If 2012 was the UK’s big one with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics, in 2013 all the glory goes to The Netherlands, and in particular to Amsterdam.
With many anniversaries of landmarks, iconic buildings and people, Amsterdam will be celebrating throughout the year, meaning now is the perfect time to travel Europe and reach Amsterdam.
400 years
This year Amsterdam celebrates 400 years since the beginning of the construction of its canals. Just two years ago they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for their importance to the city.
Celebrations
- An exhibition of 700,000 found historical items during the construction of the canals
- An exhibition of the time Tsar Peter the Great spent in Amsterdam in the 17th & 18th Century in his original lodgings, which have been renamed Tsar Peter House
- The year will close with Winter Magic which will celebrate with light – art, illuminated monuments, parades and concerts
- The annual Canal Festival with live music over 10 days
225 years
The Felix Meritis building is described as a Temple to the Enlightenment.
Celebrations
- The observatory, the oldest in the Netherlands, will be opened for the first time in 200 years
- A series of lectures, exhibitions, educational programmes and guided tours will celebrate this birthday
175 years
Artis Royal Zoo is 175 years old this year. It is the largest park in central Amsterdam and is home to a wide range of animals.
Celebrations
- Natura Artis Magistra – Nature is the master of art and science
- A series of summer evening concerts
160 years
This summer it will be 160 years since Van Gogh’s birth and 40 years since the opening of the museum dedicated to him here.
Celebrations
- An exhibition called Van Gogh at work
125 years
The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, which is based in the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, will be 125 years old.
Celebrations
- The orchestra will tour six continents during 2013
- They will give two jubilee concerts in Amsterdam on 10th April and 3rd November
- They will be guests of honour for the Prinsengrachtconcert celebrating the canals 400th anniversary
- The Concertgebouw will host 12 concerts throughout the year to celebrate a different decade
- The launch of the digital concert hall with live streaming and concert information available 24/7
100 years
The Frans Hals Museum is 100 years old.
Celebrations
- An exhibition of its namesake’s art alongside his contemporaries: Rubens, Rembrandt, Titian, Van Dyck and more
17 years
Amsterdam’s Dance Festival will be 17 this year.
Celebrations
- Bigger than ever with 220 performances by 800 artists in 52 locations
Reopening
The Rijksmuseum will reopen on 14th April after 10 years of renovation. Visitors, 200,000 are expected, will be able to see 8,000 masterpieces in 80 halls.
