What is Illumination Week at Kinderdijk?
For more than fifty years, this annual tradition has attracted visitors from around the world. As the sun sets, Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage comes to life in a completely different way. Stroll past the illuminated windmills, enjoy an evening boat tour, or relax on a terrace overlooking the glowing landscape. Illumination Week lets you experience Kinderdijk in a way you won’t find anywhere else.
Why are the windmills illuminated?
Illumination Week began in the early 1970s as a small scale initiative, with just a few windmills lit up after dark. What started as a unique experiment has grown into a beloved annual tradition. Today, Illumination Week is a recurring event at Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage, held every year during the first full week of September.
This year, Illumination Week takes place from September 7 through 12
What can you do during Illumination Week?
Of course, the illuminated windmills are the main attraction, but there’s much more to experience. Enjoy a variety of boat tours and (guided) kayak trips. New this year is a beer tasting paired with an evening boat tour. The tasting is hosted by local craft brewery De Kinderdijkse Kater.
A Paradise for Photographers
For photographers, Illumination Week is arguably the most beautiful time of the year. The beautifully illuminated windmills, their reflections on the water, and the historic landscape create stunning photo opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.
We kindly ask visitors not to use drones during the event. Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage is a protected Natura 2000 site, and the windmills are private homes. By leaving your drone at home, you help protect the local wildlife and respect the privacy of the people who live here.
Is Illumination Week free to visit?
The windmill area remains free to explore on foot during Illumination Week. However, tickets are required for certain activities, including boat tours, workshops, and visits to the museum mill Nederwaard.
Revenue from these tickets directly supports the preservation and maintenance of Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage. By purchasing a ticket, you’re helping preserve this unique piece of Dutch heritage for future generations.
When is Illumination Week?
This year, Illumination Week at Kinderdijk takes place from Monday, September 7 through Saturday, September 12.
When do the windmills light up?
The windmills are illuminated at approximately 8:15 PM. From Monday through Thursday, the lights remain on until 10:30 PM. On Friday and Saturday, they stay illuminated until 11:00 PM.
Do I need a ticket for Illumination Week?
Tickets are required for selected activities. Because these experiences are popular and capacity is limited, we recommend booking your tickets in advance.
Is Illumination Week suitable for children?
Absolutely! The illuminated windmills are a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Evening boat tours are especially popular with families.
Where can I park during Illumination Week?
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.
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