LIBERATION FESTIVALS IN THE NETHERLANDS

Okay, there is heavy rain and thunderstorms on the menu, but anyone who can find a good poncho can today enjoy their heart out across the Netherlands with dozens of artists on the stages of the liberation festivals. I lived during my teenage years in Haarlem, near the Haarlemmerhout where the festival was. Actually, we lived almost in the Hout, because the music was easily heard in our garden and visitors parked their cars (and relief, seriously) in that same garden. Almost. But anyway, there is more than Haarlem and here’s what’s next.

Haarlem 

In Haarlem, you have the main stage in the Hout, but there are more stages around it, each with its own music genre. Admission is free, but beware; the area has been surrounded by barriers for several years now, so the time of bringing your own beers is a thing of the past.

On the menu are among others Jacqueline Govaert, Typhoon, Racoon, Jett Rebel, and Mr. Polska.

The Hague

Also in The Hague, you can raise your hands in the air. At the Malieveld, there are large stages featuring Kensington, Raymann & Brainpower, Jett Rebel (I think he flies around the country in a helicopter), Tourette on Tour, and of course much more.

Rotterdam

Take the train, tram, bus, car, bike, or legs (something) to Het Park, next to the Euromast. There are dozens of food markets, pop-up markets, and of course music: Tentempies, Caro Emerald, The Minor Details, and Victim Victim.

Den Bosch

At the Pettelaarse Schans, the Brabanders can celebrate. There are three stages: the Mainstage, the Sena Talent Stage, and the Noord-Zuid Stage. On the Mainstage, among others, is Dotan, who is the Ambassador of Freedom.

Utrecht

In Utrecht, you need to be in Park Transwijk. I would definitely have Trijntje Oosterhuis on my program (that voice), Di-Rect, Dotan (there he is again), and Nuno Dos Santos (very nice DJ).

Leeuwarden

Find Victorypark, order a beer, organize your poncho and go wild at Jett Rebel, Ali B, Katzenjammer, and The Silverfaces.

Groningen

According to our editor-in-chief, “the coolest line-up in the coziest park,” and she is right. That park is the Stadspark, and that line-up includes among others Jett Rebel (busy man, I said it), Intergalactic Lovers, Selah Sue (woman with the most beautiful voice), The Rising Sun, Puggy, and Chef’Special. Especially the latter is a big editorial favorite. So Jet, what are you doing tomorrow? Fancy a trip to Groningen?