Head to Holland for October festival fun

As late October approaches two of Amsterdam’s most exciting 2009 events – Halloween and Holland’s annual beer festival – are looming.

Between Friday 30 October and Sunday 1 November 2009 the PINT Bokbierfestival takes place at Amsterdam’s Beurs van Berlage building, showcasing the fine Dutch art of beer-making. The event will offer over 12,000 beer enthusiasts the chance to enjoy a variety of premium local brews, including 50 varieties of the dark coloured seasonal Bock beer, and pan-European brews as well as live musical entertainment. Entry from 8 euros per person (iamsterdam.com/en).

The same weekend, on 31 October, Boom Chicago's ninth annual Halloween extravaganza takes place at Amsterdam’s Leidseplein Theater. Certain to send even the most die-hard horror fanatics’ pulses racing, the 2009 “Bash and Slash” event will offer a knockout DJ line-up and 500 euros’ worth of prizes for the best costumes. This year’s event will be turned into a film, with B-grade special effects. Tickets from 18.50 euros in advance (boomchicago.nl/en).

The most direct route to Holland from southern England is with leading ferry operator Stena Line, which offers twice-daily six-hour crossings from Harwich to the Hook of Holland. From the Hook of Holland Amsterdam is only an hour’s drive away. Fares start from just £49 one-way for a driver and car, plus £11 per additional adult. Cabins for overnight crossings start from £18 per person one-way, based on two sharing.

To make a booking visit stenaline.co.uk, or visit your local travel agent.