Frisians rank among the happiest and healthiest people in the Netherlands, thanks in part to their deep connection with water. Research consistently links waterfront living to improved mental health, and with Friesland and the Wadden Islands boasting vast coastlines and over 50% water coverage, it's no wonder locals aspire to Blue Zone status. Discover these 7 standout water events from Live the Water 2020.
Other.Worldly, Fries Museum
Explore the mysterious underwater realm at the Fries Museum through stunning exhibits capturing its beauty, terror, and wonder. The centerpiece is Osedax by Edgar Cleijne and Ellen Gallagher—a hypnotic installation journeying past oil rigs, mythical sea creatures, and swaying marine life.
February 15 to January 3, 2021 – Leeuwarden
Sunken Treasures, Princessehof Ceramics Museum
Divers' discoveries from historic shipwrecks reveal tales of Asia's Maritime Silk Road—international trade, sea battles, human smuggling, and treasure hunts—in this captivating ceramics exhibition.
Until June 28 – Leeuwarden
100 Years Woudagemaal UNESCO World Heritage
This world's oldest operational steam pumping station remains vital to Frisian water management, pumping excess water during floods to keep feet dry. Witness spectacular steaming demonstrations on announced shooting days via the website.
Open year-round – Lemmer
11 Fountains
Celebrating the iconic Elfstedentocht skating tour amid climate uncertainties, Leeuwarden-Fryslân's European Capital of Culture initiative features 11 artist-designed fountains in each of the Eleven Cities, drawing on Frisian heritage.
March to October (Leeuwarden and Dokkum fountains year-round).
HT Rowboat Race
The 46th edition of this grueling 32km race sees 140 sloops row from Harlingen to Terschelling across the Wadden Sea—one of the Netherlands' toughest rowing challenges. Spectators thrill from start in Harlingen or finish on Terschelling.
Friday, May 22 – Harlingen, Terschelling
75 Years Skûtsjesilen, Frisian Maritime Museum
Skûtsjesilen defines Friesland's sailing heritage. The SKS celebrates 75 years with a special exhibition at the Frisian Maritime Museum in Sneek, immersing visitors in this competitive world. Championships follow in late July.
June 5 to August 30, 2020 – Sneek
Wadopera: The Story of Fisherman Peter Grimes
Against the UNESCO Wadden Sea backdrop, this epic opera features 180+ performers recounting 19th-century English coastal drama. Coroner Swallow questions fisherman Peter Grimes over his cabin boy's death in a tight-knit village rife with prejudice.
September 2020 – Paesens Moddergat
Oyster Walks
Join local expert Gerrit, an islander, beachcomber, and fisherman, on the Wad at low tide. Learn the tides, wildlife, and edibles; harvest your own oysters, then savor them in the beachcombing garden with fresh pairings.
Vlieland
Discover more events at friesland.nl/water and wadtodo.nl/water.
