What to Experience in Scheveningen: Events & Activities
Below, you'll find our selection of the finest events in Scheveningen and the surrounding region. Especially in the summer, there are almost daily festivities, ranging from markets and folklore to music performances and sporting events. Yet, even outside the summer season, there's plenty to enjoy in terms of varied activities.
Crossing Border Festival
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The Crossing Border Festival in The Hague is one of Europe’s most innovative literature and music festivals. Every year in November, the city centre of The Hague transforms for four days into a vibrant stage for the written, spoken and sung word. What can you expect at Crossing Border? - International Headliners: Big ...
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Ice Rink
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Every winter, Scheveningen transforms into a magical winter paradise during the Cool Event. Right on the Kurhausplein, a covered ice rink of no less than 600 m² sparkles, with the iconic Kurhaus hotel in the background. What can you expect at the Ice Rink in Scheveningen? - Covered Ice Rink: Enjoy weeks of skating fun on ...
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Market
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In Scheveningen there is a neighbourhood market every Thursday in the Stevinstraat, in the Belgisch Park district between Badhuisweg and Gentsestraat, all year round. What can you expect at the market in Scheveningen? - Thursday: Stevinstraat, from 9am to 5pm, all year. - What's on offer: fruit and vegetables, bread, ...
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Arrival of Sinterklaas
In mid November, the harbour of Scheveningen turns into a sea of excitement as Sinterklaas arrives on the Pakjesboot 070. The arrival in the Second Harbour is the Saint's official arrival in The Hague. Children and adults gather along the quay to wave at the saint and his Pieten, after which the procession continues to the ...
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Light Walk
On Saturday evening 21 November 2026 you walk through Scheveningen in the dark during the Light Walk voor KWF. With your walk you support the Dutch cancer charity KWF. What can you expect at the Light Walk voor KWF? It is an atmospheric evening walk along the sea and through the dunes. - Three distances: choose from 5 km, ...
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Royal Christmas Fair, The Hague
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In the heart of the historic centre of The Hague, the enchanting Royal Christmas Fair takes place every December. This annual Christmas market, located at the iconic Lange Voorhout, has grown into one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the Netherlands. Entry is completely free! What can you expect? - Fairy-tale ...
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Grand Christmas Circus
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The Grand Christmas Circus in The Hague has been a cherished Christmas tradition on the Malieveld for more than 25 years and is one of the oldest and largest Christmas circuses in the Netherlands. What can you expect at the Grand Christmas Circus in The Hague? Each year a completely new family show is presented, making a ...
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Bonfire
End the year with seaside spectacle during the annual Bonfire of Joy in Scheveningen. This centuries-old tradition brings thousands together on the North Beach to celebrate New Year's Eve with an awe-inspiring fire display. What can you expect at the Bonfire of Joy in Scheveningen? - Giant Bonfire of Joy: From 27 ...
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2027
New Year's Day plunge
Start the new year with a bracing dip in the North Sea at the Unox Nieuwjaarsduik in Scheveningen. The next edition takes place on Friday 1 January 2027, with the dive at 12 noon. In a good year around 10,000 people take the plunge here, making it the largest New Year's dive in the Netherlands. What can you expect at the ...
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Market
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In Scheveningen there is a neighbourhood market every Thursday in the Stevinstraat, in the Belgisch Park district between Badhuisweg and Gentsestraat, all year round. What can you expect at the market in Scheveningen? - Thursday: Stevinstraat, from 9am to 5pm, all year. - What's on offer: fruit and vegetables, bread, ...
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City-Pier-City Run
Every year in early March, the city of The Hague comes to life with the City-Pier-City Run, one of the most atmospheric running events in the Netherlands. This event annually attracts thousands of participants of all ages, who together take on the challenge of the half marathon and shorter distances. What can you expect ...
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Shell Counting Day
During Shell Counting Day, we head en masse to the beaches to count shells! At the previous edition on Saturday 21 March 2026, around 190,000 shells were counted along the entire North Sea coast, more than 108,000 of them in the Netherlands. In 2027 there will be another count on various beaches in the Netherlands. The ...
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Dune March
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The annual Duinenmars in Kijkduin, near Scheveningen, is the walking event for young and old, full of fun and beautiful nature. This two-day walking march takes place every year on a Saturday and Sunday, attracting thousands of participants, from enthusiastic walkers to families looking for a fun day out. What can you ...
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Funfair in The Hague
April
Every April, the magic of the Fair comes to life at the Malieveld in The Hague. This expansive field in the heart of the city transforms into a bustling festival full of colour, light, and joy, attracting visitors of all ages. What can you expect at the Fair on the Malieveld? - A Spectacle of Attractions: With nearly a ...
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King's Night and King's Day in The Hague and Scheveningen
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On 26 and 27 April, The Hague turns orange. On King's Night the city centre hosts a big free music festival, and on King's Day there are flea markets, games and music in the city and in Scheveningen. What can you expect? - King's Night: The free festival The Life I Live with stages in the city centre, including the Lange ...
