Pinksterzaan: celebrating freedom at the Zaanse Schans, where the Spanish Fort once stood
During Pinksterzaan, residents of the Zaan region celebrate freedom at the Zaanse Schans with music, culture, traditional crafts, children’s activities and regional products. Pinksterzaan is organised by the Pinksterzaan Foundation.
Whit Monday is the perfect opportunity to experience the historic culture of the Zaan region up close. Visitors can wander past market stands offering local delicacies, discover traditional Dutch crafts and enjoy live performances with a view of the Zaan heritage. Pinksterzaan brings young and old together.
Spanish Fortress: a symbol of resistance and liberation
Pinksterzaan is a recurring event at the Zaanse Schans, organised by the Pinksterzaan Foundation, and is a colourful celebration of freedom, encounter and solidarity. Its origins lie in a creative tribute to the historical nickname of the Zaanse Schans: the “Spaanse Schans” (Spanish Fortress).
This name refers to the military stronghold that was erected here around 1574 by the Spanish army during the Eighty Years’ War. Later, the site became a symbol of resistance and liberation.
Pinksterzaan: a unifying celebration of liberation
It was in this spirit that Pinksterzaan was created: an accessible, cheerful and unifying Whitsun festival for the people of Zaanstad. During the event, the Zaanse Schans is transformed into a lively meeting area with culture, music, children’s activities, street theatre, crafts and workshops.
The atmosphere is inviting and reflects the desire to build bridges between people, cultures and generations. Pinksterzaan is an event with a contemporary story about togetherness on historic ground.
An event where people meet, share and celebrate. Pinksterzaan was created in response to the transformation: from siege to liberation, from border to bridge.
A festive Whit Monday full of connection and creativity
Pinksterzaan at the Zaanse Schans takes place on Whit Monday and is all about meeting people, creativity and freedom. This accessible and festive event, organised by the Pinksterzaan Foundation, brings people together in an open atmosphere, with a diverse programme for young and old.
The heritage landscape of the Zaanse Schans provides the décor for live music, art, old crafts, children’s activities, theatre and local delicacies.
During the event, you can walk around the heritage village past the tents where regional products are sold. Children can participate in workshops such as making a spinning top or be entertained by street theatre.
Pinksterzaan Zaanse Schans Experience it for yourself
Regardless of whether you are visiting for the music, the street theatre, for your children, or simply to explore the heritage of the Zaan region, Pinksterzaan invites you to reflect on what connects us.
Freedom, culture, history, and creativity converge here in a relaxed and open atmosphere.
Pinksterzaan Zaanse Schans
Pinksterzaan is an annual cultural event that takes place on Whit Monday at the Zaanse Schans. It is organised by the Pinksterzaan Foundation and focuses on socialising, cultural experiences and showcasing local creativity. With a varied programme for all ages, the event offers a contemporary interpretation of this holiday in a place of historical significance.
During Pinksterzaan, regional visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities: live music, street theatre, workshops, children’s activities and a small market with local products and crafts. The Zaanse Schans provides a unique décor where heritage and culture come together. Art, crafts and social themes are given a platform in an environment that invites discovery.
From the historical context of the Zaanse Schans, once known as the “Spaanse Schans”, Pinksterzaan has grown into a day where past and present meet. The event shows how tradition provides space for new stories, initiatives and encounters between the public, creators and entrepreneurs.