On Saturday, July 5 and Sunday, July 6 you'll have the unique chance to (re)discover the vibrant heart of Amsterdam. Stroll along narrow canals and through picturesque alleyways, enjoy live music, taste local delicacies, join a mini workshop, and visit one of the many special historic locations. There are more than 70 different activities, as varied and colorful as the neighborhood itself.
Come and visit our Wallen Festival market stall on the Nieuwmarkt. Here you will find all information about the festival, and these program booklets. Have your face painted in the colors of the festival or take a fun photo at our photo booth.
Location: Wallen Festival market stall on the Nieuwmarkt
There's a secret trail near you... Scan the code to play, solve clues, and explore the history of the Wallen like never before. Look for the Wallies spread throughout the Wallen…!
Visual artist Viola Renate welcomes you with a living artwork. Her digital art transforms into a tangible canvas that invites encounter and connection.
Location: Start 12:00 on the Nieuwmarkt, then at various festival locations.
We are proud to announce that the fanfare will perform during this event. Prepare for an atmospheric performance full of musical energy and beautiful sounds. Let yourself be carried away by the rhythms and melodies of these talented musicians!
The neighborhood around the Zeedijk is the oldest Chinatown on the European mainland. During the Wallen Festival, Liu He Men Kung Fu School will perform the traditional Lion Dance, an ancient Chinese tradition that plays an important role during Chinese holidays.
Location: Start 12:00 on the Nieuwmarkt
When DJ Marcel lets his groovy beats flow over the Wallen and saxophonist Robert Schinkel lets his smooth solos roll over the street, an irresistible cocktail of sound and soul is created. Dance along in the middle of the city – you don't want to miss this!
13:00 on the Varkenssluis
14:00 on the Bushuissluis
15:00 on the Zandbrug (Bridge 225)
16:00 on the Sint Antoniesluis
A colorful procession of DJs provides rhythm, atmosphere, and movement. From sultry grooves to exhilarating beats. Let yourself be surprised by the young diverse talent of the Wallen Festival. Expect energy, atmosphere, and above all: a strong desire to dance.
Free entry | Nesplein
Do you dare to take a seat behind the window at number 75? Red velvet curtains, seductive light, and theatrical details form the backdrop for a sultry photo booth in a Moulin Rouge atmosphere. Pose as a true courtesan and go home with the festival photo that will make your wildest friends jealous.
Nes 75
Drink a cocktail and go home with unique embroidery? Yes, please! Order a drink, choose an embroidery design, and have it applied directly to your brought clothing item or bag. A party for lovers of textiles, style, and a good sip. Limited spots.
18+ | Zeedijk 41
Curious about life in the Wallen? Step inside a young resident's home and experience the atmosphere of his Amsterdam house. With a drink and a snack – indoors and outdoors (by the blue Volkswagen van) – the neighborhood is ready for you. Just drop by.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 121c
Discover how you can make a difference as a volunteer! The Volunteer Central Amsterdam organizes a short presentation every hour, followed by a surprising quiz about volunteer work in the city — throughout the years. Ask your questions, get inspired, and win a nice prize!
Skek, Zeedijk 4
Learn all about forty years of Dutch tolerance policy while enjoying a cup of coffee at coffeeshop Green House. A unique opportunity to learn more about the history of coffeeshops in Amsterdam.
Welcome to Oudezijds 100 – an oasis of peace and engagement in the heart of the Wallen. Enjoy live music, coffee and tea, a good conversation, or a tour through the community and the historic chapel. On Saturday, the meeting room De Kajuit is open; on Sunday, there is space for contemplation in the open chapel.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 100
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 191
Always been curious about BDSM or handmade sex toys? Step inside Smart Fetish & Fantasy for a no-obligation introduction to this world: respectful, creative, and open. Our staff will be happy to tell you more about their craft and mission.
18+ | Zeedijk 93
Always been curious about life behind the window? During the Wallen Festival, room rental company Munnik opens the doors of a classic 1970s style brothel. Take a look inside an original peeskamer and discover how a sex worker performs her work.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 25
Step into the house of local resident Bert Koeman, where history comes alive. Together with designers Sjoerd Willem Bosch and Jesse Verdoes, he explores the origins of Amsterdam and the eternal struggle against water – a personal narrative about dikes, dreams, and the city in motion.
Moddermolenstraat 0 (corner Zuiderkerkhof)
Meet twin sisters Louise and Martine Fokkens. These two old prostitutes will take you into their world full of stories, mischievous humor, and life experience. Come chat, have a book signed, or just socialize in the lobby of The Bulldog Hotel.
