This unique classical music event is one of the most popular festivals in Amsterdam, much loved by Amsterdammers. From its beginnings in 1997, it has grown to become an Amsterdam institution, and now offers a week-long programme of chamber music, opera classics, music from around the world as well as master classes. Recitals are performed by established musicians, ensembles, renowned soloists as well as the best of new young talent. This year the Grachtenfest offers an impressive number of concerts in exciting and unique locations throughout the city. This includes national monuments such as the Anne Frank House and the Westerkerk as well as beautiful private gardens. The highlight is, of course, the floating barge open air concert on the final Saturday evening (23rd).
This year features nine days of music from Saturday 16th to Sunday 24th August 2008. Festival Highlight: Open air Prinsengracht concert on Saturday 23rd at 20.00 Photographs courtesy of Ronald Knapp(copyright)
The festival culminates in the magical (and enormously popular) Prinsengrachtconcert on Saturday evening – 23rd August. It has now become a yearly ritual that practically every boat in Amsterdam squeezes onto the Prinsengracht canal, while thousands line the bridges and canal sides to watch and listen to the performances from the open air stage-pontoon outside the Pulitzer Hotel (Prinsengracht 315-331) in the heart of the charming Nine Streets district of Amsterdam. This year’s programme is expected to begin at 20.00.
The Prinsengracht concert is free of charge but you should come early to secure the best canalside viewing spots. Bring blankets to sit on, and ideally some drinks and a picnic... It is worth the wait - you won’t be disappointed.
If you are planning to get there early to book your place, why not take turns to visit our featured shops while you wait? View our Nine Streets shopping guide for more information.
More Grachtenfestival information? For the full agenda, details of tickets, and more information, visit the Grachtenfest website…
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