FLAG DAY SATURDAY 20 JUNE SCHEVENINGEN

Vlaggetjesdag is an annual large-scale folk festival in Scheveningen that celebrates the arrival of the Hollandse Nieuwe herring. It is a combination of culture, history and fish promotion, where the harbor is full of decorated fishing boats and thousands of people enjoy music, markets and fresh herring. For Dutch and foreigners, it is always fascinating to attend this typical Dutch tradition. Unlike in previous decades, in 2026 the processing of herring will take place with stern trawlers and cold stores. The traditional auction of the First Barrel of Herring still takes place in Scheveningen.

The official opening of the flag day event will take place on Saturday, June 20 in 2026 in the harbor of Scheveningen. On the night before, the largest Herring Party in the Netherlands was held for the business community. Both events offer a great opportunity to build and maintain relationships and to familiarize foreigners in particular with Dutch culture. The VNC places this event on its cultural activity program.

Visitors are given the unique opportunity to take a look behind the scenes. For example, the cold stores open their doors to the public and an impressive stern trawler can be visited. This offers an insight into contemporary fishing and shows how the sector has evolved over the years. There is also a lot of focus on experience on the water. The Flag Day organization is doing everything it can to bring as many fishing boats as possible to Scheveningen, so that visitors can once again enjoy a beautiful fleet review.

Program Saturday 20 June 2026 Flag Day

In collaboration with the Vlaggetjesdag Foundation, the VNC has made a special arrangement for members and guests and sponsors on Vlaggetjesdag in the Scheveningen harbor on Saturday Friday 20 June:

Guests can enjoy the Hollandse Nieuwe and the non-fishing enthusiast is also thought of!

Time: 10:00 – 14:00, Location: Scheveningen harbor

• 10:00 am Welcome, reception Flag Day board with coffee tea.

• 12:00 Guided tour Scheveningen harbor, fish auction/cold stores and lunch (with herring or alternative for the non-fish lover.

• 14:00 Activities: The celebration traditionally includes the arrival of the first herring, fleet review, fishing crafts, music performances and various children’s activities.

If you would like to participate in the program on June 20, please register quickly:

The costs for participation in this program on Saturday 20 June are €36.50 (incl. VAT) per person, Be quick! The number of places is limited. After registration you will receive a confirmation. The event takes place with a minimum of 30 people.