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Lifeboat Day
Each year, the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue Institution (KNRM) opens the doors of its rescue stations during the annual Lifeboat Day. This event offers a unique opportunity to take a peek behind the scenes. What's on at Lifeboat Day? - Educational Activities: Learn all about the rescue work and the equipment used, ...
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North Sea Regatta
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The North Sea Regatta is the largest sailing event along the Dutch North Sea coast. This annual spectacle offers not only competitive races but also a vibrant social programme ashore. There is plenty to experience for young and old, so make sure to be there! What can you expect during the North Sea Regatta? - Exciting ...
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Liberation Festival in The Hague
On 5 May, The Hague celebrates freedom in grand style during the free Liberation Festival on the iconic Malieveld. Alongside thirteen other cities, the Royal City commemorates the end of the Second World War and highlights the importance of freedom worldwide. What can you expect on the Malieveld? - Atmospheric music ...
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National Mill Day
The National Windmill Day, held annually on a weekend in May, is the perfect opportunity to admire hundreds of working windmills across the Netherlands up close. Since 1973, this event has celebrated our country’s rich windmill heritage and paid tribute to these iconic structures. What can you expect during the National ...
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Bunker Day
Along the coast of Scheveningen, traces of the Second World War can still be found. Dive into the past and experience history up close during Bunker Day, a unique event that opens the doors to the hidden bunkers along the Dutch coast. From Zeeland to the Wadden Islands, discover the remnants of the Second World War and the Atlantic Wa ...
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Aircooled Scheveningen
End of May
Every May, the boulevard of Scheveningen transforms into a true paradise for classic Volkswagen enthusiasts. During Aircooled Scheveningen, you can admire hundreds of air-cooled vintage cars in a unique seaside setting. What can you expect at Aircooled Scheveningen? - Oldtimer Show: Hundreds of classic VWs, from ...
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HipFest
Every June, the free pop festival HipFest takes over the heart of Scheveningen. On a Friday evening, well-known acts, up-and-coming bands and young talent play in the Keizerstraat, the most historic shopping street in Scheveningen, less than 50 metres from the North Sea. What can you expect at HipFest? - Several stages: ...
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Vlaggetjesdag (New Herring Day)
Early June
Vlaggetjesdag Every year on a Saturday in June, the harbour of Scheveningen transforms into a lively festival ground during Vlaggetjesdag (New Herring Day), a traditional Dutch celebration marking the arrival of the first Hollandse Nieuwe herring (maatjes). What began as a farewell for fishing boats decorated with flags ...
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De Parade
Early July
Every summer, the travelling theatre festival De Parade arrives in the idyllic Westbroekpark in The Hague. This beautiful park, located in the district of Scheveningen, transforms into a vibrant open-air theatre full of surprises, culture and atmosphere. What can you expect at De Parade in The Hague? - Unique Theatre ...
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The Hague African Festival
Zomer
Since 2008, The Hague has celebrated African culture every summer at The Hague African Festival. A free celebration for young and old, with music, dance and encounters. What can you expect at The Hague African Festival? - Music: Performances by artists from Africa and The Hague's diaspora. - Dance and fashion: Dance ...
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Annual Market
End of April
The annual Markets on the Boulevard of Scheveningen have been a beloved tradition since 2007. Six weekends a year, the Boulevard transforms into a vibrant marketplace full of fun, diversity, and delightful aromas. A perfect opportunity for a day out with the whole family! What can you expect at the Markets? - A Row of ...
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Zeeheldenfestival
The Zeeheldenfestival is an annual four-day celebration in the lively Zeeheldenkwartier of The Hague. What started as a small neighbourhood party in 1981 has grown into a vibrant city festival full of music, street theatre, delicious food and fun for kids. What can you expect at the Zeeheldenfestival? - Live Music: From ...
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Summer BeachLife Volleyball
Every summer, the iconic beach of Scheveningen transforms for two weekends into the ultimate setting for sun, sand and sport during the Summer BeachLife Volleyball Tournament! What can you expect during Summer BeachLife in Scheveningen? - Beach Volleyball for Everyone: Join in recreational tournaments (2x2, 3x3 and 4x4, ...
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Nederlands Kampioenschap Beachvolleybal
At the end of August, The Hague Beach Stadium on Strandweg 4 in Scheveningen hosts the Dutch Beach Volleyball Championships. For three days you can enjoy spectacular matches, sun, sea and a summery festival atmosphere, all for free. What can you expect at the NK Beachvolleybal? - Top sport by the sea: The best Dutch beach ...
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Milan Summer Festival
The Milan Summer Festival is an annual multicultural highlight held in the Zuiderpark in The Hague. The festival brings cultures together and celebrates the colourful diversity of the Netherlands through music, dance, food, art, and wellness. What can you expect at the Milan Summer Festival? - Global Vibes: From ...
