It is an annual farmers' festival in villages such as Burgh-Haamstede, Renesse, Ellemeet, Noordwelle, Scharendijke, and Serooskerke.
Decorated horses (often Zeeland draft horses) ride in a procession to the beach, where they enter the sea for the first time that year to "wash" their legs and hooves in the salt water.
This was originally to prevent stiffness, mud fever, and inflammation after a winter in the stables.
After the ride, there is a celebration in the village, including ring-riding and a festive evening.
The tradition dates back to at least 1643 and takes place in February/March.
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