Bloemenjaarmarkt, the Largest Plant and Flower Market in the Northern Netherlands
Tomorrow March 29th, you can explore the green heart of the city and wander through floral mazes.
Made up of over 100 different vendors offering a wide range of plants, seeds, flowers, tools and accessories. This market will spread through Oude Ebbingestraat, the Guldenstraat, the Nieuwe Markt, the A-Kerkhof, and both the Vismarkt and Grote Markt in the city centre.
In 1964, the weekly market from the city centre was moved to Westerhaven after market traders complained about the constantly moving locations of the stands in the city centre. There used to be roads and traffic going directly through the centre and markets until the traffic circulation plan came into effect in 1977. The Government did everything it could to make the centre more attractive and walkable for its residents by demarcating pedestrian zones, planting trees, and organising more regular events using the beautiful public space.
The first Bloemenjaarmarkt was held in 1983 to mark the fifth anniversary of the market's return from Westerhaven to the city centre. Since then, it has become an eagerly anticipated and highly appreciated annual event. This year marks the 40th market, with one missed due to Covid. As part of the celebration, a free flower-arranging workshop will be held at the Nieuwe Markt.
With so much to explore on the day and so many more things to buy, the Spring market offers a free flower depot where you can leave your plants and items while you continue to shop, allowing you to walk around freely and collect your wares when you are ready to go home.
Find some colour for your garden and enjoy the day walking around the fragrant city centre, enjoying the (hopefully) sunny spring weather. Don’t forget to stop by one of the many terraces, cafes, and restaurants that Groningen has to offer!