Festival season has started and that means tons of outdoor activities and relaxing under the sun! Below a few of our local finds filled with music, food and fun entertainment for children and parents alike!
Buitengewoon kinderfestival
While the very first edition of this fabulous festival for kids was held at the Veerplas last year, this year they have chosen to bring their crafting workshops, theatrical acts and more fun and games to De Lakens.
Date: Saturday June 15th
Time: 12:00 – 20:00
Address: Camping de Lakens, Zeeweg 60, 2051 EC in Overveen
Costs: €5 for children 0-3 years of age, €15 for 4-14 year olds and €10 for adults (servicecosts not included)
Website: kinderfestivalhaarlem.nl
Houtfestival
Music from all over the world can be heard all through the park at this alternative festival. With its laid back vibe, there is storytelling and several theatrical plays that are suitable for children as well. And of course food and drinks are served as well.
Date: Sunday June 16
Time: 12:00-23:00
Location: Haarlemmerhout in Haarlem
Costs: Free admission
Website: houtfestival.nl/
Borrelpop
As the sun sets, the music plays in the background and with a glass of wine you close out the day. The perfect “borrel”night! The bar serves beer and wine, while the kids get to enjoy lemonade or appeljuice. Need something to nibble? There are plenty of yummy snacks served at the Foodtainer.
Date: June 1, July 18, July 25, August 1, August 8, August 15
Time: 16:00
Address: Camping de Lakens, Zeeweg 60, 2051 EC in Overveen
Costs: Free admission
Website: campingdelakens.nl/recreatie/activiteiten/activiteit/1704/Borrelpop
Eten op rolletjes
Several food trucks and drinks are spread throughout the Waarderpolder. Not quite familiar with these surroundings yet? This is your chance! All while enjoying yummy food, live music and theatrical plays.
Date: June 28-30th
Time: Friday 16:00-23:00, Saturday 13:00-23:00 and Sunday 13:00-22:00pm
Address: De Lichtfabriek in Haarlem
(coming by bike, go to the Kicksmitweg. by car, go to the Mincklersweg)
Costs: free admission
Website: etenoprolletjes.nl/haarlem-2019/
Zomer in de Zaanen
Known as a neighborhood get-together gone wild, this lovely neighborhood festival in Haarlem-Noord is full of live entertainment, lots of activities for kids, yummy snacks and drinks. The entire organization is done by locals.
Date: Saturday June 29th
Time: 14:00-23:00
Address: between Zaanenlaan, Orionweg and Mercuriusstraat in Haarlem
Costs: Free admission
Website: zomerindezaanen.nl/
Parksessies
One of the most known festivals around, this festival is perfect for the whole family. Bring your own blanket and picnic basket, and relax while enjoying the music, yummy food, and art entertainment.
Date: July 17-20th
Time: all-day event
Address: Haarlemmerhout in Haarlem
Costs: Free admission
Website: facebook.com/Parksessies
Proefpark
Looking for a way to get your child to try different types of food? Well this is it! From the relaxed vibe, to the live entertainment, theatrical plays, and tons of activities for kids. They even get to bake their own bread!
Date: August 23-25th
Time: Friday 16:00-23:00, Saturday 12:00-23:00 and Sunday 12:00-20:00
Address: Kenaupark in Haarlem
Costs: Free admission
Website: proefparkhaarlem.nl
Schalkwijk aan zee
Lots of music, theatre, sports and entertainment at the Molenplas.
Date: Sunday September 1
Time: 12:00-19:00
Address: Waertmolenpad in Haarlem
Costs: Free admission
Website: schalkwijkaanzee.nl (not live yet)
Surfana
The ultimate beachvibe for young and old! Several workshops are in both Dutch and English. From surf clinics to crafts and even yoga for kids, this festival is perfect for locals and expats alike.
Date: September 6, 7 & 8
Time: all day event
Address: Camping de Lakens, Zeeweg 60, 2051 EC in Overveen
Costs: starting at €14 for kids all-day ticket, and €29 for adults
Website: surfana.com/festival
Text and pictures Proefpark: Nicoline van Slingelandt
Translated by: Fatima Fazli-Vermeulen
Pictures Houtfestival: Eva Cameron-Bakker
