This annual literary fest celebrates the diversity of black diva culture and mixes up poetry, theatre, music, art and multimedia. Some – but not all events – are English-spoken.
HIGH TIMES CANNABIS CUP | www.cannabiscup.com
The annual hash bash, laid on by New York-based stoners’ magazine High Times, includes information on all aspects of the versatile cannabis plant, film screenings and live music. The final night's Cannabis Cup Awards weed out the best blow and coffeeshops in town.
IDFA | www.idfa.nl
The annual International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam features international documentaries crammed into intense daily schedules of screenings. Complementing the film screenings there are also a number of lectures, debates, exhibitions, workshops, forums, a documentary market and parties. Reservations are strongly recommended.
SHADOW FILM FESTIVAL | www.shadowfestival.nl
Literally shadowing IDFA, but with the emphasis more on innovative, experimental documentaries, this international festival features documentaries and talks by filmmakers. Often throwing up some surprising gems, the filmmakers are young unknowns who redefine the documentary genre, demonstrating they can be just as exciting as feature films.
MUSEUM NIGHT | www.n8.nl
Over 40 of the city's museums open their doors to the public after hours (from 7pm to 2am), with multimedia performances, theatre, music and parties complementing their diverse collections. Superb.
PAN AMSTERDAM | www.pan-amsterdam.nl
The 'Art and Antiques Fair of the Low Countries' is a veritable treat for either the casual dabbler or more experienced collector.