On New Year’s Eve, Amsterdam’s city centre around the Nieuwmarkt transforms into one big boisterous party. Starting at around 23:00, city residents flock to the centre armed with as much noisy fireworks as possible. Earplugs can be a blessing! Every square in the city, such as the Dam, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, is full of festivities. The most impressive fireworks are around Amsterdam’s Chinatown: the Nieuwmarkt, Zeedijk and Binnen Bantammerstraat. The Nieuwmarkt—the square surrounding the medieval Waag—has been the heart of New Years celebrations for many years. An insider’s tip: when the clock strikes twelve, the most beautiful fireworks are off the bridge of the Prinsengracht by the Bloemgracht canal, with the symbol of Amsterdam, the Westertoren in the background. - Dam - Nieuwmarkt - Prinsengracht bij Westertoren

For the fifth year, between 21:00 and 02:00, the Damfeest (Dam party) will take place in the heart of Amsterdam. The massive dance party with several well-known DJs is free of charge. The event welcomes some 30,000 visitors each year to the square. The Damfeest in organised by IdtV Events & Promotions, in cooperation with the district of Amsterdam-Centrum.    

In addition to the outdoor festivities on various squares in Amsterdam, several clubs organise New Years Eve parties. More information is available from December onwards at the information offices Amsterdam Tourism & Convention Board (ATCB), tel. 0900 400 40 40 (€ 0,40 p/m)