Looking for free things to do in May in the Netherlands?
Then look no further! We present you with not one, not two, but five (!!!) things you can do for free. Oh so many free things to do in May in the Netherlands. 😉
Updated: 30th of April 2019
With May, it is only normal to look for any possible way to get out of the house. With the promise of good weather (fingers crossed, but yeah, it’s cold now) the month of May is full of events and activities to enjoy under the sun. If the King’s Day partying has left you broke for the next couple of weeks, then we just have the list for you.
Here are 5 free events happening all over the Netherlands in the month of May!
#1 Remembrance Day and Liberation Day
When?
The 4th and 5th of May
Where?
All over the Netherlands!
One of the free things to do in May in The Netherlands is celebrating Remembrance Day and Liberation Day along with the Dutch. In case you weren’t aware, every year the Dutch celebrate the freedom of the Netherlands after World War II. There are ceremonies all over Holland to commemorate the soldiers and civilians who died fighting in wars across the world, and the biggest ones are attended by the Dutch royal family. This means you might actually see King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima for free! Usually, the main ceremonies are at the National Monument on Dam Square in Amsterdam and the Waalsdorpvlakte near The Hague.
#2 Japanese Garden
When?
Throughout the whole month of May (and a bit of June)
Where?
Park Clingendael, The Hague
Do you feel like escaping from The Netherlands just for a little bit? Then the Japanese Garden in Park Clingendael is just for you! You will be transported into the beauty of Japan for free. This beautiful garden is only open to the public twice a year (during spring and autumn), so do not miss out on this amazing opportunity. And once you’re done walking through the Japanese Garden, you can also explore Park Clingendael in its full green glory. From hidden pathways, rose gardens, wooden bridges, to swans – the park looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale.
#3 Rolling Kitchen
When?
From the 29th to 31st May
Where?
Westergasfabriek, Amsterdam
This food truck festival is a great delight for all food lovers. And yes, entrance is for free. And no, the food is not for free. But let’s be honest, no money spent on food is spent in vain. Let’s not forget that no food can be fully enjoyed without some nice alcohol on the side. That is why the food truck festival has it all! Sit down at any of the uniquely themed trucks and enjoy an abundance of assorted dishes, accompanied by wine, beer and of course, live music.
#4 Opera Day
When?
From the 17th to the 26th of May
Where?
Various locations in the city centre of Rotterdam
This unique festival celebrates the art of music theater and opera. This festival in Rotterdam has both paid and free events, so you can definitely ride the ‘gratis‘ train. The musical events are spread out throughout the city, so you have the chance of stumbling across a live concert without even expecting it. Talk about serendipity! This year’s lineup includes both Dutch and international acts, so do not miss out on this cultural event.
#5 Ronde Van Katendrecht
When?
From the 25th to the 26th of May
Where?
Katendrecht, Rotterdam
Ronde Van Katendracht (or the cyclist’s festival), is one of the most sporty free events in May. If you’re fond of cycling you can register to participate with the whole family. If you would rather just watch others sweat it out while you enjoy some food and drink, then not to worry, there is plenty to do! The cyclist’s festival doubles as a music event, where many bands and DJ’s perform for the crowd of supporters. The venue will also be surrounded with various attractions, so you won’t even have to break a sweat in order to have some non-cycling fun.
So there you have it! 5 Free Things to Do in May in The Netherlands! Let us know what other free events you will be enjoying in the following weeks!