Hotels near World Christmas Circus at Carré

The World Christmas Circus (Wereldkerstcircus) at the Royal Theatre Carré is a long-running Amsterdam family tradition, bringing award-winning circus artists from around the world to the city each holiday season. The grand 19th-century theatre on the Amstel was originally built for the circus, so the setting is perfect.

The show usually runs from mid-December into early January; in 2025 it continued until 4 January. Check Carré's website for 2026 dates and performance times.

Tickets sell quickly for the days around Christmas, so it is worth booking well ahead. It makes a warm, indoor counterpart to an evening at the Amsterdam Christmas market on Museumplein, especially on a cold or rainy night.

Pro Tip: Book a matinee if you are visiting with children, then walk along the Amstel to see the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), which is lit up after dark, about five minutes away.