5 unusual festivals you can only experience in the Netherlands
What's the story
The Netherlands, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage, is home to some of the world's most unique festivals.
These celebrations, ranging from flower appreciation to downright strange historical traditions, provide a peek into the Dutch sense of fun and eccentricity.
Here are five of the most unusual festivals that put the Netherlands on the world map for cultural quirkiness.
Flower power
Blooming brilliance at the Flower Parade
Every spring, the town of Zundert blooms into a riot of color and creativity for the Bloemencorso, or Flower Parade.
This isn't your average garden show - think gigantic floats covered in thousands of flowers, each one a work of art with mind-blowing detail and imagination.
It's a tribute to the region's rich horticultural history and a must-see for flower lovers worldwide.
Orange alert
Battling oranges in Ivrea
Although technically not in the Netherlands, the Orange-throwing tradition has sparked similar events within Dutch communities.
The historic Battle of Oranges occurs in Ivrea, Italy, however, its essence is captured in several Dutch towns through their own renditions, featuring lighthearted fruit-throwing battles.
These events represent resistance to oppression, a celebration of the human spirit, and the strength of community unity.
Cheesy traditions
The enigmatic cheese weighing festival
In Gouda, you can step back in time and experience a centuries-old tradition honoring one of the nation's most iconic exports: cheese.
The Cheese Weighing Festival is a unique annual event where farmers convene to weigh their cheeses in a ritual dating back hundreds of years.
Onlookers can delight in witnessing cheese traded in authentic, old-world style while sampling a variety of dairy delicacies.
Mud fun
Mudflat hiking adventures
The Wadden Sea is home to a unique and increasingly popular pastime for both locals and tourists: mudflat hiking.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a rare opportunity for adventurers to walk across the seabed at low tide, discover marine life, and take in the stunning views.
It's a truly special way to immerse yourself in nature while experiencing one of the Netherlands' most iconic ecosystems.
Dragon boats
Fire breathing Dragon Boat Festival
In the Dutch city of Utrecht, a unique festival sets the night ablaze as fire-breathing dragon boats dance through its canals.
This spectacle blends Chinese folklore and traditions with Dutch culture, creating a magical display of artistry and community spirit.
Competing teams bring the dragons to life on intricately decorated boats, captivating thousands of spectators who gather along the banks to witness the fiery ballet.