Oudezijds Voorburgwal Lobby | 18+
Since 2006, Catta has been designing, making, and selling special clothing items, with great attention to sustainability. In the studio, you can see how her sustainable creations come to life and discover the creative process from design to sale.
Geldersekade 65sou
The Prostitution Information Center (PIC) is open for cold drinks, cake, savory snacks, informative conversations, and lots of fun and games. Come by and meet your local sex workers!
Enge Kerksteeg
Discover the hidden stories of gables and brickwork around the Waag with guide Jos Otten (chairman of the Association of Friends of Amsterdam Gables). Spot the man with the black hat and let yourself be taken into the history of the neighborhood.
In and around the Waag
Step into Marianne Vanderwilt's studio and see how her elegant leather designs are created — always in conversation with the female body and often inspired by music. At 17:00, live music will sound between the clothing racks.
Geldersekade 43d
Do you want to attend a live radio broadcast? Come and watch and who knows, you might be directly on air.
Free entry | Zeedijk 44
Pianist Rembrandt Frerichs, drummer Vinsent Planjer, and oboist Maripepa Contreras let the historic organ of the Oude Kerk merge with whispering drums and the melancholic sounds of the Armenian duduk. In this special concert, a dialogue arises between East and West, between ancient and modern: a mystical musical experience in a sacred space.
Oude Kerk, Oudekerksplein 23
Il Sogno's stone oven pizzas are a household name in the neighborhood – fresh, crispy, and irresistible. During the Wallen Festival, you'll get a pizza tasting with a glass of Italian wine or soft drink. On Saturday afternoon, the band Musica Ribelle will play energetic live music from well-known and lesser-known Italian artists from 14:00 to 16:00. Full belly, happy heart.
Koningsstraat 19
Come listen to the Zeedijk Choir, singing about the colorful life of the red-light district and the old city center. Enjoy cabaret songs in a unique setting.
Performances: 15:00 – 15:25 | 15:45 – 16:20 | Nieuwmarkt
In the Zuiderkerkhof, the Antonius Choir sings its cracking or atmospheric original repertoire, fitting the surroundings and the neighborhood. Success guaranteed!
Performances: 14:00 – 14:20 | 14:40 – 15:00 | Zuiderkerkhof
The Lastage Choir sings on the street! Enjoy a selection from their summery concert repertoire at various locations. Multi-part choir singing, spontaneous and free.
Performances: 13:00 on Oudekerksplein; 14:00 on the Zeedijk (near Sint Olofssteeg)
Sing along with the Amsterdam Golden Oldies Choir! In the heart of the Wallen, they bring back the atmosphere of yesteryear with recognizable and captivating hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. A party of nostalgia and communal singing for young and old.
Performances: 15:00 on Oudekerksplein; 16:00 on the bridge near Café the old sailor
In the surreal setting of Tim Cantor’s gallery, Sanem Kalfa delivers an intense solo performance. With vocals, cello, ukulele, and electronics, she weaves layered soundscapes that depict the strength and resilience of women. Surrounded by Tim Cantor’s dreamlike art.
Saturday: 13:30 – 14:00 | 14:30 – 15:00 | 15:30 – 16:00
Sunday: 13:30 – 14:00 | 14:30 – 15:00 | 15:30 – 16:00
Tim Cantor Gallery, Nieuwe Hoogstraat 6
In living room café Latei on the Zeedijk, you can join an intimate hour of live music. Enjoy alternative music, good coffee, art on the walls, and the unsurpassed Amsterdam atmosphere.
Zeedijk 143
Let yourself be carried away by the catchy, funky jazz of the Something About Sanna trio. Swinging, stylish, and completely live. Perfect as a musical break during your festival day.
Saturday 13:00 – 13:30 | 14:00 – 14:30 | 15:00 – 15:30
Sunday: 13:00 – 13:30 | 14:00 – 14:30 | 15:00 – 15:30
Oudekerksplein 30a
Singer Esther van Hees and the Amsterdam Jazz Trio bring an atmospheric selection from the American Songbook to life – with classics like ‘My Funny Valentine’, ‘Alone Together’, and ‘How Deep Is the Ocean’. In the spirit of Chet Baker, who made these pieces unforgettable with his warm voice and lyrical trumpet playing, the music resonates in a charged place: the Prins Hendrik Hotel, where Baker died in 1988. Photos will be projected during the performance, with thanks to Frank Jochemsen of the Nederlands Jazz Archief.
Prins Hendrikkade 52–58
Café ZILT proudly presents a fine jazz music session with the participation of a selection of international artists. David Puime keeps time, Philip Lewin lays a foundation, Joan Fort Nieto strikes a chord, and Lachlan Hamilton blows you away. Be there!
