During Illumination Week, the windmills shine like beacons in the night. For more than 50 years, these iconic landmarks have been beautifully illuminated, creating a spectacular and atmospheric experience. It’s a completely different way to discover Kinderdijk, and one you won’t soon forget. You can found the program below.
A longstanding tradition: every first full week of September
The windmills are illuminated from 8.15 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 8.15 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
During Illumination Week, the Kinderdijk-cafe and Gift Shop are open every evening for drinks, snacks, and souvenirs. From Monday through Thursday they are open until 11 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday until 11.30 p.m.
You can buy tickets for the various Illumination Week activities online. During Illumination Week, tickets can also be purchased on-site, subject to availability. We recommend booking online in advance, as activities are popular and may sell out.
Just as during the day, flying a drone is not permitted over Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage during Illumination Week. The area is also designated as a Natura 2000 site, and drones may disturb wildlife, local residents, and other visitors. Flying a drone in violation of the regulations may result in a fine.
It is possible to visit by your own boat. Please be aware that the waterways can be busy during Illumination Week. Make sure your boat is properly lit and follow all navigation regulations. To help preserve the peace and quiet of the area, playing (loud) music is not permitted. Enforcement officers will be present on the water to ensure these regulations are followed.
If you are visiting Illumination Week by car, you can park free of charge at the IHC parking area from 5.30 p.m. onwards. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the entrance of Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage.
You can also park at the car park next to the entrance. Parking here costs €9.75 per car. Spaces cannot be reserved in advance and are subject to availability.
Please note: If you used our shuttle bus to and from the parking area in Alblasserdam during the day, please be aware that the last shuttle bus back to the parking area departs at 5.45 p.m. After that time, the shuttle service will no longer operate.
Yes, if you plan to walk through the area, we strongly recommend it. While the windmills are beautifully illuminated, the walking paths themselves remain dark. Bringing a flashlight or other light source will help you find your way safely and ensure that you are visible to others. Please also note that many of the paths are shared with cyclists.
If you are visiting Illumination Week by your own boat, make sure your vessel is properly lit and complies with all applicable navigation regulations.
If you are only planning to take one of our boat tours and not walk through the area, bringing your own light is not necessary.
