Every year, thousands of people travel to Heeze to witness one of the Netherlands' most spectacular cultural events. Gigantic moving theatre floats, more than 2,000 performers, centuries-old stories and an entire village working together towards one unforgettable day.
Yet for many internationals living in the Brainport region, much of the magic remains hidden.
The stories are told in Dutch. The history is deeply rooted in Brabant's past. Without knowing the traditions behind the parade, it's easy to admire the impressive floats without fully understanding what makes Brabantsedag so special.
That's exactly why Brabantsedag is launching the Brabantsedag Experience.
Designed especially for internationals, this unique English-language programme takes you beyond the parade itself. Before taking your reserved seat along the route, you'll discover the history behind Brabantsedag, enjoy a traditional Brabant lunch and meet fellow internationals and local participants. During the parade, an English information sheet will help you understand this year's theme and the remarkable stories behind each of the sixteen theatre floats.
Whether you've recently moved to the Netherlands or have been living here for years, the Brabantsedag Experience offers a unique opportunity to experience Brabant through the eyes of the people who have kept this tradition alive for generations.
Your day begins at 11:00 with a warm welcome over coffee or tea and an English introduction to the history of the Brabantsedag. At 12:00, you sit down to a traditional Brabant lunch — a relaxed, convivial moment to meet fellow internationals and, where possible, local participants, and to experience genuine Brabant hospitality first-hand.
At 13:00, you take your reserved seat in the grandstand at the Ginderover, at the beginning of the parade route. As the towering floats pass by one by one, an English information guide explains this year's theme and the remarkable stories and craftsmanship behind each entry. The parade lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, with the experience wrapping up around 16:00.
This year's theme, "Alles uit de kast" ("Pull Out All the Stops"), challenges the sixteen float-building groups to uncover forgotten stories from the history of the Duchy of Brabant — stories that have never appeared in the parade before. The result promises to be a day filled with creativity, craftsmanship and theatrical spectacle unlike anything else in the Netherlands.
With only 50 places available, the Brabantsedag Experience offers an intimate way to discover one of Brabant's most cherished traditions — not just as a spectator, but as part of the story.
Date: Sunday 30 August 2026
Start: 11:00
Location: Heeze, The Netherlands — 10 minutes' walk from Heeze station (Eindhoven line)
Price: €50 per person (children included)
Tickets: 50 places available, first come, first served Reserve your place at https://www.brabantsedag.nl/experience and discover why Brabantsedag has captured the hearts of generations. Questions? Email experience@brabantsedag.nl.