What to do on Pentecost?

Last updated: April 22, 2026.

Pentecost falls on May 24 and 25. Another long weekend off for many of us. In Christianity, we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit (the spirit of Jesus) from heaven. But just like Ascension Day,this weekend is also a time for many to enjoy fun outings and spend time with the family. Looking for some great ideas? You might find them here!

Visit a Pentecost market

During the Pentecost weekend, there are several lively markets to visit, such as:

• Vlissingen Pentecost Market: On Pentecost Sunday (May 24), you can enjoy a market with a variety of stalls—from books to jewelry—on the Vlissingen boulevard, with a view of the sea.
• Leek Pentecost Market: This market has been held on Pentecost Monday for hundreds of years. With no fewer than 350 stalls, a carnival, and various festivals in the region, it’s a real day out.
• Panningen Pentecost Market: On Pentecost Monday (Monday, May 25), from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., a lively market in the center of Panningen.
• Swan Market Delft: On Pentecost Sunday (May 24) on the Markt in the historic center of Delft. A creative makers’ market featuring designers and illustrators.
• Elst op Stelten: On Whit Monday (Monday, May 25), the center of Elst will be transformed into a large market with more than 200 stalls, live music, and children’s attractions such as a carousel and bungee jumping.

Music Festivals

The Pentecost weekend is a popular festival weekend. Here are a few highlights:

• Raalte Blues Festival: The ultimate blues festival in the eastern and northern Netherlands, featuring street theater and live music by national and international artists.
• Jazz in Duketown – Three days (May 22–24) of free jazz, soul, and funk in the downtown area of Den Bosch at various stages and squares. The festival attracts between 130,000 and 150,000 visitors annually and takes place at 10 different venues throughout the city.
• Lentekabinet Festival – Dekmantel’s spring festival returns among the trees of Het Twiske in Oostzaan on May 23 & 24, 2026. An outdoor electronic music festival featuring a mix of house, techno, and disco, set in the heart of a beautiful nature reserve.
• Blues Festival Raalte – Raalte: The ultimate blues festival in the eastern and northern Netherlands, featuring street theater, live music by national and international artists, and a special treat: delicious spare ribs as the festival meal.
• Festival Achterland – For music and theater lovers who enjoy discovering something new: for no less than five days, you’ll be immersed in performances ranging from music to theater. Doetinchem (May 21–25).
• Oranjewoud Festival – Oranjewoud Park, Friesland (starting May 22). Classical music in a beautiful park setting in Friesland.

Castle Day

Throughout the Pentecost weekend, castles across the Netherlands open their doors to the public during Castle Day. The theme for 2026 is “Love,” featuring stories of secret encounters, fortunate marriages, and families that stayed together or fell apart. A unique opportunity to discover historic sites and learn more about the past. This year’s theme is “Outdoors!”, with a focus on all the outdoor spaces of Dutch castles, country estates, ruins, and manors. Visit dagvanhetkasteel.nl to find participating locations near you.

Visiting GeoFort

Looking for a weekend getaway during Pentecost where kids can discover, build, and explore through play? Then a visit to GeoFort is highly recommended. On this interactive fortress island, everything revolves around the future of the Earth. From exciting scavenger hunts and challenging mazes to Minecraft activities and experiments related to climate, energy, and technology. During the special Pentecost weekend, there are extra activities on the program for the whole family. Ideal for curious kids and parents who want to combine a day out with adventure and education. You can find more information about the program at GeoFort Pentecost Weekend

Pentecost Fair

In many towns across the Netherlands, you can visit a fair during the Pentecost weekend!! Fun attractions for young and old. In this overview, you’ll find exactly which towns are hosting a fair during Pentecost.

Visit an Open-Air Museum

Discover the past in the great outdoors by visiting one of the many open-air museums in the Netherlands, such as Archeon, PreHistorisch Dorp, and GeoFort. Learn more about history while enjoying the fresh air. Find a list of more great open-air museums in our blog post “9 of the Best Open-Air Museums in the Netherlands.”

Get out into nature

Staatsbosbeheer and Natuurmonumenten organize various nature excursions and activities throughout the year. Whether you want to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet, there’s something for everyone.

Visit a zoo

Zoos such as Artis, Burgers’ Zoo, Ouwehands Zoo, and Diergaarde Blijdorp are open during Pentecost. A fun outing for the whole family to admire animals up close.

Visit a recreation park

Or head to an amusement park, animal park, or other entertainment venues! So get active with the family and swing through the trees at aclimbing park, make your kids happy, and visitPlaswijckpark Family Parkin Rotterdam,Eftelingin Kaatsheuvel,Slagharen Amusement Park, orBeekse Bergen Safari Park. You’ll find anoverview of the best amusement parks in this blog.

Take a boat ride

As long as the weather’s nice, it’s fun to go out on the water. These days, at many harbors, you can rent a rowboat or electric boat without a boating license and head out for a nice trip. Bring a cooler and a picnic basket, and enjoy!

Whether you choose an active outing, a cultural visit, or simply want to enjoy nature, there’s plenty to do during Pentecost 2026.

Have fun and Happy Pentecost! 

Photo Credits: OpstapmetLisa and Canva.com