Once again this year, the BroekerVeiling Museum has been selected as St. Nicholas’s Warehouse. The museum’s storage halls have been transformed into a training center where the Helpers stay in shape, do their chores, and keep the supply of gifts safe.

Sinterklaas Play and Pepernoten

After all that running, jumping, solving puzzles, and tumbling, you’ll definitely need a break. During your visit, you’ll head to the auction hall, where you can watch an exciting Sinterklaas play.

On Wednesday afternoons, you can join a real Bingo boat tour. Plus, the Pakhuis will smell wonderful, because you can help the Pieten bake pepernoten.

Will you come see what’s going on at the Pakhuis? Or join the Pieten for training and help out with all sorts of chores?

When

From Nov. 21, 2026, to Dec. 5, 2026

1. Wednesday 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
2. Saturday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
3. Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Alkmaar is gearing up for “Prachtkerst” on Saturday, December 19. From 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the downtown area will be filled with winter activities, music, shopping, and a festive atmosphere. From the Christmas edition of cozy winter games to a community caroling event and an outdoor movie theater: there’s plenty to enjoy for young and old alike.

A day full of winter fun

Starting at 1:00 p.m., there will be something to discover at various locations in the city center while you shop. On Langestraat, you can join in on winter games, and on the Gewelfde Stenenbrug, music by young talent will be playing.

The Christmas edition of “Knus” will also be setting up shop in the city center. From 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., you can stroll along the Laat and part of Marktstraat, browsing about 60 stalls featuring secondhand clothing, unique finds, and products from local artisans.

Sing Along at the Prachtkerst Sing-a-long

Starting at 4:00 p.m. on the Platte Stenenbrug, a DJ will play Christmas music to get everyone in the mood for the Prachtkerst Sing-a-long. Starting at 5:00 p.m., it’s time to sing along to well-known Christmas carols. The lyrics will appear on large screens, so everyone can join in.

Christmas Movie Under the Stars

After the Sing-a-long, the Platte Stenenbrug will transform into a festive Prachtkerst Outdoor Movie Theater. At 6:15 p.m., a Christmas movie for the whole family will begin. At 8:00 p.m., a second Christmas movie for adults will follow. The titles of the films will be announced later.

A Space for Silence, Comfort, and Connection

There’s also room for other emotions during the month of December. From December 12 through 27, the “Mourning & Celebrating” tent will be set up on Canadaplein. It’s a warm, welcoming space where visitors can reflect on loss and grief, light a candle, leave a message, or talk with a volunteer.

The greenhouse will be officially opened on Friday, December 11. At the same time, the lights on the Cheese Christmas Tree will be lit. The Christmas season will be festively kicked off with music, a contribution from the city poet, and the presence of the Alkmaar cheese bearers.

Shops and restaurants join in the Prachtkerst celebrations

Alkmaar’s business owners are also contributing to the festive atmosphere in the city center. Shops, restaurants, and other businesses are organizing various activities around the holidays and ensuring there’s something to do everywhere during Prachtkerst.

From Christmas shopping and thrift store finds to singing together, listening to music, and watching a movie: Prachtkerst brings the city together and fills the downtown area with a warm winter atmosphere.

New Year’s Eve in Alkmaar is going to be magical this year! This year, the city of Alkmaar is pulling out all the stops with no fewer than four New Year’s Eve shows on December 31, 2026. Expect lights, music, special effects, and above all: fun and togetherness. For young and old—and everyone in between.

The shows have been specially designed for families and a broad audience. A complete experience where lights, music, and the theme of connection come together. Performers, activities, surprises… more details will be revealed step by step in the coming weeks.

A festive moment when we count down together and welcome the new year. Whether you come with your children, with friends, or with the whole neighborhood, this will be an evening not to be missed. Together, we’ll ensure a festive, safe, and unforgettable start to 2026.

→ DOWNTOWN | KANAALKADE/NOORDERKADE

Laser show

→ ALKMAAR NORTH | REKERHOUT/THIJSSEPAD

Laser Show

→ GRAFT-DE RIJP | MINCKELERSSTRAAT

Laser Show