Jan 14 – 17
ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag)
Europe's main showcase festival for new music. The city turns into one big concert venue.
City Center
Events Calendar 2026
What's happening in Groningen
The Grote Markt — heart of the city's events
Welcome to Groningen! This calendar highlights the most iconic events in the city. Whether you like music, culture or sports, there's always something happening in the North.
Official source
All events in Groningen
Gemeente Groningen — full evenementenkalender
January
February
Feb 7
Nacht van Groningen
A unique "Night of Groningen" running event through the illuminated streets of the centre.
Grote Markt
April
Apr 3
Bloemenjaarmarkt
The "Flower Market" — the largest in the North, with 100+ stalls selling flowers and plants on Good Friday.
City Center
Apr 26 – 27
King's Night & Day
Celebration of the King's birthday. Expect orange outfits, flea markets and massive outdoor parties.
City Center & Stadspark
May
May 5
Liberation Festival
Celebrating freedom with live music and performances. One of the biggest free festivals in the Netherlands.
Stadspark
May 7 – 17
Meikermis
The traditional May Funfair — rides and attractions spread across the main squares.
Vismarkt / Grote Markt
August
Aug 10 – 14Must-do
KEI-week
The general introduction week for all new students. Essential for meeting people and seeing the city.
City-wide
Aug 20 – 30
Noorderzon Festival
An international performing-arts festival in a beautiful park setting — food, drinks and theatre.
Noorderplantsoen
Aug 28
Gronings Ontzet (Bommen Berend)
Local holiday celebrating the relief of the city in 1672 — features horse races and fireworks.
City Center
October
Oct 11
4 Mijl van Groningen
The most popular running event in the North (6.4 km) — legendary for its atmosphere.
Haren → Groningen
December
Dec 18 – 20
WinterWelVaart
Historic ships line the canals with Christmas markets, music and art on board.
Hoge / Lage der A
Source: Gemeente Groningen. Events and dates are subject to change — always double-check the official calendar before planning.