This year, Amsterdam celebrates a monumental milestone: 750 years since it was granted city rights in 1275. What began as a humble fishing village on the River Amstel has evolved into one of the most progressive, creative, and culturally rich cities in the world.

And this October, as the city hits its celebratory stride, there’s no better time-or place - to experience Amsterdam than at the Pentawards Gala on 4 October at the iconic Kromhouthal. With the official anniversary in October, the city will be alive with creativity, culture and celebration, making for a buzzing atmosphere, it was a no-brainer to hold this year’s Gala Ceremony in Amsterdam. With the Ceremony set at the Kromhouthal, a striking industrial space echoing Amsterdam’s past, right on the IJ river, the Gala is the gateway in to the heart of Amsterdam’s 750th birthday celebrations.

Image by Gaurav Jain

So what’s going on around the city?

- Inspiration everywhere - From open-air art installations and immersive exhibitions to local festivals, the city itself becomes a living gallery. Why not join the NDSM Art Walk – 750xAmsterdam.

- Design exhibitions – As a city filled with endless museums and exhibitions all year round, there’s of course plenty of pop-up events for the 750th year to visit while you’re here. Nxt Museum's ‘Still Processing ’ (running till 5th October) exhibition explores digital culture and AI, The Rijksmuseum has plenty of free exhibitions, including Isamu Noguchi in the gardens and Artus Quellinus – Sculptor of Amsterdam at the Royal Palace.

Image from 750 Amsterdam

- History & Culture – A city filled with history, the 750 year anniversary gives you a chance to learn a bit more about this rich city. Take a stroll down the canal lined streets with one of the historic walking tours or discover the unknown history of Amsterdam at the Storypole Noord.

- Celebratory Moments – From Jazz evenings and roof top views , to the 50th marathon anniversary, the city will be packed with celebratory moments. If you’re planning on making a week of it, on 11 October, 24H Amsterdam – Zuid takes place, where the southern district bursts into life for 24 hours of live music, museum tours, local cuisine, and interactive art.

Image from Tomek Dersu Aaron via 750 Amsterdam

You can find the full schedule of what's going on for 750 Amsterdam here. And keep an eye out for our Gala weekend guide to making the most of your weekend in Amsterdam, coming soon!

An atmosphere not to be missed, the Pentawards Gala is the centerpiece to an extraordinary month of culture, design, music, and community, come and celebrate not only the best in Global design, but the enduring brilliance of Amsterdam itself.

Tickets are on sale now, get them before they sell out!