What to Do in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam in November 2026

02.11.2026

From IDFA and Amsterdam Light Festival to Winter Palace Het Loo and More

November brings a packed programme of events to both Apeldoorn and Amsterdam, offering students plenty of opportunities to explore Dutch culture, attend festivals, discover new exhibitions and connect with friends before the festive season begins.

From internationally renowned film festivals and immersive art experiences in Amsterdam to winter markets, concerts and community events in Apeldoorn, here are some of the highlights taking place throughout November 2026.

Connect with the Wittenborg community

Students and staff looking to meet new people can take part in Bouldering, Bites & Good Vibes on 13 November at Zwitsal Buitenstad in Apeldoorn.

Organised by the Wittenborg, the evening combines indoor bouldering with drinks and snacks, creating a relaxed opportunity to connect with fellow students and colleagues outside the classroom.

Explore Amsterdam's cultural calendar

One of the city's biggest events this month is the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), which runs from 12 to 22 November. The festival brings together documentary screenings, immersive storytelling projects and interactive exhibitions at venues across Amsterdam.

From 17 to 22 November, the Harmony festival takes over the Gashouder, offering a series of music ceremonies that combine contemporary classical, ambient and electronic performances in a unique deep-listening environment.

Discover art and exhibitions

Visitors to the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam can explore the major Yayoi Kusama exhibition, featuring the late Japanese artist's iconic installations, sculptures and immersive infinity room. The exhibition continues until 17 January 2027.

Meanwhile, ARTIS-Micropia launches The Night Watch Lives from 11 November, revealing the microscopic organisms discovered on Rembrandt's famous painting through a collaboration with the Rijksmuseum.

Attend live music events

Music fans can head to Omnisport Apeldoorn on 7 November for Qmusic The Party FOUT, featuring nostalgic hits, live performances and a festival atmosphere.

On 13 November, Music from the Twilight Saga by Mystery Ensemble comes to the Grote Kerk Apeldoorn, bringing music from the popular film series to life through piano and string arrangements.

The month concludes with Popronde Amsterdam on 28 November at Melkweg, showcasing emerging Dutch artists as part of the Netherlands' largest travelling music festival.

Experience Dutch traditions and winter events

One of the Netherlands' best-known traditions returns to Apeldoorn on 14 November with the Arrival of Sinterklaas at Oranjepark, marking the beginning of the festive season.

Visitors can also attend the free Open Mic event at Theater Orpheus on 15 November, featuring local musicians, spoken word artists and performers from across the region.

Later in the month, the Uddel Winter Market takes place on 20 and 21 November, offering seasonal food, drinks and market stalls in a cosy Veluwe setting.

From 27 November, Winter Palace Het Loo transforms Paleis Het Loo with festive decorations, illuminated Christmas trees and seasonal displays that continue through the holiday season.

From November until 17 January 2027, Amsterdam Light Festival returns to the city, transforming canals and public spaces with illuminated artworks and installations that can be explored on foot or by boat.

From international film festivals and immersive exhibitions to winter markets, live music and student events, November offers a host of possibilities to experience both Amsterdam and Apeldoorn before the run-up to the festive season.