Free entry | Zeedijk 49
Asmim Mandillo is a classically trained cellist and singer with a great love for jazz, Brazilian, African, and Portuguese music. As a resident of the Wallen, she brings a special mix of classical technique and worldly influences to her performances. This concert is an initiative of Red Light Arts and Culture.
Enjoy short concerts of 20 minutes at various times: 12:00 | 12:45 | 13:30 | 14:00 | 15:00
Koestraat 15
Immerse yourself in the game ‘Unimaginable Red’, inspired by ‘pleasure activism’ and social movements in the Wallen. View the video art and experience the game on the Nesplein.
Video art: Oude Hoogstraat 35 | Gaming experience: Nesplein (suitable for 12+)
Filmmaker/photographer and local resident Alexander Moust creates an ever-growing series of portraits of new residents, entrepreneurs, and new initiatives in the city center. View and listen to the start of this special series among the coffee and vinyl at Black Gold.
Korte Koningsstraat 13
(Sunday only in the window display) Come and take a look at Waag Futurelab's newest textile project, produced entirely in Amsterdam. Admire this sustainable experiment amidst the beautiful fabrics of Capsicum, one of the most special fabric stores on the edge of the Wallen. You'll get a sneak preview of a very special design: a jacket for our mayor.
Oude Hoogstraat 1
Step inside artist Denise Rosenboom's iconic window. Filled with vulva necklaces, daring drawings, and art that celebrates femininity and freedom. Meet Denise and her work in the neighborhood.
Geldersekade 83a
Welcome to the creative universe of Sunflower Soup! In PPP, art collective W139 transforms into an open studio full of playful, political imagination. On Saturday from 12:00 to 15:00, join the P(r)otato Propaganda Production workshop and collectively design new slogans and banners for a world where potatoes (and others) have a voice.
W139, Warmoesstraat 139
In 1345, the inexplicable happened: a host survived a fireplace unscathed in Amsterdam. The ‘Miracle of Amsterdam’ grew into a pilgrimage and a myth. 750 years later, this exhibition brings the story to life, in the unique historical setting of the museum. Past and future meet in this special exhibition.
Free admission to exhibition upon presentation of program booklet
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38-40
Visit the talented young Amsterdam artist Dano Seegers, and discover his modern abstract art at The Cristel Ballroom Gallery
Free entry | Geldersekade 58
Visit the Oude Kerk and discover the impressive new exhibition by international artist Kimsooja. During a guided tour, you will learn more about her work, specially created for this unique location.
Tour start times: 14:00 | 15:00 | 16:00
Free admission upon presentation of program booklet
Oudekerksplein 23
Be surprised by the work of local artists Donna van Oorschot, Roger Ruhulessin, and Els Monde. They collectively showcase their work in our beautiful exhibition space.
Oudeschans 21
What slips through our fingers? In 'What Cannot Be Held', influential contemporary artists from Belgium show how they deal with transience, vulnerability and the complexity of being human. A layered exhibition full of poetry, reflection and visual power. Short guided tours may be given – keep an eye on the program on site.
Flemish Cultural House de Brakke Grond, Nes 45
Be surprised by Ingrid Engels' layered collages and assemblages. With materials from Waterlooplein, she creates art full of humor and character: recycle art with a story!
Jodenbreestraat 22
What will our city look like in the year 2775? Students from classes 4 and 5 of the Barlaeus Gymnasium show their vision of the future in a surprising exhibition full of paintings, models and installations. Including music, workshops and perhaps your first introduction to a future grandmaster.
Jodenbreestraat 25
Explore the special exhibition in the neurodiverse art space ‘No Limits! Art Castle’. Discover Asian food culture and Surinamese spiritualism during an inspiring tour.
Sint Annendwarsstraat 9c
New residents Barbara Weenink and Jouke Kleerebezem open Amsterdam's smallest art space. The width x depth x height measure exactly 96x69x288cm. Discover their eclectic program for 2025-2026, with a focus on cultural niches.
Warmoesstraat 111-1
Step inside Rembrandt's house, where he lived, worked, and drew. Discover sixty original prints and drawings, see 17th-century Amsterdam through Rembrandt's eyes, and participate in the Open Studio using centuries-old drawing techniques. There are also live demonstrations of etching and paint preparation.
Free entry with this program booklet
Jodenbreestraat 4
How locally can we produce? And can socials truly be social again? At Waag Futurelab, you'll get a glimpse into two inspiring projects: from 100% Amsterdam textiles to new ways of connecting online. Discover how technology, sustainability, and community come together.
