When is it possible?
Usually only during prolonged frost (at least a week of nighttime frost around -5°C or colder, and preferably below freezing during the day).
The ice must be safe: at least 8–10 cm thick for individual skaters, thicker for groups or events.
Popular spots in Friesland: the Frisian lakes (e.g., Nannewijd, Sneekermeer) and, of course, the route of the Elfstedentocht (if it ever returns).
Giethoorn, Loosdrechtse Plassen, Nieuwkoopse Plassen
Ankeveense Plassen, Westeinderplassen, Braassemermeer
Kinderdijk, Reeuwijkse Plassen, Vinkeveense Plassen
In the city: canals in Amsterdam, Delft, Groningen, etc. (often the first to close)
Important rules & safety
Never go alone, especially not in the evening or when the ice first forms.
Always check the ice thickness (app: "Onderweg" from the KNSB or local ice skating clubs).
Only go where the ice skating clubs or municipality have "approved" (often with flags or signs).
When in doubt: stay on the sidelines.
Every year, people still fall through the ice.
Atmosphere
Cookie and hot dogs stalls, hotpot, pea soup, mulled wine, thousands of people on the ice, music; there's something magical about it.
As soon as there's 10–15 cm of ice, the Netherlands practically explodes.
In short: skating on natural ice = cold, tradition, excitement, fun, and a bit of craziness.
We sometimes wait 5–10 years for it, but when it happens, it's unforgettable.
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