Featured Events in Amsterdam in May, 2025 (May Updated)

For the first time in their history, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam are joining forces to stage a major exhibition of one of the most important artists of our time: Anselm Kiefer.

Widely regarded as one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century, American artist Isamu Noguchi (1904–1988) has left an indelible mark on the art world with his innovative approach to sculpture. He made his modernist work using a variety of materials, including stone, marble, bronze, steel and ceramic. Isamu Noguchi also designed lamps, gardens, playground equipment and radios. The exhibition in the gardens comprises stone and bronze sculptures. Additionally, a ‘cloud’ of his washi paper Akari lamps will be hanging in the Atrium, and a chess table and selection of the artist’s sculptural ceramics will also be on display inside the museum.

For the first time in their history, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam and the Van Gogh Museum are joining forces to stage a major exhibition of one of the most important artists of our time: Anselm Kiefer.

The Dutch museum Nxt Museum opened five years ago in the industrial area of ​​Amsterdam's northern port area. It has attracted many new media art enthusiasts by rotating large-scale cutting-edge exhibitions. The current exhibition is "Still Processing", curated by Belgrade-born curator and artist Bogomir Doringer, which aims to explore the dynamic relationship between humans and machines and study how data shapes meaning and changes sensory experience in the digital age. The exhibition lasts until October 5.

Rijksmuseum moves you to The American Dream. To the real American. To unexpected recognition. The Rijksmuseum is staging the Netherlands’ first major survey exhibition of American photography.

The Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam have long supported the work of Anselm Kiefer, and now the two institutions have joined forces with the Royal Academy of Arts in London to present a remarkable joint exhibition. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to revisit the world of Vincent van Gogh through the eyes of one of the most prominent contemporary figures of monumental painting and politicized art. From the age of 17, Kiefer was deeply influenced by Van Gogh, and the Post-Impressionist master remained a source of inspiration for him throughout his career. Van Gogh might not have imagined that there would always be an exhibition dedicated to his work in a corner of the world, but now we can explore the essence of Van Gogh's work in a new light through the eyes of another great artist.

Ezequiel Pini also known as Six N. Five, is an award-winning Argentinian designer based in Barcelona. Over the last few years, Pini has pioneered the use of 3D and different media to create imaginary, dreamlike worlds with his signature clean, modern aesthetic, making Six N. Five one of the most recognized digital creative practices.

The Rijksmuseum’s collection of more than 500,000 prints and drawings is one of the largest in theworld. With work spanning from 1442 to today, it includes engravings, etchings, woodcuts,lithographs and photographs. Due of the fragility of the material from which they are made wechange the selection of works in the print cabinets every six months, to tell new stories. This time weare giving particular attention to three topics: the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam, the print collagesof Michael Snijders and the drawings of Gerard de Lairesse.

Concurrently with American Photography, Carrie Mae Weems’s 2021 series Painting the Town will be on show in the Rijksmuseum’s photography gallery. At first glance Weems’ large and powerful works resemble abstract paintings. During the Black Lives Matter protests, campaigners wrote texts on the panels that shopkeepers had used to board up their windows as a precautionary measure. The authorities then rendered the slogans illegible by covering them with large patches of paint. The unintended result of this act of censorship was a series of painterly compositions. Weems uses her work to explore what it means to be a witness to history, through themes such as racism, sexism and discrimination.

German artist Anselm Kiefer admired the artistic style of Vincent Van Gogh at the age of 17. His fascination with Van Gogh's work is still clearly visible in his works to this day, and he has been fascinated by Post-Impressionism throughout his career. This is the first major exhibition of Kiefer's work ever jointly organized by the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, and his work will be exhibited together with Van Gogh's. A beautiful visual feast, the exquisite paintings of these two masters are definitely not to be missed.

The Suit Yourself display reveals how fashionable men in the 18th and 19th centuries would flaunt themselves dressed in flamboyant striped velvet, floral embroidery and rich silk fabrics. This use of vibrant colours and contrasting textiles flourished during the ‘macaroni’ period from 1750 to 1770. The style evolved in the 19th century with industrialisation, which increased the availability of fabrics and ready-to-wear garments. A highlight of the display is the evening coat decorated with 4,000 rhinestones that would have sparkled in the candlelight with every movement.

In 2025, wewillcelebrate the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam. In the summer exhibition, you will see the city through Rembrandt’s eyes. He lived most of his life in Amsterdam and often captured the city and its residents in his prints. He made portraits ofAmsterdammersandobservedeverydaylife in the city. From street vendors to the city council – Amsterdam comes alive innearly 50etchings by Rembrandt from the Rembrandt House Museum collection.

