Planning your Ascension Day on Thursday, May 25, 2017? Discover curated tips, events, and family-friendly outings to make it unforgettable. From lively festivals to cultural markets, here's your guide to the best activities nationwide.
Similar to Pentecost celebrations, Ascension Day features festivals and events throughout the Netherlands, ideal for families. Young and old alike will find engaging activities. Dive into our handpicked selection of top events for 2017.
From Thursday, May 25, to Sunday, May 28, Breda buzzes with the Jazz Festival. Enjoy 175 performances across 16 stages, featuring Dutch and international artists for diverse audiences.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: City center, Breda
Time: All day
Admission: See website (varies by genre)
Kasteelfeesten Wijchen runs from Wednesday, May 24, to Saturday, May 27, 2017. The castle grounds transform into a festival site with Dutch music, Hakoena Theater School shows, and age-appropriate kids' activities.
When: Wednesday, May 24 to Saturday, May 27, 2017
Where: Wijchen Castle, Kasteellaan 9, Wijchen
Time: See website
Admission: See website
Keidagen in Lochem spans Wednesday, May 24, to Sunday, May 28, 2017. Street theater, a funfair, live music, and the traditional ball shooting tournament create family fun amid festive stalls.
When: Wednesday, May 24 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: City center, Lochem
Time: All day (Thursday from 8 a.m.)
Admission: Free (fair attractions extra)
The Woudrichem Festival Weekend offers over 100 stalls, music, a kids' flea market, fish fry championship, and more in the historic center from Thursday, May 25, to Saturday, May 27, 2017.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Saturday, May 27, 2017
Where: City center, Woudrichem
Time: Wed 1:00–11:00 PM; Thu 12:00–6:00 PM; Fri 1:00–11:00 PM; Sat 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Hoogte 80 Theater Festival in Arnhem, Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017, features theater, short films, live music, kids' story tent, and crafts—entertainment for everyone.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: Zaslaan, Arnhem
Time: All day
Admission: Free
On Ascension Day, Thursday, May 25, 2017, Oldtimer Festival Axel includes a tour, puzzle ride, classic car viewing, flea market, live entertainment, food, drinks, and kids' attractions like a clown.
When: Thursday, May 25, 2017
Where: Szylowski Square, Axel
Time: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free (rally registration: €15.00)
The Dutch Juggling Festival, Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017, offers street performances and workshops for all ages at Sporthal de Wissel, Goirle.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: Sporthal de Wissel, De Schietberg 8, Goirle
Time: Thu 12:00–9:00 PM; Fri 8:00 AM–12:00 AM; Sat 8:00 AM–1:00 AM; Sun 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Day ticket from €6.00 (camping available; see website)
Soestdijk Summer Fair at the palace, Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017, includes workshops, shopping, palace tours, and dining—perfect for families.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: Soestdijk Palace, Amsterdamsestraatweg 1, Baarn
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €16.50; €7.50 (7-12 years); Free (under 7)
Thursday, May 25, 2017: Bloemetjesmarkt Leeuwarden combines flowers with a massive annual market of hundreds of stalls.
When: Thursday, May 25, 2017
Where: City center, Leeuwarden
Time: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Thursday, May 25, 2017: Annual Market Den Hout features a run, artist performances, theater, and kids' attractions.
When: Thursday, May 25, 2017
Where: Houtse Heuvel, Den Hout
Time: Run 6:00 AM; activities 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €3.50; €1.50 (children)
Thursday, May 25–Friday, May 26, 2017: Shop ceramics, join activities; kids enjoy clay workshops and face painting.
When: Thursday, May 25–Friday, May 26, 2017
Where: Market, Gouda
Time: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Starting Thursday, May 25, to Sunday, May 28, 2017: Cycle through stunning landscapes in the Groene Hart and Randstad.
When: Thursday, May 25 to Sunday, May 28, 2017
Where: Groene Hart, Randstad
Time: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: €10.00; €6.00 (children up to 12)
Share your tips or additions for Ascension Day 2017 in the comments below.
