Sinterklaasintocht Amsterdam (Amsterdam Winter Festival – Sinterklaas Arrival) is one of the Netherlands’ most beloved holiday traditions, celebrated each November as Sinterklaas arrives in the city by boat from Spain. Thousands gather along the Amstel River to welcome him, as a festive parade of boats, marching bands, and colorful characters makes its way to the city center. Children eagerly await sweets and gifts tossed by Sinterklaas’s helpers, while the city transforms into a lively winter festival with music, markets, and family activities. Blending Dutch folklore with festive cheer, it marks the official start of the holiday season in Amsterdam.
Free 30-min consult. Weekend in Amsterdam or a Netherlands route—we’ll plan the Sinterklaas arrival parade (Intocht) with family-friendly vantage points and a walkable stay near the route.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 16 November 2025 (Sunday).
• Water parade (official): 10:00 start → 10:15 Omval → 10:40 Ceintuurbaan → 10:50 Sarphatistraat → 11:15 Amstel/Nieuwe Herengracht → 11:30 official welcome at the National Maritime Museum — see Official site.
• Land parade (official): 13:00 departs Stopera/Waterlooplein → 13:15 Rembrandtplein → 13:20 Utrechtsestraat → 13:35 Frederiksplein → 13:55 Weteringcircuit → 14:15 arrives Leidseplein; program ends ~15:30 — see Official site and the City page.
• Indicative window: activities typically run late morning to mid‑afternoon (about 10:00–15:30) — per the Tourism listing.
LOCATION
• Where: Central Amsterdam (Amstel river to the National Maritime Museum, then through the city center to Leidseplein) — see the Official tourism overview.
• Map (finale hub): Leidseplein — Open in Google Maps.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Free entry: Public parade and activities along streets and quays; no ticket required — confirmed on the Official tourism listing.
• Viewing spots: Arrive early for family‑friendly vantage points; detailed viewing advice appears with the published route each year — see Route & traffic.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Transport: Use public transport; expect road closures and diversions in the center — advisories on the City page.
• Park & Ride: If driving, consider official P+R car parks on the city edge and continue by tram/metro — Amsterdam P+R.
• Exact times: The official site publishes the full timetable and route each year — see the Program.
Flat planning fees and WhatsApp support 08:00–20:00 CET.