This autumn, we’ll take you on a tour of Groningen’s creative and artistic hotspots. The creative minds behind these places will be delighted to tell you all about them. Feel free to draw inspiration from them. Groningen is brimming with charming, cosy and authentic little streets. But for some, you just need to pop around the corner. Steentilstraat is a good example of this. Once a backstreet, it’s now a vibrant spot full of energy. Creative talent Emil Srush is a familiar face in the cultural sector. He’ll be happy to tell you a bit about Steentilstraat and where best to go for a concert.
Just round the corner
Emil: ''The Steentilstraat is a hidden gem in the city centre. It used to be a backstreet, but now it's a place where it's good to hang out. Where you score the best records at the Boys of Hemmes, find unique vintage clothes at Onder de Linde and then grab a terrace at café-bistro Kult. I spent four years behind the bar here and I keep coming back. A place where you can have a nice meal with your mother and then finish the evening with your friends at the bar. An open atmosphere where everyone is welcome. That characterises Groningen: both young and old easily find their place here. At all times of the day. Wherever you come from. Everyone is a Groninger.''
Groningen: City of Music
“Groningen is unique. A great city that’s at the same time small enough to let you be yourself,” says Emil. “The locals are headstrong and have a strong mindset. We do things here just a little differently from the way they’re done in the Randstad. What’s more, our city has an international character. Despite the mix of people and cultures, it feels like one cohesive whole. Whether you’re an international or from another province: there’s a place for everyone. You’ll be welcomed with open arms.”
“ ‘Wherever you’re from: everyone is a Groninger’ ”
A place to flourish
“A breeding ground for creativity. A city with ‘easy access to culture’. That’s how I’d describe Groningen when I talk about it with friends. There’s plenty of scope for culture and for personal development. Both personally and creatively. Groningen has the right atmosphere; it’s up to you to take the first stap . That’s how I got the chance to organise a club night (LOFT) twice a month at the VERA music venue. What started as an idea of mine and a friend’s has grown into a household name in Groningen and far beyond. This city gives you the opportunities.”
“ “A great city that is, at the same time, small enough to let you be yourself” ”
Tips from Emil
''Groningen is the music city par excellence. So SPOT attracts big names more than once. But at the same time, you can also discover new artists in the city - there is so much to see. My favourite place is the famous music venue VERA, where several artists play every week. Sometimes big, sometimes small, but always equally different. For the rock fan, it's a must, and whether you're with 500 or 50 people: a visit to VERA is an experience in itself. If you are a hip-hop fan, you should definitely go to Simplon. They regularly book artists who are so well-known in their music scene that I'm surprised they come to Groningen. But at the same time, it doesn't come as a surprise. Groningen is the city where both the biggest and the smaller artists feel at home. The cosy cafés the city has to offer are also worth a visit. Pay a visit to De Minnaar or Literair café De Graanrepubliek. The homely and convivial atmosphere of both places will make you feel right at home. But that's fine in Groningen anyway.''
“ “Groningen offers you opportunities” ”
