Sometimes you come to places where time seems to stand still. Where you can still see people smiling at each other. Where stories come to life on the quayside and children sit in the grass with bright red cheeks and watch. Koedijk is such a place – and during the gondola parade in August, the village seems even more magical.
From August 14 to 17, the village will be aglow with lights, music, and community. A village festival that will touch you – in all its simplicity.
Thursday, August 14
It starts off quietly. The party tent opens its doors with a cozy senior afternoon and bingo. Afterwards, everyone sits down for a pub quiz as the sun slowly sinks behind the rooftops. You can sense that this is the beginning of something wonderful.
Friday, August 15
In the morning, you can hear children's laughter in the square. There are games, an obstacle course, bouncy castles—everything to burn off some energy. In the evening, the tent swings to the live music of the band Trots. Everyone knows everyone here. And if you don't know anyone, it usually only takes five minutes to get used to it.
Saturday, August 16
The day when everything comes together. Starting at 3 p.m., there's a street market, a funfair, and a lively village atmosphere. But the highlight comes in the evening. Then people gather by the canal, on folding chairs and blankets. And around 9 p.m.... it all begins. Illuminated gondolas glide slowly across the water, each boat built with care and love. You see flowers, lights, music—and amazed glances everywhere. Young and old, silent at the same moment.
Sunday, August 17
Just when you think things couldn't get any better, you wake up to the gentle sounds of the festival tent. There's the traditional Boatbuilders' Ball, the awards ceremony, and the band Infrared, who rounds out the weekend with music that will linger long afterward. No rush, no pressure. Just relax to the rhythm of the village.
My tip:
Abandon your plans. Walk, listen, taste, look. Buy something you don't need at the flea market. Share fries against a wall. And bring a warm sweater for the evening—not just to keep you warm from the cold, but for that ultimate summer feeling when the lights come on and you think: This is so beautiful.
Want to experience it for yourself? Mark August 14-17 in your calendar and come to Koedijk. You'll feel welcome from the very first moment.
