haarlemsdagbladMar 28, 2026, 05:30

Is the end near for Heemskerk Festival? Funding shortage threatens to ruin plans. 'A crying shame', but organizers refuse to charge admission

The future of the free Heemskerk Festival is uncertain due to significant budget deficits resulting from the loss of major sponsors and funds. Organizer Peter Zonneveld stated that despite the financial challenges, charging for admission is not an option for the event.

Economy Culture Lifestyle Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

The 100-year history of Hema is quintessentially Amsterdam

The Dutch retail chain HEMA is celebrating its 100th anniversary since opening its first store in Amsterdam in 1926. The company, known for its household goods and the popular rookworst sandwich, has evolved over the century to serve a diverse range of customers.

Sky-high hotel prices, GVB working overtime and over 650,000 visitors: Amsterdam turned upside down for 30th edition of ADE

Amsterdam is currently hosting the 30th edition of the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), which is expected to draw over 650,000 visitors to more than 1,300 performances throughout the city. The influx of international guests has led to a sharp increase in local hotel prices, prompting many attendees to seek accommodation in nearby cities like Haarlem.

Growing reliance on a small group of volunteers makes amateur football clubs increasingly vulnerable

Amateur football clubs in Amsterdam are facing operational difficulties due to an acute shortage of volunteers for administrative positions. This heavy reliance on a small group of people creates instability, as membership fees are almost entirely consumed by fixed costs like rent and utilities rather than administrative compensation.

Ajax visits Sparta • AZ hosts FC Twente in crunch match

This Sunday, Ajax faces Sparta Rotterdam at Het Kasteel in an Eredivisie match starting at 16:45. The day of football concludes with AZ taking on FC Twente at 20:00, with both games available to listen to on NH Radio.

Mamdani hype also catching on among Amsterdam youth: "He is my mayor"

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has become an unlikely social media icon among young people in Amsterdam, who admire his authentic online presence. Local experts suggest that Amsterdam politicians could learn from his ability to engage youth, as many young residents currently feel disconnected from the city's own leadership.