The Most Popular Events and Festivals, Annual Highlights
The Most Popular Events and Festivals, the Annual Highlights
Texel buzzes with activity throughout the year thanks to its many recurring events and festivals. These events offer a wide range of experiences, from culinary delights to sporting challenges and cultural festivities. Here is an overview of the highlights you definitely don’t want to miss.
New Year’s Dive
The New Year on Texel starts with the New Year’s Dive. On January 1st, brave swimmers gather at Paal 9 to plunge into the cold water. This refreshing event is a popular way to ring in the new year, followed by warm drinks and fun on the beach.
Lamb Day
In the spring, you can enjoy Lamb Day, where you get the chance to see and cuddle newborn lambs up close. This event takes place at various farms on the island.
Texel Marathon
The Texel Marathon, held every two years in April, is a unique marathon that runs both on the road and over the beach and dunes, with distances ranging from 60 km to a half marathon.
Meierblis
On April 30th, Texel celebrates the ancient custom of Meierblis. This traditional bonfire marks the start of summer and is lit at various locations on the island. It’s a cozy event where the local community and visitors gather around the fire to enjoy music, food, and drinks.
Texel Brewery Open Day
Beer lovers should not miss the Texel Brewery Open Day in May. On this day, the Texel Brewery opens its doors to the public with tours, tastings, and live music.
Wadden Bird Festival
For bird enthusiasts, the Wadden Bird Festival in May is a must. This festival offers excursions, lectures, and workshops focused on Texel’s rich birdlife. Visitors can spot rare species and learn more about the conservation of these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.
Round Texel
In June, the Round Texel, the world’s largest catamaran race, attracts sailors from all over the world. The race starts and finishes at Paal 17, offering a spectacular display of sailing skills around the island of Texel.
Sea & Street Festival
In June, the Sea & Street Festival takes place in Oudeschild. This vibrant event combines maritime culture with street entertainment. Visitors can enjoy street performers, musical performances, and various stalls with local products and dishes while experiencing the unique harbor atmosphere.
Jazz on the Waves
Jazz on the Waves is an annual jazz festival held in June at various locations on Texel. This event attracts jazz lovers from near and far with a varied program of performances by top artists from home and abroad. The combination of swinging jazz music and the beautiful island setting ensures an unforgettable experience.
Sommeltjespop
Sommeltjespop is a popular music festival held in July in De Waal. This festival offers a varied lineup of artists and bands, guaranteeing a great day full of music and fun.
Day of the Sheep
Every five years in July, the Day of the Sheep is organized on the Hoge Berg. This event is all about sheep and sheep farming. Visitors can enjoy demonstrations, competitions, and markets with sheep products. It is an educational and fun day for the whole family.
Beach Food Festival
The Beach Food Festival in July at Paal 17 is a culinary feast on the beach. Local chefs and food trucks offer a wide range of delicious dishes, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. With live music and a relaxed atmosphere, this festival is a highlight for food lovers.
Strenderpop
Strenderpop is a music festival held in July in Oosterend. With a lineup of local and national bands, this festival offers a great mix of music genres. The intimate village square of Oosterend creates a unique and cozy atmosphere.
Sheep Breeding Day
At the Sheep Breeding Day in Den Hoorn, held annually in July, sheep breeders gather to showcase their best animals. Visitors can learn more about sheep farming and enjoy a market with local sheep products. It is an important event for the local community and visitors.
Autocross
In August, the excitement peaks during the Autocross in Eierland. This motorsport event attracts participants and spectators from far and wide, with spectacular races on a challenging course. It is a day full of speed and thrills for motorsport enthusiasts.
Harbor Fest
The Harbor Fest in August in Oudeschild is a treat for lovers of fish and maritime culture. This event offers fish tastings, demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques, and stalls with fresh fish and other local products. It is a great opportunity to discover Texel’s maritime traditions.
Texel Culinair
Texel Culinair takes place every year on the second weekend of September in De Koog. This culinary festival is a paradise for gourmets, where local restaurants present their best dishes. You can enjoy a wide range of delicious snacks and drinks here, perfect for pampering your taste buds.
Open Monument Day
During the Open Monument Day in September, many historic buildings and sites on Texel open their doors to the public. This event offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the island’s rich history and cultural heritage, with guided tours and special activities.
Texel Half Marathon
For athletes, there is the Texel Half Marathon at the end of September. This challenging half marathon takes you from the ferry port to the lighthouse, along beautiful views and a varied course.
Texel Blues Festival
The Texel Blues Festival, held on the second weekend of October in Den Burg, is a must for music lovers. This festival transforms various cafes and venues in Den Burg into blues stages, with performances by top artists from home and abroad.
Sinterklaas Arrival
The Arrival of Sinterklaas is a beloved event on Texel that takes place annually in November. Sinterklaas and his Pieten arrive by boat at the harbor of Oudeschild and are welcomed by enthusiastic children and parents. The festive program includes a parade through the village streets, followed by games, music, and treats for the children.
Christmas Market Oosterend
The Christmas Market Oosterend brings a warm and festive atmosphere to this picturesque village every December. The village square is transformed into a Christmas market with stalls full of handcrafted products, festive decorations, and local delicacies. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, hot chocolate, and live music while soaking up the Christmas spirit.
Experience Texel at its best by participating in one of the many annual events and festivals on the island. From adrenaline-pumping activities like our speedboat seal tour to culinary discoveries and cultural festivities, Texel offers something for everyone. Discover the unique atmosphere and hospitality of this Wadden Island during one of these special occasions and make your stay unforgettable.
Also, check out our overview of things to do on Texel, the best outings on Texel listed.
