Local events

A sculpture garden tucked away on the outskirts of the quaint town of Borculo. When you pass by, you’d never guess the surprising size and location of this unique sculpture garden or the extraordinary sculptures created by Louise and Dolf Bierhuizen. The ceramics are made by Louise and the wood sculptures by Dolf. Every sculpture in the garden has its own story. This special sculpture garden can be visited by appointment, including for groups. Admission is free.

On Saturday 3 October 2026, the historic Grote of Sint Gudulakerk in Lochem will once again be the venue for ‘Lochem met Smaak’, the town’s annual wine festival. During this atmospheric event, wine specialists from across the Netherlands will present an extensive range of exceptional wines, from crisp whites and elegant rosés to full-bodied reds and sparkling wines. Visitors can taste, discover and chat with the wine connoisseurs at their own pace. Alongside wine, gastronomy also plays an important role. Local restaurants, delicatessens and other regional suppliers will serve complementary canapés, bringing wine and local produce together in a convivial and indulgent atmosphere.

Step back in time during the Battle of Grolle, one of the largest historical events in the Netherlands. In the fortified town of Groenlo, the famous siege from the Eighty Years’ War is re-enacted by hundreds of re-enactors from home and abroad. Visitors can experience impressive battles, military encampments, craft demonstrations, historical markets and parades. The event showcases what life was like in the seventeenth century and offers a unique combination of history, spectacle and hands-on experiences for young and old alike. The Battle of Grol traditionally takes place on the third weekend of October and attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Groenlo. Thanks to the authentic costumes, historical weapons and extensive encampments, you really feel as though you have been transported back to the time of Prince Frederick Henry and the Battle of Grol.

Step back in time to 19th-century England during the Dickens Festival in Deventer. In the historic Bergkwartier district, more than 900 characters from Charles Dickens’ famous stories come to life. Meet iconic figures such as Scrooge, Oliver Twist and the Christmas Carol Singers as you stroll through atmospheric, illuminated streets filled with music, street theatre, crafts and winter treats. For one weekend, the entire district is transformed into a living open-air theatre where visitors can imagine themselves in a different era. The Dickens Festival takes place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December 2026 and is one of the best-known and most-visited Christmas events in the Netherlands.

During the Winterfestijn, Zutphen is transformed into a true winter spectacle. On this day you can enjoy atmospheric shopping in the city center, enjoy the best Christmas stalls, live music, the best street theater, attractions for children and food trucks. Sunday, December 13rd is the best day of the year for young and old. The streets and stores are decorated with thousands of lights and Christmas trees. On the heated terraces you will enjoy the most delicious food and drinks, and at the Christmas market you will find the nicest surprises and atmospheric Christmas accessories. Rather fancy some excitement? Go in one of the attractions and look out over Zutphen from a great height or glide across the ice on the Zaadmarkt. Winterfestijn is open from 12:00 to 18:00 and is free to enter. Are you ready for a magical day out in Zutphen?