Night of the Night

On Saturday 25 October, it is once again time for the 'Night of the Night'. Explore the beauty of darkness, understand the importance of light in our ecosystem and reflect on the mystery and magic of the night. Let the dark be dark.

The Night of the Night is an annual event, taking place for the twenty-first time this year. In an increasingly illuminated world, this night offers the magnificent starry sky the chance to shine as intended - without the disturbing glow of artificial light. "In Western Europe and certainly in the Netherlands, the use of artificial light at night is steadily increasing, which is unhealthy for both humans and animals. Both have a biological clock and it is disturbed in this way. The beauty of the starry sky is a heritage that should be cherished worldwide, and the Night of the Night contributes to this," says astronomer Theo Jurriens.

During the Night of the Night, numerous activities are planned in Town and Countryside to show us that night is not scary, but rather a calm blanket that wraps around us. A time when nocturnal animals awaken and sharpen our senses. Check out some of the activities below.

Walk on the Ennemaborg estate

During the national Night of the Night, a group of guides will lead a walk in the dark across Ennemaborg Estate. How dark is it really in the forest? How do you find your way without light? And how do the animals do it? Which species, in particular, become active at night? Come and find out on the estate.

Stargazing with a telescope

Mr van Calcar's garden in Ulrum is a great place for stargazing. He provides two telescopes, you can admire our galaxy - do you know how to recognise all the various objects in the sky? All your questions about the universe will also be answered.

Experience the night at the RUG

During the Night of the Night, the University of Groningen opens its doors. Visit the mobile planetarium, take a guided tour of the Blaauw Observatory, listen to inspiring lectures and explore the space with creative craft activities.

Night cruise with the ZK9

Sail from the port of Lauwersoog into the darkness on the Wadden Sea. With the ZK9, moor at the Engelsmanplaat and raise a toast to the ultimate darkness.

" "Let the dark be dark and discover how beautiful the night is" "

Already have other plans during the Night of the Night? No problem! Because in Groningen, you can always enjoy true darkness. The National Park Lauwersmeer has officially been allowed to bear the title of Dark Sky Park since 2016. Worldwide, there are just over forty of these Dark Sky Parks. Quite special, then - far away from artificial light sources, it is so dark here at night that you can actually see everything. Not just the bright stars, but also the stars a hundred light years away. Sometimes you can even spot the northern lights here.

Dark Sky Park
Dark Sky Park
Walking under the stars
Walking under the stars
National Park Lauwersmeer
National Park Lauwersmeer
Going into the dark
Going into the dark

Night of the Night

Let the dark be dark