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Museumplein, just 15 minutes by tram from Hem Hotel Amsterdam, has turned into a Christmas Square like every year, boasting a Christmas market and craft-making displays perfect for passing an afternoon. There is also an ice rink which is open well into the evening. Christmas lights have been up since November, and an evening stroll in any direction from the brightly-illuminated tree in Dam Square can prove a pleasant one, especially through the Leidseplein and its surrounding area or towards the Jordaan, which is full of cosy cafes and unique shops. The Red Light District has Christmas lights of its own (not just red ones!) and seems to never shut down. As it's a great time to visit the city, it's a great time to visit Hem Hotel. Spend your money on shopping rather that on your bed!
Several of the churches around Amsterdam are offering seasonal concerts, both on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Sint Nicolaaskerk (www.muziekindenicolaas.nl), for instance, has free services featuring Gregorian music. The concerts are at 21:00 on 24 December, and 10:30 on 25 and 26 December. Museum Amstelkring, a church located on the top two stories of a canal house in the heart of the Red Light District, is offering Christmas Eve masses at 20:00 and 22:00. Our reception will be pleased to direct you.
Even on Christmas Day several museums will be open. The Rijksmuseum, Anna Frank Huis, FOAM (a photography museum/gallery) and the Torture Museum (www.torturemuseum.nl), are all open, but may have shorter hours. Artis Zoo and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum are open all year, and may be good options if you are travelling with children (although much of the zoo might be cold, there are enclosed and heated displays).