Andrés Reisinger is one of the most sought-after visual artists and designers of the 21st Century. He has conquered a unique position in contemporary culture, occupying and defining the fertile space between the digital and physical spheres. Originally from Argentina and currently residing in Spain between Madrid and Barcelona, where his studios are based, Reisinger bridges realms with an instantly recognisable aesthetic that conveys a mesmerisingly clear vision.

Now on display at Moco Amsterdam, Frankey’s art takes center stage in the exhibition "Planet Positive Disruption," a vibrant showcase of humor, lightheartedness, and the transformative power of creative disruption. This collaboration reflects Moco’s dedication to elevating street art as a dynamic form of artistic expression, while championing the creativity rooted in the museum’s very own city.

Oltre Terra, Formafantasma’s ongoing project and traveling exhibition, explores the history, ecology, and global dynamics of wool extraction and production. It goes further than the simple definition of wool as material, to look at it within a much broader ecology. Wool is the entry point for delving into the intricate interactions and interdependencies within an ecosystem. By looking at the history of sheep domestication, wool production, and material culture, Oltre Terra unravels the complexities of the cooperative symbiosis between animals, humans, and the environment. The exhibition explores this very intimate, yet complex, bond between humans and animals, emphasizing the impact they have on one another.

On 1 July 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery in Suriname on paper. In reality, the ‘freed’ in Suriname are obliged to continue working on the plantations for another ten years. In order to compensate for the shortage of labor after this period, the Netherlands starts recruiting so-called ‘contract workers’. These people are often recruited with false promises in China, India and Indonesia, among others. Sometimes they leave their country of their own accord, sometimes they are forced or abducted. They hardly get any wages and work under horrible conditions on the plantations. Very few people had the opportunity to return. Many stayed in Suriname and never saw their homeland again. Artist and researcher Sarojini Lewis came across the person of Soerdie in the archives of the Royal Library in The Hague: the first female ‘contract worker’ who was shipped from India via Barbados to Suriname. Based on books, letters and travel reports from that time, Lewis imagines what the life of Surdie might have looked like. Sarojini Lewis hides in the skin of Surdie. Her self-portraits at historical locations respond to the energy present on the abandoned plantations in Suriname and archival material she has previously discovered. She uses Critical Fabulation: a creative reconstruction of Surdie’s life, based on the few transmitted data from archives. She connects the story of this woman with the history of her own Hindustani ancestors who worked in the same area in Commewijne. In the exhibition, Sarojini Lewis speaks. In a series of Atlantic Windows, contemporary artists reflect on the exhibition Shadows on the Atlantic Ocean and the impact of the colonial past in this area. The windows were performed by Kevin Osepa and Sites of Memory: Decoding the Atlantic World. Atlantic Window III: Sarojini Lewis - Silence of the Sea: A trail of Surdie can be seen from 31 March to 1 October.

Artist Pamela Rosenkranz presents her first exhibition in the Netherlands at the Stedelijk Museum. Rosenkranz is internationally acclaimed for her immersive works that reflect on the relationship between the body, its physiology and rapidly changing environment. In Rosenkranz’s work, this environment is marked by advanced technology, late capitalism, and human-machine relations. Her work often consists of installations and readymade sculptures that frequently reference famous artworks or everyday objects such as Amazon packaging and water bottles. Rosenkranz was a resident of the Rijksakademie van Beeldende Kunsten from 2010 to 2012. She has presented solo exhibitions at institutions such as Centre d’Art Contemporain, Geneva (2010), Kunsthalle Basel (2012), Swiss Pavilion, Venice Biennale (2015), K21 Düsseldorf (2017), and Kunsthaus Bregenz (2021). In 2023, she unveiled a major public sculpture on New York’s High Line.

Korean artist Kimsooja gained international fame with poetic installations about migration, uprooting, longing for a home and identity. Especially for the Oude Kerk she made her most extensive series of bottari: iconic textile bundles inspired by Korean wraps, filled with clothing from Amsterdam communities. She also covered the 44,000 panes of the meter-high windows with transparent foil that breaks sunlight into rainbow colors. To Breathe – Mokum offers a meditative experience about coming home and what we take with us or leave behind. Invite someone to join you

Billie Eilish Amsterdam promises an unforgettable evening of music and emotion at the renowned ZiggoDome in Amsterdam. Scheduled for May 3, 2025, at 20:00, this highly anticipated event will showcase the Grammy-winning artist's unique voice and captivating stage presence. Fans can expect to be mesmerized by Billie Eilish's haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, set against the backdrop of one of Europe's premier concert venues. With a reputation for delivering powerful performances, Billie Eilish Amsterdam is set to be a highlight of the year's music calendar. Tickets for this event are in high demand, reflecting the artist's global appeal and the excitement surrounding her Amsterdam performance. The ZiggoDome, known for its state-of-the-art acoustics and intimate atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for an evening that promises to be both electrifying and deeply moving.

