Saturday, April 25, 2026

Voorschoten Horse Days

The Voorschoten Horse Days is an annual multi-day traditional event in the center of Voorschoten (South Holland), taking place every last weekend of July. 
It is an ode to the horse with a mix of trade, sport, culture, and conviviality. 

Origin: The core is the centuries-old horse market (a free market with official rights since 1282 granted by Count Floris V). 
It began as a medieval annual market for livestock and products. 
Program (usually Friday through Sunday): 
Friday: Horse Night / evening program with food and drinks and music. 
Saturday: Early horse market on the Voorstraat (trading horses and ponies, veterinary inspection), annual market/street fair, children's activities, demonstrations (including a farrier), and the short-track trotting race on the Van Beethovenlaan. 
Sunday: Hobby horsing, ring jousting, seniors' afternoon, and more festivities. 
It attracts tens of thousands of visitors and combines tradition with modern elements such as a fairground and music. 
Animal welfare is a top priority. 
It is recognized as intangible heritage.

In short: a lively, horse-filled village festival with historical roots!








No comments:

Post a Comment