This year, I once again had the opportunity to work as one of the official photographers at the Grolsch Dragon Boat Festival in Apeldoorn. The 20th edition kicked off on Friday evening with a performance by Zoë Livay, followed by artists including Anouk. With thousands of visitors, a fantastic atmosphere and a true festival vibe, it was another memorable edition that was a pleasure to photograph.
FRIDAY EVENING: MUSIC, SUNSHINE AND STORMS
As in previous years, the festival opened with an impressive line-up on both the Main Stage and in the festival tent. The programme featured performances by Zoë Livay, Bente, Ruben Hillen – winner of The Voice of Holland 2026, who replaced Jack and the Weatherman – Suzan & Freek, Lenny Monsou, Anouk and STUK. The weather could not have been better throughout the evening: dry, sunny and pleasantly warm.
Shortly after 11:00 p.m., however, the approaching severe weather brought the evening to an abrupt halt. Anouk had only just started her second song when the municipality ordered the festival to be suspended. The severe weather threat over Apeldoorn was considered serious enough that visitors were asked to leave the festival grounds as a precaution.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY: DRAGON BOAT RACES AND ENTERTAINMENT
Creativity was once again on full display during this year's Dragon Boat Races. The participating teams pulled out all the stops in their quest to win the coveted WaXX Award for the most eye-catching and original costumes. The result was a colourful parade of hilarious, creative and impressive outfits.
In addition to the exciting dragon boat races on the Apeldoorn Canal, there was plenty more to enjoy throughout Saturday and Sunday. Visitors to the Zwitsal site enjoyed live music, street theatre, food trucks, activities for all ages and, of course, the welcoming atmosphere that has made the Dragon Boat Festival such a popular event for many years. Between the races, the terraces filled up as people relaxed with music, good food and a refreshing drink.
HEAT
The sun was out in full force once again this year. On both Saturday and Sunday, temperatures climbed above 30°C, prompting the organisers to activate the festival's heat plan. A passing high-pressure water truck was therefore greeted with loud cheers, as every opportunity to cool down was more than welcome. Additional drinking water stations, shade canopies and parasols helped visitors cope with the heat. Everyone was also encouraged to apply sunscreen regularly. And of course, alongside a refreshing glass of water, an ice-cold beer proved to be just as popular.
WHAT A CELEBRATION!
Although Friday evening ended on a disappointing note, the 2026 Dragon Boat Festival was once again an event to remember. Over the course of three days, I spent no less than 27 hours on the festival grounds, walked more than 42,000 steps and captured hundreds of photographs. The Dragon Boat Festival remains one of the most enjoyable festivals in and around Apeldoorn, as reflected by its tremendous popularity. This year once again, the festival attracted more than 100,000 visitors.
If you would like to learn more about the festival, be sure to visit the official website.
Below is a selection of photographs from a fantastic festival weekend!