Waag, 1st floor – entrance right next to the terrace
In Photosynthesis, the body is central. Artist Rabin Huissen explores physical presence, traces, and transience in a serene, personal exhibition.
Geldersekade 30
Creating connects and opens new worlds. At AHAC, you'll discover how art and craft contribute to personal growth and pleasure. Come by for workshops, a makers' market, and an exhibition.
Oudeschans 21
Create your personal bracelet full of symbolism and positive intention.
€15 | Register via website or email
Amsterdam House of Arts, Oudeschans 21
Get creative and make a unique power object that suits you.
€15 | Register via website or email
Amsterdam House of Arts, Oudeschans 21
Always wanted to take a look inside the Banana Bar? During the festival you can meet pole dancers and try it yourself during one of the workshops.
Workshops: 13:00 | 14:00 | 15:00
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 37
For almost 30 years, Sai Mithra Yoga has been a haven of peace in the heart of the city. During the festival, we invite you to catch your breath with a series of accessible sessions, right in the square. Experience yoga as coming home to yourself — without frills, with attention and joy.
Sessions: 12:00 Sun Salutation; 12:45 Powerful yoga class; 13:30 Heart meditation; 14:15 Peace mantra
Square near De Flesseman (in case of bad weather: welcome at Sai Mithra Yoga Sint Antoniesbreestraat 102)
Discover colorful stained glass work and make your own paper panel. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, chat about the neighborhood, and admire Prasada Griffioen's exhibition.
Recht Boomssloot 52
Step behind the bar of this charming cocktail bar and mix your own Wallenfestival cocktail. For €9.50, you'll learn to shake like a pro in no time. Alcohol-free options are also available, so it's suitable for everyone.
Zeedijk 12
Unleash your creativity and write about themes you bring up, guided by writers from Loesje Amsterdam. In this open writing session, you'll learn to write like Loesje and get acquainted with one of her writing locations.
Maximum 10 participants | Register via this link | Keizersstraat 1
Always wanted to spin with vinyl? At Zwart Goud, you'll get a compact and accessible introduction to DJing. Learn the basics of beatmatching, making transitions, and using the EQ. A new workshop starts every 40 minutes – perfect for curious beginners who want to get a taste of the profession.
A 40-minute workshop starts every hour
Geldersekade 89s
Always been curious about bridge? In this accessible introduction, Koen Streekstra will introduce you to this strategic card game played worldwide. Bridge is social, challenging, and fun to learn — ideal if you're considering starting.
Huis De Pinto, Sint Antoniesbreestraat 69
For the youngest fans of our neighborhood! Children up to 15 years old can choose a denim jacket for free and customize it themselves with the cutest buttons, paint, or glitter.
Nieuwe Hoogstraat 5a
Take a look in the woodcarving studio and try to bring a marionette to life yourself. For young and old, with an open bar for those who want to linger.
Nieuwe Jonkerstraat 8
Students from the Amsterdamse Toneelschool en Kleinkunstacademie (Amsterdam School of Theatre and Cabaret) present a varied program with short performances: music, scenes, comedy, and text. Drop in, watch, listen, and support young talent with a voluntary contribution.
The Red Space @Droog, Staalstraat 7b
Between the bar and tables, it's bustling with music, cabaret, art, and Amsterdam coziness. Pull up a chair, order something delicious, and enjoy an afternoon full of atmosphere and surprises.
Sint Pieterspoortsteeg 29
The red curtains open for an afternoon full of cabaret, music, art, and curiosities. Experience Amsterdam performances up close in the city's smallest theater.
Sint Pieterspoortsteeg 33
A cheerful and playful interplay of words and sounds. Poet Tijdelijke Toon and pianist Sem Kramer improvise live in a performance that grates, laughs, and touches. Beat poetry meets jazz improvisation.
Mascini Theater, Zeedijk 24a
Il Sogno's stone oven pizzas are a local institution – fresh, crispy, and irresistible. During the Wallen Festival, you'll get a pizza tasting with a glass of Italian wine or soda. Full belly, happy heart.
Koningsstraat 19
Play along at Café Bern! Can you identify the cheese(s) in our fondue? Taste and win 200 grams of this special cheese(s).
Nieuwmarkt 9
Be surprised at Nishi's market stall with authentic Japanese snacks. Think of freshly prepared onigiri and other typical Japanese delicacies — simple, pure, and full of flavor. Perfect for a tasty break during your walk along the Zeedijk.
