Noorderzon

Something new behind every tree

For eleven days, the Noorderzon festival is the highlight of the cultural summer in Groningen. From 20 to 30 August 2026, a colourful array of performing artists and creatives will descend on the atmospheric Noorderplantsoen. Noorderzon marks a festive start to the cultural season and a spectacular end to the summer holidays.

Performances and food trucks

Almost everyone talks about Noorderzon, but the full name of this festival is actually the Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts & Society. Every year, the festival attracts over 135,000 visitors to the Noorderplantsoen, which is free to enter. People come not only for the performances, but also (and sometimes solely) for the unique, relaxed atmosphere. The park, normally so peaceful, is now brimming with outdoor cafés, food stalls, hundreds of lights and artistic installations. In this exciting place, you’ll discover something new behind every tree.

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