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Jalan Jalan Festival
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The Jalan Jalan Festival is The Hague's new Indo city festival and the successor to the well-known Tong Tong Fair. For a whole weekend the city celebrates Indo culture, with influences from Indonesia, the Moluccas and Papua. What can you expect at the Jalan Jalan Festival? - Jalan Pedis: The free heart of the festival on ...
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Jazz in de gracht
End August
Jazz in de Gracht is a recurring, free jazz festival that immerses the city centre of The Hague in musical vibes for three whole days. The charming canals, including the Bierkade, Dunne Bierkade, Groenewegje, Veenkade and Hooigracht, form the unique setting for this lively event. What can you expect at Jazz in de ...
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Food Truck Festival TREK
Every summer, the idyllic Westbroekpark transforms into a vibrant open-air restaurant during the Food Truck Festival TREK. For four days, you can enjoy great food, live music, and a lively atmosphere, the perfect outing for foodies, families, and music lovers. What can you expect at the Food Truck Festival TREK? - ...
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Haagsche Art and Antique Days
For two summery days in July, the stately Lange Voorhout in The Hague is transformed into a true paradise for lovers of art, antiques, and unique treasures. For over 30 years, the Haagsche Art and Antique Days have been a household name in the Netherlands! What can you expect during the Haagsche Art and Antique Days? - ...
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Live on the Beach
Live on the Beach is the major annual music event on the beach of the Hague's seaside resort, Scheveningen. The beach is a unique venue for both artists and the audience, contributing to a fantastic atmosphere. On a sunny day, enjoy your favourite artist, good food and drink, plus the beach. At Live on the Beach, there is ...
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Aftersea Scheveningen
September
With Aftersea, Scheveningen opens its cultural season. After the busy summer there are two days of music, film, art and evening programmes at special places in the seaside resort, from the Kurhaus to the beach. What can you expect at Aftersea? - Kurzaal: Music in the Kurzaal of the Kurhaus. - Museum Beelden aan Zee: A ...
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Open Monuments Day in Scheveningen
Second Saturday and / or second Sunday in September
Every year, on a weekend in September, many monuments in the Netherlands open their doors to the public. The participating monuments in Scheveningen can be recognised by the Open Monuments Day flag, with the logo as depicted here. It offers the rare opportunity to visit historical buildings, churches, windmills, residences, and ma ...
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Prinsjesdag
Every third Tuesday in September, The Hague is the stage for Prinsjesdag, the festive and official start of the parliamentary year. It's a day filled with royal splendour, tradition, and symbolism, during which King Willem-Alexander delivers the Speech from the Throne on behalf of the government. What can you expect on ...
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Choir Festival Singing by the Sea
Singing by the Sea (Zingen Aan Zee) is the annual choir festival in Scheveningen, where singing enthusiasts of all ages come together for an afternoon filled with music, atmosphere, and connection. The festival has grown into the largest free-to-attend choir event in the The Hague region, attracting thousands of visitors ...
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International Kite Festival Scheveningen
End September
Every year at the end of September, the beach of Scheveningen transforms into a colourful spectacle during the Kite Festival Scheveningen, the largest international kite event in the Netherlands. With kites in every imaginable shape, size, and colour, it’s a celebration for all ages! What can you expect during the Kite ...
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National Museum Week
The National Museum Week is an annual event where hundreds of museums throughout the Netherlands open their doors to celebrate the rich culture, art, and history of the country. This event offers a unique opportunity to discover the hidden treasures and famous collections of Dutch museums. From historical artefacts to ...
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Museum Night in The Hague
During the annual Museum Night in The Hague, the city transforms into a vibrant cultural paradise. As evening falls, dozens of museums and cultural institutions open their doors for a unique night filled with art, history and creativity. What can you expect during Museum Night in The Hague? - A Night of Discovery: Enjoy ...
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Halloween
Eind oktober
On Saturday 31 October 2026 the Belgisch Park district in Scheveningen celebrates Halloween. Children in costume visit the participating shops to collect sweets and join in spooky activities. A fun afternoon for families with young children, within walking distance of the beach and the boulevard. What can you expect at ...
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Crossing Border Festival
November
The Crossing Border Festival in The Hague is one of Europe’s most innovative literature and music festivals. Every year in November, the city centre of The Hague transforms for four days into a vibrant stage for the written, spoken and sung word. What can you expect at Crossing Border? - International Headliners: Big ...
Read more
Ice Rink
Late November to early January
Every winter, Scheveningen transforms into a magical winter paradise during the Cool Event. Right on the Kurhausplein, a covered ice rink of no less than 600 m² sparkles, with the iconic Kurhaus hotel in the background. What can you expect at the Ice Rink in Scheveningen? - Covered Ice Rink: Enjoy weeks of skating fun on ...
