Events and culture
There is always something happening in Venlo. Throughout the year, there are events, markets, festivals and cultural activities. These are good places to meet new people and learn more about the city. You can find the latest events on the InVenlo website.
Sport and exercise
If you would like to play sport or be more active, Venlo has many sports clubs, sports activities and places where you can exercise. You can find all the sports activities near you on Actief in Venlo.
Help and support
If you need help with money, health, housing, work or family matters, visit Wegwijs in Venlo. Here you will find information, advice and support that matches your situation.
Tourist Information Point
If you would like to find out more about Venlo and the surrounding area, the Tourist Information Point tells you about places worth seeing, walking and cycling routes, and fun activities in North Limburg. You can also get leaflets and ideas for a day out.
Frequently asked questions
What public holidays are there?
Holidays held on the same date every year:
- New Year’s Day – 1 January
- King's Day – 27 April
- Liberation Day – 5 May
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day – 25 and 26 December
Holidays whose date changes every year:
- Good Friday
- Easter Sunday and Easter Monday
- Ascension Day
- Whit Sunday and Whit Monday
Important
- You are not always off work on these days.
- It depends on your job or your collective labour agreement.
- On Liberation Day (5 May), many people only get the day off once every five years.
- Supermarkets may have different opening hours or may be closed.
If you want to know whether you have the day off, check your employment contract or your collective labour agreement.
What is Carnaval?
Carnaval is a big celebration, especially in Limburg. People wear costumes, listen to music and celebrate together. Carnaval usually lasts for several days. Many people go to parades, cafés and party tents. Carnaval is not an official public holiday, but some people take time off work to celebrate.
What is Sinterklaas?
Sinterklaas is a Dutch festival for children. Sinterklaas is an imaginary character, just like Father Christmas. Many young children believe that he is real. The Sinterklaas season starts in November. The main celebration is on 5 December. Children put out a shoe and receive presents. People also sing songs, and many children watch the Sinterklaas News programme. Sinterklaas is a happy celebration mainly for children and families.
What is King's Day?
King's Day is the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. It is celebrated every year on 27 April. Many people wear orange clothes and visit markets, festivals or other events. There are parties and music in many places. King's Day is an official public holiday. Many people have the day off work.
What are the biggest events in Venlo?
Venlo has many popular events every year. During Carnival, people wear costumes and enjoy parades and parties. The Zomerparkfeest is a free festival with music, theatre and good food.
Sport enthusiasts can take part in the Venloop, a large running event for all ages. Every year there is also a Funfair with rides, games and stalls.
The Sint Maartenoptocht is held in November. During this parade, children walk through the city with lanterns and sing songs.
Practical tips
Some tips to help you feel at home more quickly in the Netherlands and in Venlo:
- Try to speak a little Dutch every day
- Join activities in your neighbourhood
- Learn how things work in the Netherlands
- Go to public holiday celebrations or local events
- Ask for help if you do not understand something