The summer isn’t over yet! August has arrived and with it brings the promise of good weather and loads of events and festivals to enjoy in the sunshine. Here’s what everyone who lives and works in the Netherlands needs to know about in August 2024.

1. Dutch schools reopen after summer holidays

In August, summer holidays are set to come to an end for schools across the Netherlands. Children who attend schools in the Central and South regions of the country will be returning to classes on August 25 and August 18 respectively. 

2. Canal Parade for Pride Amsterdam

Closing off Pride Amsterdam with a bang, the Canal Parade taking place on Saturday, August 3, is the cherry on top of a fabulous event in the Dutch capital. With more than 80 decorated boats sailing along the canals in Amsterdam and thousands of cheering spectators, it’s no wonder that the parade is considered the highlight of Pride. 

3. Loveland and Lowlands festivals return to the Netherlands

One of the biggest names in the Dutch festival calendar, Loveland, returns to the Dutch capital this month. On August 10 and 11, the major dance music festival once again takes over Sloterpark!

Another of the Netherlands' most famous festivals, Lowlands, is also taking place later this month. Between August 16 and 18, hundreds of acts will take to the various stages at this three-day festival, taking place on the grounds of Walibi Holland - one of the biggest Dutch theme parks.

4. Biggest book market in Europe takes place in Deventer

August 4 is the perfect time for avid readers to add to their libraries as the Deventer Book Market makes another appearance. As the biggest book market in Europe, the 870 stalls covering six kilometres will have plenty of Dutch, English and even German books on offer. 

5. Zandvoort gears up for the Dutch Grand Prix

From August 23-25, the Dutch coastal town of Zandvoort will once again be taken over by the F1 world for the Zandvoort Grand Prix. Everyone will flock to the race track to see whether Max Verstappen can hold on to his winning streak and claim the number one spot on home soil for the fourth year in a row.

6. Perseid meteor shower active over the Netherlands

While the evenings are still warm enough to enjoy a nighttime stroll, you could take the opportunity to gaze up at the stars and perhaps catch a glimpse of a meteor shower. On August 12 to 13, the Perseids meteor shower will peak, giving you the best chance to see up to 100 meteors an hour.

Thumb image credit: kivnl / Shutterstock.com