If you are used to Leidseplein crowded with bar tables and people drinking and chatting… well. it all changes from 15th November until 13th January … with a small but nice ice rink where you can enjoy ice skating … even if temperature is not below freezing point(artificial ice). No need to take your own skates… you can rent them here… for just an apre shopping sport activity :) It is open from 10 in the morning until 11 in the evening and on Saturday and Sunday until midnight. of course with Dutch folk music and Christmas ones… you might find a Santa Claus skating if you are lucky! Not expensive at all, totally worth it … and yes. it gets crowded in the weekend during the evening. You can train and get ready for the real deal when(if) the canals freeze!