1. King’s Day (April, Nationwide): It's a national orange-tastic bash celebrating King Willem Alexander’s birthday. Streets turn into a sea of orange with parties, markets, and boat parades​​.

2. Rotterdam International Film Festival (January, Rotterdam): A cinematic extravaganza where global filmmakers showcase their art. It's a treat for movie buffs and a great way to kick off the year​ ​.

3. Flower Parade (April, Noordwijk to Haarlem): Witness a colourful convoy of flower-adorned floats. It's like Mother Nature decided to throw her own fashion show​​.

4. Gay Pride Amsterdam (August, Amsterdam): A celebration of love and acceptance, with vibrant parades and parties throughout the city. It’s a rainbow extravaganza on the canals​​.

5. Rotterdam Summer Carnival (July, Rotterdam): This Caribbean-style carnival turns the city into a vibrant party with music, parades, and delicious street food​​.

6. Mysteryland Music Festival (August, Haarlemmermeer): A four-day music party where you’ll dance to everything from EDM to pop. Think Coachella but with a Dutch twist​​.

7. Amsterdam Canal Festival (August, Amsterdam): A classical music fest set against the city's iconic canals. It’s like Mozart meets modern Amsterdam​​.

8. Redhead Days (September, Tilburg): A unique celebration where redheads from around the globe unite. It's more than just a hair colour; it's a festival of fiery fun​​.

9. Scheveningen International Fireworks Festival (December, The Hague): A sky-lighting spectacle above the North Sea coast. It’s like New Year’s Eve, but every night of the festival.

10. Sinterklaas (December, Nationwide): The Dutch version of Christmas, where Saint Nicholas brings gifts. It’s festive, fun, and full of Dutch traditions​​.

Nightlife in the Netherlands is like that friend who never runs out of energy – always ready to turn any night into a legendary story! In Amsterdam, the party vibe is as iconic as the city's canals, with hip bars and clubs around every corner. Expect a mix of laid-back brown cafés, where the beer flows like water, and sleek rooftop bars, offering cocktails with a view. And for the night owls, Dutch nightclubs are where the magic happens, with beats that make you dance till dawn. So, whether you're up for a chill night sipping craft beers or a full-blown dance marathon, the Netherlands' nightlife scene has got you covered! Check out these top spots:

• The Flying Dutchman, Amsterdam: Step into this classic brown café for a taste of authentic Dutch gezelligheid and a beer list that's as long as a winter night in the Netherlands.

• De Oude Rechtbank, Eindhoven: This is where hip meets history in a laid-back, uber-cool setting. Once a courthouse, now a buzzing bar, it's the perfect spot for those who like their drinks served with a side of quirky history.

• In de Karkol, Maastricht: Tucked away in the charming streets of Maastricht, this tiny bar is a gem. It's cosy, it's friendly, and it's got a vibe that'll make you feel like a local the moment you step in. Bonus points for the amazing selection of local beers!

• Paradiso, Amsterdam: This former church turned nightclub is where good vibes and great music meet. It's a mix of live concerts and dance nights that'll have you praising the DJ gods.

• TivoliVredenburg, Utrecht: Not just a nightclub, it's a cultural venue that offers everything from indie bands to techno DJs. It's like the Swiss Army knife of nightclubs – there's something for everyone.

In the Netherlands, food is all about gezelligheid, that cozy, convivial feeling that makes every meal feel like a family gathering. Dive into a steaming bowl of stamppot, a hearty mash-up of potatoes and veggies, perfect for those chilly evenings. Or munch on some bitterballen, the ultimate beer companion – think crispy, meaty, and oh-so-dippable. Don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with a stroopwafel, a caramel-filled waffle that's the stuff of dreams. And let’s not even start on the cheese – Gouda, Edam, you name it, they’ve got it.

Restaurant Recommendations:

• De Librije, Zwolle: This Michelin-starred spot is where food becomes art. Chef Jonnie Boer takes you on a gastronomic adventure with innovative dishes that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

• FG Restaurant, Rotterdam: Another Michelin-starred gem, this place is all about bold flavours and experimental cuisine. It's a sensory experience that'll leave your taste buds dancing.

• Het Gebaar, Antwerp: Nestled in a botanical garden, this lunch-only restaurant offers a serene setting paired with stunningly presented dishes. It's a midday escape into culinary heaven.

• Château Neercanne, Maastricht: For a touch of elegance, dine in this historic château. The terraced gardens and exquisite French cuisine make for a truly regal experience.

• Graanmarkt 13, Antwerp: A restaurant, a shop, and a gallery all in one – this place is a celebration of sustainable and local produce, served in a chic, minimalist setting.