What to Do in Groningen in August?
From summer festivals to major sporting events, here’s everything happening in Groningen this August. Don’t miss out!
August 2 – Happy Feelings Festival at Graanfabriek Groningen
The Happy Feelings Festival returns to Groningen with a high-energy celebration at the iconic Graanfabriek. Kicking off at 14:00, this summer edition brings a stacked lineup including Turfy Gang, Mr. Belt & Wezol, Rozie, LAMMER, and more. With its industrial setting, expansive grounds, and dazzling visuals, the venue sets the perfect stage for a day filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable moments. After last year’s success, this promises to be one of the city’s standout parties of the season.
August 11–15 – KEI Week Groningen 2025
KEI Week returns from August 11 to 15, welcoming thousands of new students to Groningen with five full days of exploration, connection, and celebration. From the Information Market and City Walks to karaoke on the Grote Markt, a massive Pub Crawl, and the vibrant Fiesta de CASA finale, the week offers a deep dive into everything the city’s student life has to offer. With sports, culture, music, and late-night parties, KEI Week is the ultimate introduction to Groningen—and an unmissable start to student life.
August 13 – Children's Carnival Parade in Beijum
Colorful costumes, cheerful music, and big smiles will fill the streets of Beijum on August 13 during the annual Children’s Carnival Parade. Starting at the meeting point on Beijumerweg, this joyful procession brings together local kids and families for a festive walk through the neighborhood. Organized with official permission from the municipality, the parade promises a fun and safe experience for all ages—a heartwarming highlight of summer in Groningen.
August 13 – September 14 – Gronieken in Meerstad
Zummerbühne returns this summer with Gronieken, a large-scale open-air music theatre production set in Meerstad from August 13 to September 14. Inspired by a mysterious archaeological find beneath the Grote Markt, the story explores ancient myths and untold histories connecting Groningen to the rest of Europe. With a cast of renowned actors, a full orchestra and choir, and striking stage design, Gronieken offers an immersive theatrical experience in the heart of the province. Tickets start at €38, with optional dinner packages available via Zummerbühne’s website.
August 14–24 – Noorderzon Festival in Noorderplantsoen
Noorderzon Festival returns for its 35th edition, bringing eleven days of international performing arts and lively summer festivities to Groningen’s Noorderplantsoen and city center. Blending theater, music, literature, and visual arts with a relaxed open-air atmosphere, the festival offers both free events and ticketed shows featuring artists from around the globe. With food trucks, public talks, family activities, and late-night performances, Noorderzon is a highlight of the cultural calendar and a must-visit for locals and newcomers alike.
August 16–17 – Circus Snor at Camping De Kleine Wereld in Onnen
Circus Snor brings its magical new show Elephant Terrible to Onnen on August 16 and 17 for a weekend of fun, acrobatics, and interactive entertainment. Hosted at Camping De Kleine Wereld, this nostalgic circus experience includes not only a spectacular performance under the big top, but also a Kinderkaravaan filled with games, circus tricks, popcorn, and cotton candy. The full program lasts about two hours, and kids up to 2 years old can attend for free when seated on a parent’s lap. Perfect for a family outing in a playful summer setting.
August 20–22 – Luchtkussenfestival at BSV Selwerd
BSV Selwerd wraps up the summer with its annual Luchtkussenfestival, three fun-filled days of bouncing, playing, and cooling off for kids aged 4 to 15. From August 20 to 22, the playground transforms into an inflatable paradise with changing attractions each day, water games, and shaded rest areas. The festival runs from 12:00 to 17:00 and is completely free. Children under 6 must be accompanied, and registration is required at the entrance. Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel—summer fun awaits in Selwerd!
August 24 – ReCharge & ReSearch at DOT Dome
Step into an immersive 360° experience at the DOT Dome on August 24 with ReCharge & ReSearch, a unique blend of art and science created by Delic & Huda in collaboration with RUG psychologists. Surrounded by hypnotic visuals and music—including binaural beats—you’ll not only unwind but also contribute to live research on how art affects the mind. The 14:00 session is in Dutch, the 16:00 session in English. Admission is free, but bring your smartphone for the interactive research element.
August 27 – September 3 – Open Toernooi Veracket x Ramenlappers at ACLO
Paddel lovers, get ready for a competitive and festive week at the Open Toernooi Veracket x Ramenlappers, taking place from August 27 to September 3 at ACLO in Groningen. Players compete for official KNLTB ratings in singles and doubles, with categories across tennis and paddel. Themed around the OTlympics, the tournament also features social activities throughout the week. Entry is open to external players, and you can register with a partner via the official KNLTB platform. Whether you're competing or cheering, it's set to be a sporty and social highlight.
August 28 – Groningens Ontzet 2025
Groningen bursts into celebration on August 28 for Groningens Ontzet, the annual commemoration of the city's liberation from siege in 1672. From early morning re-enactments and bell ringing to dragon boat races, theater, and fireworks, the entire city center comes alive with activity. Highlights include the Ontzettende Markt, the Groote Maaltijd at the Akerk, and the grand fireworks show at 22:30 at Zuiderhaven. With historical tributes, live music, kids' activities, and street parties stretching into the night, this citywide festivity offers something for everyone.
August 30 – Groningen Swim Challenge
The Groningen Swim Challenge makes waves again on August 30, uniting hundreds of swimmers for a powerful cause: raising funds for cancer research at the UMCG. Participants dive into the water for one of three events—Classic Swim, City Swim, and Junior City Swim—each taking place across the city and its surrounding waters. Whether you’re swimming the distance, cheering from the side, or donating to a team, this annual event combines sports, community, and purpose. So far, over €48,000 has been raised.
August 30 – ZomerReces Festival at Graanfabriek
ZomerReces Festival returns on August 30 for a high-energy finale to the summer at Graanfabriek in Groningen. From 14:00 to midnight, partygoers can expect a full day of electronic music, with house, techno, and disco beats from artists like De Sluwe Vos, Mononoid, Talismann, and Laura Meester. Set in the industrial atmosphere of the Graanfabriek, the event promises an unforgettable indoor rave with bold visuals and big sound. A must for dance lovers looking to end the season with a bang.
August 31 – September 7 – ITF World Tennis Tour Haren 2025
For the sixth time, the ITF World Tennis Tour Haren takes place on the clay courts of Tennis- en Squashclub Haren from August 31 to September 7. With $15,000 in prize money each for both the men’s and women’s tournaments, the event attracts rising national and international tennis talent. Matches include both singles and doubles, and spectators can enjoy the action on-site or follow it live via KNLTB TV. A great opportunity to catch high-level tennis just outside Groningen.
