Scheveningen – For generations, Vlaggetjesdag has been a defining tradition in Scheveningen, marking the moment when the herring fleet returns to harbour and signalling the start of a lively, musical and historical weekend where past and present come together, with the fishing industry as the connecting thread. Despite the limitations of recent years – caused by the pandemic, the Ocean Race and the NATO summit – the strength of the event has never diminished. In 2026, Vlaggetjesdag will return in full form on Saturday 20 June at the Scheveningen harbour.
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Friday 19 June – Herring Party
As always, Vlaggetjesdag opens the evening before with the arrival of the herring fleet, followed by the annual Herring Party. The Herring Party will take place on Dr. Lelykade (Second Harbour of Scheveningen), near Bistro Parker and Dok28 at the harbour entrance, from 17:00 to 19:00. After the Herring Party, the Vlaggetjesdag Sing Along begins. This one‑and‑a‑half‑hour non‑stop sing‑along event pays tribute this year to Golden Earring. Visitors can also make live song requests.
Saturday 20 June – Fleet Parade, Fishing Vessels and Market
On Saturday 20 June, the entire harbour will host a packed programme, including a fleet parade at sea. In the harbour itself, visitors can tour various fishing vessels and take part in Old Dutch Children’s Games, where the youngest guests can discover traditions of the past in a playful way. Finally, on Saturday you can also visit the small market along the harbour.
Sunday 21 June – Mermaid Parade
A day later, the weekend concludes with the annual Mermaid Parade on the beach of Scheveningen. Visit www.zeemeerminnenparade.nl and sign up if you would still like to parade for clean seawater and the start of summer.