Summer in the Netherlands: Your Guide to August 2026 in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam

31.07.2026

From Rooftop Concerts to Outdoor Cinemas, Make the Most of August

August is one of the best times to explore the Netherlands. Whether you're staying in Apeldoorn during the summer break or planning a day trip to Amsterdam, both cities offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music, festivals, outdoor cinema and cultural events before the new academic year begins.

From royal gardens and open-air performances to student events and rooftop concerts, here are some of the highlights to add to your August calendar.

Enjoy Summer Outdoors

Take advantage of the long summer days at Paleis Het Loo, where the Summer Palace programme continues until 30 August. Visitors can explore the palace gardens, enjoy outdoor games, attend Summer Concerts and visit exhibitions.

If you're looking for a relaxed afternoon, Apeldoorn's Sunday Afternoon Concerts take place every Sunday in Oranjepark throughout August. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy free live music, with performances ranging from jazz and blues to pop, folk and world music.

In Amsterdam, Summer on the Rooftop at NEMO Science Museum continues every Thursday until 29 August. Live music, food, drinks and panoramic views across the city make it an ideal way to spend a summer evening.

Experience Festival Season

August is packed with festivals across both cities.

Apeldoorn's StadsOase returns every Sunday, combining live bands, DJs, food and drinks in a relaxed outdoor setting at GIGANT.

Amsterdam also offers a full festival programme. Grachtenfestival runs from 7 to 16 August, bringing around 200 concerts to more than 100 locations across the city. Meanwhile, the Amsterdamse Bostheater continues its summer programme, with Bosfest featuring theatre, comedy, live music and spoken word performances in the open-air theatre.

Dance enthusiasts can also experience Summer Dance Forever from 25 to 31 August, with international street dance competitions, workshops and performances taking place across Amsterdam.

Watch Films Under the Stars

Outdoor cinema is one of the highlights of summer in the Netherlands.

Apeldoorn's Open-Air Film Festival returns to Berg & Bos City Park from 14 to 23 August, offering film screenings in a unique woodland setting.

In Amsterdam, Pluk de Nacht takes over the waterfront at Het Stenen Hoofd from 19 to 29 August, showcasing independent films, documentaries and animation. For another memorable cinema experience, Films With A View at Pllek hosts weekly outdoor screenings at NDSM Wharf with Amsterdam's skyline as the backdrop.

Enjoy Summer Evenings

Some of the best experiences begin after the sun starts to set.

Every Saturday throughout August, ARTIS Summer Nights keeps the zoo open until sunset, with live music, evening walks and food stalls creating a different atmosphere after regular opening hours.

Later in the month, Apeldoorn celebrates THE OPENING from 28 to 30 August, marking the start of the cultural season with music, theatre, dance, exhibitions and performances across the city.

Meet New People

If you're arriving in Apeldoorn for the new academic year, don't miss STUFU – the INTRO student party of Apeldoorn on 26 August at GIGANT. The annual event offers new and returning students the chance to meet people, enjoy live DJs and start the semester with one of the city's biggest student gatherings.