What to Do in Groningen in April?
Are you ready to explore the events this month? With national holidays and many new one-off events, April promises to be full of exciting and diverse activities.
4–6 & 9–13 April - Own This Shit! by YoungGangsters
Groningen will host Own This Shit!, an anarchist action show by YoungGangsters that revives the rebellious energy of the 1980s squatters’ movement. Expect an immersive experience filled with punk music, activism, and social commentary, performed at Wenutbutter on Oosterhamrikkade. Ticket holders will receive more details shortly before the show.
5 April - SportEiland Zwemloop at Zernike
Tritanium, the Groningen Student Triathlon Association, invites athletes and students to take part in the annual SportEiland Zwemloop at Willem-Alexander Sportcentrum. Participants can challenge themselves with swimming and running distances of 500m swim + 5km run or 1000m swim + 10km run. The event is also looking for volunteers to help on race day.
6 April - Urban Trail Groningen
The Urban Trail returns to Groningen on 6 April 2025, offering runners a unique chance to explore the city’s hidden gems. Choose between a short (5-6 km) or long (10-12 km) route through the historic streets, squares, and iconic buildings of Groningen. Starting and finishing at the Vismarkt, this urban run is all about discovering the city in an active and fun way.
7 April - Horeca Fight Night at Suikerunie
After several successful editions in Amsterdam, Horeca Boxing is coming to Groningen for the very first time! On 7 April 2025, the Suikerunie will host an electrifying evening where Groningen’s horeca staff step into the ring after three months of intense kickboxing training. Expect thrilling fights, special acts, and an unforgettable afterparty, all under the supervision of the official kickboxing federation. Tickets are available now!
9–13 April - Kermis Groningen Meerstad
Get ready for five days of fun at the Kermis in Groningen Meerstad, taking place from 9 to 13 April 2025 on Vossenburglaan. This local fair will feature around 7 to 20 attractions, including rides, games, food stalls, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Although Meerstad is located just outside Groningen, it’s the perfect spot for a festive day out with family and friends.
12 April - Next Call Surprise Concerts in Groningen
On Saturday 12 April, Groningen’s city centre will host three short surprise concerts as part of the commemoration of 80 years of liberation. The concerts will feature Next Call, a composition by Nanne van der Werff with text by Fons van Wanroij, inspired by avant-garde writings of local artist H.N. Werkman. The performances will take place in unexpected public locations around Waagplein, inviting passersby to reflect and listen. This special event is free to attend.
11–13 April - Special Edition of the Women's March
This year’s edition of the Vrouwenmars (Women’s March) will be a special one, commemorating 80 years of freedom and honouring the 116 women who, in 1945, were forced to march from Camp Westerbork to Grijpskerk. The three-day remembrance walk will follow the historical route, passing through places like Assen and Groningen. Participants can join for one, two, or all three days, covering 20-30 km per day, or choose a shorter 5 km route with a guided tour. The march starts on 11 April at Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork.
15 April – OG Roadshow at Euroborg
On 15 April, the OG Roadshow comes to Euroborg in Groningen, focusing on sustainable transport solutions. Visitors can test drive Bio-CNG trucks, attend short talks from industry experts, and learn about practical ways to make transport greener. The event runs from 14:00 to 20:00 and entrance is free.
18 April – Bloemenjaarmarkt in Groningen
The annual Bloemenjaarmarkt returns to Groningen on 18 April 2025, just before Easter. This colourful flower market fills the city centre with hundreds of stalls offering flowers, plants, seeds, gardening tools and more. The market stretches across Oude Ebbingestraat, Grote Markt, Nieuwe Markt and A-Kerkhof. Visitors can use the free flower depot on the Grote Markt to store their purchases while exploring the market and the city.
20 April – Traditional Easter Fire in Onnen
Celebrate Easter the local way at the annual Paasvuur (Easter Fire) in Onnen. On Sunday, 20 April 2025, the festive bonfire will be lit at the intersection of Koelenbergsteeg and Onneresweg. Visitors are welcome to gather around 19:45, with the fire being ignited at 20:00. The event is organized by Stichting Dieverdoatie and is a beloved tradition in the village, bringing together locals and visitors alike for this atmospheric Easter evening.
25-26 April – Kingsnight Music & Party at Poeleplein
Get ready for one of Groningen’s liveliest King’s Night celebrations at Poeleplein! On the night of 25 to 26 April 2025, the square will once again transform into a festive hotspot filled with music and energy. After a pause last year, the iconic Poeleplein party is expected to return, continuing a tradition that has brought thousands of people together for over 30 years. The event starts at 21:00 and lasts until 05:00 the next morning. Entry is free.
25 April – De Helden van Oranje at Stadspark Groningen
Celebrate King’s Night in style at De Helden van Oranje, one of Groningen’s biggest singalong parties. On Friday 25 April 2025, Stadspark will once again host this massive event filled with Dutch party hits and live performances. The royal line-up includes Marco Schuitmaker, Donnie, Frans Bauer, Snollebollekes, Charly Lownoise, FeestDJRuud, and many more. Expect an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and festive vibes. The event takes place at Stadspark Groningen.
