Kerstival in Hoorn, how best to describe this atmospheric day? For me it is like the smell of freshly baked poffertjes, the singing of street musicians playing Christmas classics, and the historical charm of Hoorn that completely embraces you as you walk through the city. Kerstival is a fine December day when the Christmas atmosphere can be tasted everywhere in Hoorn. Tastes, lights and coziness come together. It is the perfect setting to get in the Christmas mood, score original Christmas gifts and moreover a nice day out. Curious about what you can experience during Kerstival? In this article I share my personal experience and fun tips!
Christmas festival in Hoorn
There is no other city in The Netherlands Where a Christmas event is kicked off with a Santa Run. Just imagine, in the morning at 11:00 a.m. all fanatical Hoorn people gather in the Noorderkerk to run together - in Christmas suits - a lap through Hoorn. It is not only incredibly sporty, but also heartbreakingly funny to see the Santa Clauses and women running through the historic streets of the city. It sets the tone for a festive and atmospheric Christmas day in Horn!
Winter markets in Hoorn
In the historic center of Hoorn you will find several fun Christmas markets during the Christmas Festival. There are more than 200 (!) stalls where you can find all kinds of fun, creative and original Christmas gifts. But food and drink also play a leading role during the Kerstival in Hoorn, and the winter markets are the beating heart of all those goodies. Because as you stroll through the atmospheric streets, you will be surrounded by the smell of freshly baked oliebollen and hot chocolate. There are various food trucks and stalls to discover local specialties, from artisanal cheeses to specially brewed beers.
Our favorite Christmas market in Hoorn? That's the market in the Noorderkerk. An atmospheric place that only gets busier as the day progresses. You can stroll along nice stalls, take pictures at a Photo Booth, listen to the Christmas Carol and drink mulled wine at the bar. Sounds good, right?
Tip: Want to warm up somewhere inside while wandering around the city? Then Braute Cuisine highly recommended. This hot spot is known for its richly filled artisan sandwiches and they certainly do not disappoint!
Performances and entertainment
Besides the playful Santa Run there is more to experience during the Christmas Festival in Hoorn. For there is something to experience on almost every street corner and in many stores. From talented street musicians to young bands playing classic Christmas carols. You will spontaneously sing along. Although the Christmas karaoke was a little too high for us to participate ourselves, the enthusiasm of others was great fun to watch. The sound of live performances literally brings young and old together in a festive atmosphere.
There is a schedule of performances each year during the Christmas Festival in Hoorn. Check it out in advance so you don't miss any of the must-see acts.
The historic charm of Hoorn
The historic city center of Hoorn is not just the place for a winter festival, it is a city that is atmospheric in its own right. During the Christmas Festival in Hoorn, the historic port city comes fully alive in winter atmospheres. The centuries-old facades, narrow streets and atmospheric squares are all gracefully decorated, all while the smell of freshly baked poffertjes and glühwein accompanies you along the canals and through the town center.
A walk through the center of Hoorn is like a trip back in time. The Hoofdtoren and the Westfries are beautifully lit. You can perfectly combine a visit to these sights in Hoorn with the cozy markets and performances. In the end you will understand, as I do now, why Hoorn is an atmospheric location for a winter festival.
Extra fun to visit is the harbor with its bobbing ships and festive lights. Here you really experience the ultimate winter atmosphere when evening falls. A reason for us to return every year in Horn.
