Video Credit: @RamonMesman

A massive blaze tore through the 154-year-old Vondelkerk in the heart of Amsterdam in the early hours of January 1, 2026, in what eyewitness videos show as fireworks exploding on the church roof just after midnight, igniting the inferno that ultimately destroyed the historic neo-Gothic landmark.
The fire, which broke out around 00:50 local time, quickly consumed the church — part of the roof and tower collapsed as emergency services battled the blaze amid plumes of thick smoke and showers of sparks. Nearby residences were evacuated as NL-Alerts urged people to stay indoors
This devastating incident occurred amid widespread New Year’s violence across the Netherlands, where despite existing restrictions on personal fireworks, widespread illegal use fueled chaos nationwide. Police described an “unprecedented amount of violence” against officers and emergency workers as the country marked what was to be the last legal night for consumer fireworks before a 2026 national ban
Authorities confirmed at least two deaths in separate fireworks incidents — a 17-year-old boy and a 38-year-old man — with multiple serious injuries reported and around 250 arrests made as emergency calls and fire reports surged across major cities.
As investigations continue into the exact cause of the Vondelkerk blaze, initial reports link the fire to illegal fireworks activity during the chaotic New Year’s celebrations that have reignited debate over the effectiveness and enforcement of upcoming nationwide fireworks bans.