Free Events in October

You may have seen it in your favorite Japanese series or anime: a Bunka-Sai, which translates to "cultural festival," is an event organized by Japanese schools in autumn. Students perform plays, make music, and showcase their art. Classrooms are transformed into temporary restaurants.

The school building where the SAKB Art Studio is located is not just an art center, but also a place where the Japanese community (Jacop) organizes various activities, such as tea ceremonies and workshops on Japanese dance. It's the perfect location to bring this Japanese tradition to the Netherlands.

On this day, you’ll find Japanese snacks like matcha and bento boxes, along with sweet treats to enjoy. There will also be various activities, including free workshops, a children's bazaar, live performances by students, a flea market, and much more.

Bunka-Sai Amstelveen

In the mood for a night full of music? For almost 15 years, Rock Urbanus has been a night filled with performances by bands with roots in Bovenkerk. And while the name might make you think only of rock, it's more than just “rock around the clock.” All genres will be featured throughout the evening. This year’s lineup includes John Spijker Trio, Itchycoo Park, Wanda and the Bovenkerk Boys, Too Simple, and Almost Famous.

Best of all: not only is entry free, but there will also be free bitterballen served!

Culture and sports come together at the new Culture Kick festival. Don’t expect to be playing basketball with a disco ball, though! The festival focuses on the intersection of these two worlds, with activities and workshops around themes such as sports photography, theater sports, and breakdancing.

For example, in a stage fighting workshop, you’ll learn how action films choreograph fight scenes without real punches being thrown. It’s not quite the same as a boxing match, but it’s also not like a dance show routine either. This is just one of the many free workshops and activities you can enjoy.

Check out the program (Not all events are in English)

For many in Amstelveen, the Diwali Festival has become a yearly tradition. This year marks the sixteenth edition, and they’ll be celebrating with a big party, just as they do every year.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the victory of good over evil. It’s the most important and widely celebrated festival across India.

As in previous years, Stadsplein will be transformed into a festival ground with colorful stalls, authentic Indian food, and a stage full of music and dance. It’s a packed program, whether you're there to enjoy the atmosphere, the delicious food, or to do some fun Diwali shopping.

Check out the program

In October, Café de Buren in the Oude Dorp will host two evenings of jazz and blues. On October 6, Victor Posch & his Jamm Company will lead an energetic jam session, while on October 27, you can enjoy the soulful sounds of the Ber van Haaster duo.

Expect soulful music, touching blues ballads, and danceable funk.