Zeedijk 89
Fancy a delicious glass of wine? Let yourself be tempted by special wines and wonderful stories, in the warm atmosphere of The Lobby. A top sommelier will take you on a taste journey at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM – with a maximum of 25 people.
Limited seating | 18+
Nes 49
Taste a bonbon with an espresso bean and get the second box for half price. Treat yourself to top-quality chocolate.
Oudekerksplein 17a
Come by Amsterdam's only completely vegan store for a tasting of plant-based cheeses and shatta – a unique opportunity to get acquainted with plant-based cuisine!
Nieuwe Hoogstraat 3a
Fancy a shot? Come by Café Spargo, Villa Nieuwmarkt, and 't Tuinfeest for a special selection of drinks, curated by the nicest ladies in the neighborhood. And... have you come across our TikTok yet? Whisper its name at the bar and get your shot with a discount.
Café Spargo, Villa Nieuwmarkt and ’t Tuinfeest
Bitterballen and brown cafe happiness: pull up a chair at Old Sailor for a free portion and a good dose of coziness.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 39-A
Step into Little Sailor for a drink and a free portion of bitterballen in the heart of Zeedijk.
Zeedijk 120
Discover the hidden stories of the Wallen via Roods: an app that transforms the neighborhood into a living open-air museum. Visit this link or download the Roods app to explore iconic places such as the Oude Kerk, Café het Mandje, or the mysterious Bloedstraat. At each location, you'll hear stories about the people and secrets of then and now. Includes a digital map with extra information about the Wallen Festival and practical tips.
Story Spots: In ’t Aepjen, Café het Mandje, Restaurant Kaap en Tein, Oude Kerk, Satanskerk (Bananenbar), Atheneum Illustre, Munttoren, Bloedstraat, Trippenhuis & PIC Oude Kerksteeg
Rowing club 't Juiste Tuig on the Kromme Waal sails with historical sloops. Would you like to try a bit of rowing? At 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, we row from the Oude Kerk to the Zwanenburgwal, and at 1:45 PM or 3:15 PM the other way around: from the Zwanenburgwal to the Oude Kerk. Each departure has space for four newcomers.
Boarding points: Oude Kerk and Zwanenburgwal
Join officers from the Burgwallen team on a walk. A walk departs every hour between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with plenty of room for questions, conversations, and mutual sharing of experiences.
Register via this link
Starting point: Nieuwmarkt festival stall
Tom Jongbloed from the popular vlog series 'Ommetje met Tom' takes you on an exclusive stroll past iconic buildings in the Wallen area.
Start times for walk: 13:00 | 14:30
Meeting point: Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
Start your festival weekend right and help clean up the neighborhood. Afterwards, we'll treat you to coffee, tea, and a delicious piece of cake in the Waag! All cleaning materials are provided – you just need to show up.
Register: cleanjul25.eventbrite.nl | Starting point: Nieuwmarkt, at the cafe terrace
Show that you are an involved visitor. Write a card at the Nieuwmarkt promising to respect the city, its residents, and its diversity. A small gesture with meaning.
Nieuwmarkt, at the festival stall
The place for seeds, smart shop items and smoking accessories is going extra big this weekend. Spin the Wheel of Fortune and… Get a royal prize at Royal Queens Seeds!
Damstraat 16
For lovers of comics, manga and collectibles: at Comics you get a 10% discount on the entire range during the Wallenfestival. The perfect time to expand your collection.
Zeedijk 101
Let the FAC Shop team take care of you: glitter, glitter and more glitter! Test your look directly in our fitting room with a disco ball, smoke machine and mini silent disco. More than a make-over: this is a party.
Zeedijk 61s
Creating connects and opens up new worlds. At AHAC you will discover how art and craft contribute to personal growth and pleasure. Come along for workshops, a makers market and an exhibition.
Oudeschans 21
Browse through handmade beauties: ceramics, lampshades, fashion and more – all from their own studio.
Oudeschans 21
Go inside for free at the most exciting toilet in the city. Sexy Loo is an experience you don't want to miss.
Oudezijds Achterburgwal 86
Be surprised by the special collection of CKX Studio: vintage denim, indigo art, handicrafts and unique Native American jewelry. Located in the historic Blaauwlakenblok, where the cloth dyers once worked. During the festival you get a 10% discount on the entire range!
Sint Annenstraat 6
Order via this link and use the discount code ‘Wallen25’ for a 10% discount on coffee and cake at this popular coffee spot.
Oudekerksplein 27
Browse through hundreds of books at Huis de Pinto: from novels and thrillers to cookbooks and art books – all for small prices.
Sint Antoniesbreestraat 69