April in Amsterdam - Weather and Event Guide

April Overview:

• Pros:
  
  • Depending on weather, flowers and trees are usually in bloom this month.
    
    
  • As the Amsterdammers shed winter layers, cafés begin seating terraces and the city starts making Queen's Day preparations (the color orange takes over windows and shops).
    
    
  • By the end of the month, the sun doesn't set until after 9 p.m.
• Cons:
  
  • Airlines and hotels often bump up prices as tourists come for "tulip season" and Queen's Day.
    
    
  • If you hate crowds, stay far from Amsterdam on April 30 (Queen's Day). It's wall-to-wall people all over the city!

April Weather:

• Temperatures & Rain:
  
  • Average high: 55°F (12.8°C)
    
    
  • Average low: 38°F (3.3°C)
    
    
  • Average precipitation: 2.1 in (53 mm)
    
    
  • In true spring form, April weather can include everything from sunny, 60-degree days to fast-moving clouds that bring not only rain but cold wind. The key: be prepared for anything and join in as Amsterdammers soak up any springtime sun they can get.
• Sunrise / Sunset:
  
  • April 1 - 7:17 a.m. / 8:14 p.m.
    
    
  • April 30 - 6:13 a.m. / 9:04 p.m.
    

April Packing Suggestions:

• Umbrella: While April is not Amsterdam's rainiest month, there is always a chance for precipitation. Be prepared for rain, even if the sun is out when you start your day!
  
  
• Windproof, waterproof jacket: See above.
  
  
• Layers of clothing: The best way to deal with Amsterdam's ever-changing weather is to layer your clothes. Bring a light sweater to warm up when the sun goes down (or behind a cloud).
  
  
• Comfortable walking shoes: These are always a must on Amsterdam's cobbled streets. Waterproof shoes are even better!
  
  
• Day bag/pack: You'll need something to hold your layers, among other things.

April Highlights:

• Festivals & Events:
  
  • Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival
    Annual; 10 days in mid-April (2008 dates: April 9-20)
    
    
  • Keukenhof Gardens Are Open
    Annual; mid-to-late March until Mid-to-late May (2008 dates: March 20-May 18)
    Arguably one of the world's most spectacular planned gardens, this park in nearby Lisse, Holland, showcases seven million blooming bulbs on its grounds and countless other floral displays in many indoor pavilions. These pictures say more than any words could about the gardens' stunning, fairytale-like beauty.
    
    
  • World Press Photo Exhibit
    Annual; late April until mid-June (2008 dates: April 29-June 22)
    Every year, Amsterdam's Oude Kerk ("Old Church") hosts this world-renowned and much-anticipated exhibition of award-winning and often shocking photojournalism.
    
    
  • Koninginnedag (Queen's Day)
    Annual; April 30
    Featuring bands on every open square, a citywide sidewalk sale and more than two million people partying in the streets, April 30 marks the (former) queen's birthday and Amsterdam's biggest annual celebration.
    
• Spectator Sports:
  • Ajax Amsterdam Football Club
    Season runs late August - late April
    Spend a Sunday amongst frenzied fans of the famous Ajax Amsterdam voetbal (football) team. The local soccer heroes play in the impressive, modern ArenA south of the city.