Sweater weather is back! And while the days might be getting colder, there's still plenty to enjoy in Groningen. We've put together some of our favourite autumn activities to help you make the most of the season!
Halloween celebrations
Autumn also means it's time to celebrate Halloween! Although Halloween isn't one of the biggest celebrations in the Netherlands, Groningen has plenty of activities to get you into the spooky spirit. From scary films to costume parties, there's something for everyone! We've listed a few events below so you can pick your favourite.
- Party: Kopjek liccen Halloween x Misfit Slutoween (24 October, 23:00–05:00)
- Film + experience: Zienema: The Fly (27 October, 20:30–22:30)
- Live music party: Rapalje Celtic Halloween (31 October, from 17:00)
- Halloween pub quiz: DOT (30 October, from 20:00)
- Film + food: DOT (31 October)
- Horror film marathon: Forum (31 October, 18:30–02:00)
- Party: Halloween Clubnight Palace (31 October, from 23:00)
Light parade
On 7 November, Groningen's city centre will be a little brighter than usual! From 18:00 to 20:00, a light parade featuring all kinds of illuminated white sculptures will make its way through the city. The parade honours Saint Martin, the patron saint of Groningen, after whom the city's famous Martinikerk and Martinitoren are named.
Want to catch a glimpse of the parade? The route takes you through Oosterkade, Steentilstraat, Gedempte Zuiderdiep, Folkingestraat, Stoeldraaierstraat, Zwanestraat, Oude Boteringestraat, Rode Weeshuisstraat and Oude Ebbingestraat, before ending at the Grote Markt at around 19:15.
Photo: Niels Knelis
Starry nights
The darker autumn nights offer the perfect opportunity to admire one of nature's most beautiful sights: the stars! One of the best places to do this is Dark Sky Park Lauwersmeer, near Lauwersoog in the province of Groningen. It's a wonderful place to walk, sit or lie down in the darkness and simply enjoy the starry sky.
October has even been dubbed the 'Month of Darkness', with various activities organised around this theme. Take a look at Visit Groningen to discover what's on!
Photo: Rutger Bus
Walking
Autumn is the season that paints nature in warmer colours, brings cooler days and makes the evenings a little darker. On those lovely autumn days when the sun still makes an appearance, there's nothing better than going for a stroll through the city or exploring the great outdoors.
And Groningen has so much to offer! Follow the art route through Groningen's city centre or explore the Oosterparkwijk on a street art-inspired route.
There are plenty of great walking opportunities outside the city, too. Visit Groningen has put together a list of beautiful walks where you can soak up the fresh autumn air and admire the changing colours.
Don't feel like walking alone, or don't have anyone to join you? IWCN organises walks every Sunday throughout the year. All you need to do is sign up and check where the next walk will take place!
Board games
Autumn weather isn't always the most inviting for outdoor activities, but that doesn't mean you have to stay at home feeling bored! Board games are the perfect way to spend a rainy autumn day. And if you don't have anyone to play with, Groningen has several places that organise board game nights.
IWCN, Purperen Draak and Rabenhaupt all organise game nights. Alternatively, head to Forum for a game of Dungeons & Dragons. Check their schedules to find out when the next (board) game evening takes place!
Photo: Miguel Restituyo
Looking for more international-friendly events? Check www.hereandnow.nl!