We weten niet hoe het met jou zit, maar voor ons is het veel te lang geleden dat we hebben gedanst! En daarom hebben we besloten om een superleuke avond te organiseren waarop we met de redactie van Saar, Barbara, Femke, Gijsje, en al onze leuke, lieve, maffe redacteuren, abonnees, podcastfans en volgers, gewoon een avond lekker gaan dansen en kletsen. In een mooie club. Met heerlijke drankjes en hapjes. En met de beste DJ ooit: geen keiharde gabber, maar ook geen oude meuk. Precies wat wij leuke, frisse, jonge 50+ers fijn vinden. Kom je? Information Source: Barbara van Erp | eventbrite

Billie Eilish Amsterdam is set to be an unforgettable evening at the renowned ZiggoDome in Amsterdam. On May 6, 2025, at 20:00, fans will gather to experience the unparalleled talent of Billie Eilish, whose haunting vocals and captivating stage presence have taken the music world by storm. With tickets priced at 434 USD, this event promises an exclusive and intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate the artistry and depth of Eilish's music. The ZiggoDome, known for its state-of-the-art acoustics and impressive architecture, provides the ideal backdrop for what is sure to be a mesmerizing performance. Attendees can expect a night filled with powerful performances of both chart-topping hits and deep cuts from Eilish's discography, all delivered with the emotional intensity that has become her trademark. This highly anticipated event, Billie Eilish Amsterdam, is not to be missed by any music enthusiast looking to witness a once-in-a-lifetime concert experience.

🔥 FOR THE FIRST TIME IN AMSTERDAM! 🔥 Club Noir Amsterdam presents Shallipopi LIVE! 🚀🎤 Don’t miss the Nigerian superstar bringing the heat to Amsterdam for the very first time! 📅 Date: Friday, May 30 📍 Venue: H7 Warehouse, Amsterdam ⏰ Doors Open: 22:00 Get ready for an unforgettable night of music, vibes, and energy! 🎶✨ 🎟 Limited Tickets !!Grab your tickets NOW 📲 Table Reservations (WhatsApp): 0616705072 Information Source: Club Noir | eventbrite

De Mentale Wasstraat When: Where: AMAZE Amsterdam Get ready to dive into a day of mental cleansing at De Mentale Wasstraat! This event is your chance to wash away stress, refresh your mind, and rejuvenate your spirit. Join us at AMAZE Amsterdam for a unique experience that will leave you feeling energized and inspired. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take care of your mental well-being in a fun and interactive way. See you there! Information Source: Garage2020 | eventbrite

A group of novice actors, writers, and directors are excited to present their one-act plays to you! Get ready for an evening filled with laughter, drama, and everything in between. Our talented performers will showcase their skills in a series of short, captivating plays that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Join us for a night of entertainment and support local theater! Playwrights: Niharika Iyengar, Amy Lawrenson, Stacey Smith, Isaac Simon All plays will be performed in English. Information Source: Niharika Iyengar | eventbrite

MR Amsterdam 2nd Annviersary Celebration Join us for our 2nd anniversary with a massive celebration! All Midnight Runners worldwide are invited, so don't hesitate to bring along your friends and family. Secure your spot early and enjoy a special discount by purchasing your ticket before April 10th. Let's make this anniversary bash unforgettable! Event information Date & Time: May 3rd @2p.m. Ending time: 1 a.m. Location: Veronica Ship Boat (1 NDSM-Pier, 1033 RG Amsterdam) !!!MORE EXCITING DETAILS TO FOLLOW!!! Q/A Do I need to be from the Midnight Runners community to join? No, it is not required for you to be part of the community to join. All friends, family and interested to have fun can join :) Will there be music or DJ? We will have great DJ onboard that will be playing amazing hits during the event. Information Source: Midnight Runners | eventbrite

