, 2132 HN, Netherlands
Have you set your heart on a new build home in the Netherlands? Wise decision! However, before you sign the dotted line, you should make sure you know all you can about mortgaging a new build.
Your choice of mortgage is very important. That’s why Viisi and Hyde Park have decided to host a seminar dedicated specifically to mortgage planning for new builds.
At their seminar on November 30, you can educate yourself with the help of Viisi and Hyde Park’s experts.
READ MORE | Curious about modern living in the Amsterdam area? Visit the Hyde Park House
They will walk you through the best approach to mortgage planning for new builds, ensuring you have a solid plan for financing your new home.
I’m in, tell me when and where
⏰ When: November 30, 19:00 – 19:40 (please arrive 10 minutes early to ensure it starts on time!)
📍Where: Planetenweg 5, Hoofddorp (Hyde Park House)
✍🏻 How: Simply register using this link!
Curious? Check out the video below to learn more about the collaboration between Hyde Park and Viisi.

Sinterklaas
2023-12-05 | Netherlands, Netherlands
Sinterklaas is one holiday where the Dutch go all out on big celebrations and exciting traditions.
While the youngsters sit their shoes under the chimney to receive chocoladeletters (chocolate letters) and other sweet treats, the adults can celebrate the holiday by giving out tailored gifts or writing poems. You’ll find the popular kruidnoten and pepernoten to satisfy your sweet tooth in all the different supermarkets (even Kruidvat). In most towns, you’ll be able to enjoy the Sinterklaas parade with the man himself roaming the streets together with his helper Zwarte Piet — a figure that has been the site of some controversy in recent years.
READ MORE | Sinterklaas for expats: all the Dutch you need to make it through the holiday season

End the year on a good note with this one-of-a-kind Dutch course
2023-12-09 10:00 - 2023-12-16 16:45
Slowly but surely, 2023 is coming to an end. That means it’s time to wrap up those New Year’s resolutions you had, like learning Nederlands!
Well, why not come together and share some laughs with other internationals — all while taking your Dutch skills to the next level? 🚀
Sound good? Dutch Brainwash makes it possible!
Dutch… what?
Don’t worry; there will be no actual brainwashing involved. Instead, Dutch Brainwash is a 7-day intensive course by the one and only Talencoach.
READ MORE | How the Brainwash technique can supercharge your Dutch
Forget about learning from boring books and memorising strict grammar rules — instead, you’ll learn what actually matters: to understand the essential building blocks that make up the Dutch language. 🇳🇱
Once there, you’ll find that you can speak, in Dutch, about anything you like! At the same time, you’ll share lots of laughs with other learners, who give you the confidence needed to fully immerse yourself in the process.
I’m in, tell me more!
Wat leuk! (How nice!). Here are all the deets you need:
⏰ When? From December 9 until 16, 2023 — between 10 AM and 4:45 PM every day.
🔎 Where? At the Talencoach HQ in Amsterdam!
🤔 How? You can sign up for the Dutch Brainwash course on Talencoach’s website.

Ready to go for it? End 2023 on a good note, learn Dutch and make some great friends while you’re at it!

'In Brilliant Light': marvel at contemporary African art at this exciting new exhibit
2023-12-21 10:00 - 2024-12-21 17:00 | Wereld Museum Leiden, Steenstraat 1, 2312 BS Leiden
As part of its latest exhibit, ‘In Brilliant Light,’ Wereldmuseum Leiden provides a platform for contemporary African art — and we’re very excited.
Opening its doors to the public on 21 December, Wereldmuseum Leiden’s exhibit allows us to celebrate and admire the rich and diverse artwork of Africa and its diaspora.
Guest-curated by Azu Nwagbogu, ‘In Brilliant Light‘ consists of masterpieces from both within the museum’s collection and the works of contemporary artists such as Yinka Shonibare, Sanford Biggers, and Mariam Abouzid Souali.
Through their work, artists from across the globe reflect on colonialism and how this relates to current social themes — all through beautiful, thought-provoking pieces of art.
Ready to explore the themes of post-colonialism, globalisation, emancipation and spirituality through breathtaking art? Here’s all you need to know:
When, where, and how
⏰ When? Open from December 21, 2023, between 10 AM and 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday.
📍 Where? Wereldmuseum Leiden, Steenstraat 1, 2312 BS Leiden
🎨 How? Simple! You can either buy your tickets here or you can buy them at the front desk — no need to reserve.
Now, let’s get ready to enjoy some art “In Brilliant Light” — sorry, we had to.

Christmas Eve
2023-12-24 | Netherlands, Netherlands
Since Sinterklaas has already dropped off his presents on December 5, the Kerstavond is not much of a reason to celebrate. Pretty much a regular day, the Dutchies may spend it having dinner with family and friends, or simply enjoying the general merriment over the holidays. Don’t be surprised if you’re expected to show up at work just like on any other day.
READ MORE | What happens during Christmas in the Netherlands? A guide to the winter holidays

Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag)
2023-12-25 | Netherlands, Netherlands
Also known as the first day of Christmas in the Netherlands, Christmas Day is usually celebrated with the family. Don’t expect to see a turkey dinner or any Christmas pudding. The Dutch traditionally eat gourmetten (an assortment of grilled meats and veg). Presents are exchanged, drinks are drunk, and general Christmas merriment is also in full swing.
READ MORE | What happens during Christmas in the Netherlands? A guide to the winter holidays

Second Day of Christmas (Tweede Kerstdag)
2023-12-26
Boxing Day is for lounging around and eating leftover turkey, right? Not in the Netherlands. Unlike in most cultures, the Second Day of Christmas is a big deal to the Dutch — just as important as December 25. You will typically visit the other side of the family than who you spent Christmas Day with. Get ready to answer all the same questions about what is happening in your life.
READ MORE | What happens during Christmas in the Netherlands? A guide to the winter holidays

New Year's Eve (Oudejaarsavond)
2023-12-31
The Dutch like to bring the New Year in with a bang — literally. Throughout the day, you can hear fireworks being set off left, right and centre. People also flock to The Hague to light bonfires on the Scheveningen shores. Dutch traditions also include eating sweet treats such as oliebollen and apple flap.
READ MORE | New Year’s Eve in the Netherlands in 2019: fireworks, riots, and general madness
