5 Ways to Experience Illumination Week
For six evenings, all nineteen windmills are beautifully illuminated, offering a one of a kind experience only available during Illumination Week. Cruise past the glowing windmills, gather with friends during Borrel Night, take in the panoramic views from the terrace of the Kinderdijk Café, or capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening on the water or the perfect photo opportunity, these five experiences will help you make the most of your visit to Illumination Week.
1. Experience the Illuminated Windmills from the Water
Step aboard a tour boat and experience the illuminated windmills from a whole new perspective. Choose a 30 minute cruise or join the Borrel Boat, where you’ll enjoy drinks and light bites during a one hour cruise. Want to make even more of your evening? Sail from Rotterdam aboard a Spido cruise or depart from Schoonhoven on the stylish Thalassa. That way, the journey becomes just as memorable as the destination.
2. Raise a Glass at Borrel Night
Join us on Wednesday for Borrel Night and enjoy a relaxed evening overlooking the illuminated windmills. Sample craft beers from local brewery De Kinderdijkse Kater while live music sets the mood. Grab a drink, meet up with friends or family, and combine your evening with a stroll through the area or a scenic cruise.
3. Capture the Illuminated Windmills on Camera
When the lights come on, the canals come alive with stunning reflections, giving the landscape an entirely different atmosphere. Wander through the area and find your favorite viewpoint to capture the illuminated windmills. Please note that drones are not permitted during Illumination Week, helping preserve the experience for visitors, local residents, and the surrounding nature.
4. Explore the Water by Kayak or SUP
Paddle past the illuminated windmills by kayak and experience Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage from a truly unique perspective. Glide through the waterways at your own pace and get closer to the beautifully lit landscape than ever before. Prefer to explore on a stand up paddleboard? Join the special SUP Night on Thursday evening and paddle through the illuminated windmill landscape alongside more than 200 fellow participants.
5. Step Inside a Windmill!
From Wednesday through Saturday, Museum Mill Nederwaard is also open in the evening. Step inside and discover how millers and their families once lived and worked. While the illuminated windmills glow outside, you’ll get a glimpse into daily life inside an authentic working windmill. It’s the perfect addition for anyone looking to combine a magical evening with a journey through Dutch history.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Book your tickets in advance, as the most popular activities sell out quickly. Arriving by car? Free parking is available at the IHC parking lot after 5:30 PM, about a 10 minute walk from the entrance to Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage. You can also choose the paid parking lot located near the entrance for added convenience. Please note that drones are not permitted during Illumination Week, helping preserve the experience for visitors, local residents, and the surrounding nature.
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