Have you visited the red light district? Have you smoked weed at coffee shops? They're all unique experiences in Amsterdam, but if you really want to experience the local life in Holland, you've got to experience it through the lens of local comedy! The underground comedy scene in Amsterdam is one of the biggest in Europe, and is only expanding! The Netherlands also hosts EU's biggest comedy festivals, and so there are also great travelling comedians in the city at all times. So come and experience this Amsterdam International Comedy Night, the best way to spend your evening in the city. 👩🤵 Meet new people 🎙️Enjoy Live stand-up comedy Popular Comedians Underground Comedians Dark Comedians We have a limited capacity, so book your tickets ahead of time. We will start at 19:30 and end at 21:30 (after which you can stay back all night for the after-party). Doors open for Drinks and food from 19:00 This event is brought to you by Dopamine Comedy Club and Cafe De Plakhoek Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dopaminecomedyclub/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100064773588043 Things to do in Amsterdam! Live in Amsterdam. Fun activities in Amsterdam! Disclaimer: This is not a showcase (whatever that means) and according to two people (let's call them Ashok Kumar Jr and Jhanvi Nath III. Let's also assume that they are related to each other and never attended Balika Shishu Vishvidyalaya), this is not the best show in town. There are better things to do, like gambling away all your money. Attend this show at your own risk. Information Source: Dopamine Comedy Club | eventbrite

Ever wondered how to turn your voice notes into real songs — and those songs into real listeners? This 4-part workshop series is designed to take you step-by-step from your first home recordings to building a presence on Spotify and beyond. Whether you’re starting from scratch or stuck at 1,000 streams, this journey is for you. ⸻ Workshop #1: From Bedroom Musician to Spotify Success Thursday, 8 May 2025 — 19:00 @ PARLOUR AMSTERDAM We’ll kick things off by laying your foundation: • Discover and define your artist identity • Build your digital presence with purpose • Leverage your personal network • Learn how to write memorable, emotionally resonant songs • Wrap up with a hands-on exercise to get you creating on the spot Perfect for anyone who’s recorded a few ideas on their phone and is wondering: What now? €19 Early Bird | €27 Full Price ⸻ What’s Next in the Series? •Workshop #2: From 1,000 to 10,000 Streams How to get real plays without begging friends — smart release strategies, playlists, and momentum. •Workshop #3: Growing Your Tribe Building a real audience around your music — social media, storytelling, and authenticity. •Workshop #4: First Releases, First Fans How to launch like a pro — visuals, rollout plans, and turning your release into an event. ⸻ Each workshop is standalone, but together they form a roadmap for the modern independent artist. Ready to stop dreaming and start growing? 📅 Thursday, 8 May 2025 🕖 19:00 💸 €19 Early Bird | €27 Full Price 📍 PARLOUR Amsterdam Cornelis Troostplein 23, 1072JJ A collaborative event by: Tritone Music Mentors Indie Music Amsterdam 11/10 Information Source: The Parlour Amsterdam | eventbrite

Welcome to the Amsterdam 90's Basketball Reunie 2025!Heb je in de 90's gespeeld in Apollo Hall? Klinkt het volgende je erg bekend: BVA, Club76, Asima, Katteburg, Beukenplein? Of was je er voor support in Apollo hall? Zo ja, dan moet je 110% bij deze reunie aanwezig zijn. Germaine Mau-A-Sam, Guno Esajas (Sekrepa2) en Olivia Haltman (OH services Ltd) organiseren deze reunie om de gezellige tijden te herinneren en meer leuke herinneringen te creeren en daarom samen te komen na bijna 30 jaar. Kom en support of speel een pick up game, en daarna wat spelletjes, quizjes doen, en dan wat eten en drinken om een gezellige tijd ervan te maken, met de oude beats van de 90's op de achtergrond. Let op! Toegang is alleen met registratie en 18+ only, dus registreer je nu want we hebben maar een beperkte aantal tickets. DRESS CODE: Your best 90's b'ball outfit. Registratie voor de pick up games is open van 11.30 so be on time, de dag begint om 12.00 en zal eindigen om 18.00, met 2.5/3 uurtjes b'ball pick up games, dus als je nog kan rennen of schieten moet je zeker je skills komen laten zien. Wat kan je verwachten: Pick up games (kom optijd voor je registratie en ook om de oude garde te supporten)Snack en drinksGezellig de reunie vierenMuziekQuiz/SpelletjesGratis raffle ticketDe beste 90's B'BALL OUTFIT wint een prijs, dus kom b'ball gedressed.And again: No ticket no entree, don't miss out. Heb je nog enige vragen email ons dan op: ohservices2010@gmail.com met in de subject: B'ball Reunie, zodat we je vragen niet missen. See you all there and get ready to have some fun and laughter like we did in the 90's. Germaine, Guno & Olivia Oja,en vergeet je niet aan te sluiten bij onze private Facebook Groep: Amsterdam 90's Basketbal Reunie 2025 . Information Source: OH Services | eventbrite