Nijmegen Four Days Marches Festival: The Biggest Party in the Netherlands

A Festival with Historical Roots

The Four Days Marches Festival began in 1970 as a modest addition to the International Four Days Marches, which has been attracting walkers from all over the world to Nijmegen since 1916. What once started as a few performances to entertain walkers has grown into a mega-event that takes over the city. Organised by the Stichting Vierdaagsefeesten, the festival remains completely free thanks to sponsors, local businesses, and around 1,500 volunteers. The motto? Everyone is welcome, whether you walk, dance, or just come for the atmosphere.

The festivities cover the entire centre of Nijmegen, with hotspots such as the Waalkade, where stages are set up along the river, the Valkhof Festival with alternative music, and the Kelfkensbos with its bustling market. From pop and rock to techno, jazz, and Dutch sing-alongs, the Vierdaagsefeesten offers something for everyone. And with the Waalbrug as a backdrop, illuminated by fireworks and laser shows, the atmosphere is magical

Highlights of the Festivities

1. Music on Every Corner With 40 stages and more than 1,200 performances, there is always something to experience. The Matrixx at the Park in Hunnerpark offers dance and EDM, while the Faberplein Stage is known for Dutch-language hits by artists such as Snollebollekes and Mart Hoogkamer. At the Valkhof Festival, you can discover alternative bands and singer-songwriters, often with free admission. In 2024, Goldband stole the show on the Waalkade, with a crowd dancing all the way to the river. One visitor wrote on X: ‘I didn't know I could sing along so loudly to a band I just discovered!’

2. Fireworks and Laser Shows Every evening, the festivities conclude with a spectacular show above the Waal. The Four Days Fireworks Show on the Waalkade is a highlight, with colours illuminating the river. In 2023, a laser show was added, projected onto the Waal Bridge, which sent the audience into ecstasy. A funny moment: a group of friends tried to ‘catch’ the lasers with their hands, resulting in a hilarious video that went viral on TikTok!

3. Pink Monday The Monday of the festivities, also known as Pink Monday, is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. The city centre turns pink, with rainbow flags, drag shows, and an exuberant atmosphere. In 2022, a local LGBTQ+ association organised a spontaneous flash mob on the Grote Markt, where hundreds of people danced to Lady Gaga's Born This Way. It became a symbol of Nijmegen's warm, open vibe.

4. The Waalkade: The Heart of the Party The Waalkade is the place to be for the biggest stages and the liveliest atmosphere. From food trucks with stroopwafels and vegan burgers to bars serving locally brewed Lindeboom beer, this is where it all comes together. A legendary anecdote from 2019: a group of walkers, having just completed their 50 kilometres, joined a karaoke night on the Waalkade and sang an exuberant version of Sweet Caroline. The crowd sang along, and even the bar staff climbed onto the bar to join in!

Why the Four Days Marches Festivities Are a Must-Visit

The Four Days Marches Festival is unique in terms of its scale and accessibility. With 1.5 million visitors – from families and walkers to party-loving young people – it is a celebration for everyone. The diversity of music genres, from Racoon and Suzan & Freek to local DJs and cover bands, ensures that there is always something to suit your taste. The city is perfectly set up: stages are within walking distance, and the Nijmegen Summer Terraces offer places to eat and chill out. For children, there are activities such as face painting and children's discos in the Kronenburgerpark, while adrenaline seekers can enjoy the funfair at the Waalbrug.

Accessibility is excellent: Nijmegen station is a 10-minute walk from the centre, and NS is putting on extra trains. Cyclists will find secure parking facilities, and motorists can park in special areas such as the Wedren. For disabled visitors, there are accessible paths, disabled toilets, and even a special grandstand for the arrival of the walkers on Friday. Want to stay overnight? The Vierdaagse Camping in Heumensoord offers budget-friendly options, with a shuttle to the city.

A Festival that Makes Nijmegen Shine

The Nijmegen Four Days Marches Festival is an ode to hospitality, music and togetherness. Whether you're partying on the Waalkade, cheering on walkers during the Via Gladiola on Friday, or enjoying a moment of peace in the Valkhofpark, this festival captures the soul of Nijmegen. As one visitor wrote on X: ‘Nijmegen in July is one big party – you immediately feel at home!’ So, grab your dancing shoes, sing along to the hits, and dive into the Vierdaagsefeesten from 12 to 18 July 2025. Nijmegen awaits you with open arms!

Practical Tips for a Top Experience

• Plan your route: With 40 stages, it can be overwhelming. Check out the line-up at www.vierdaagsefeesten.nl and choose your favourite acts. The festival app will help you navigate.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially between the Waalkade and Valkhofpark. Waterproof shoes are useful in case of rain.

• Arrive Early for Fireworks: The Waalkade fills up for the shows at 10:30 p.m. Find a spot by the river for the best view.

• Sample Local Cuisine: Try frikandellenbroodjes (fry-up rolls) or a Bossche bol (pastry) at the festival market, and sample a beer from De Hemel brewery.

• Book Accommodation Early: Hotels and campsites fill up quickly. Consider a B&B in surrounding villages such as Malden if Nijmegen is full.