Ascension Day in a safari tent
Ascension Day 2026 falls on Thursday, May 14, and for many people, it’s the perfect time for a long weekend away. With an extra day off often taken on Friday, it creates an ideal opportunity to get away. Throughout the country, festivals, markets, and sporting events are organized during the Ascension weekend. To help you get started, we’ve listed 5 fun activities for Ascension Day 2026. Perfect to combine with a relaxing stay in a safari tent in the middle of nature.
Go Dauwtrappen on the Veluwe, extra easy with a glamping stay nearby!
A true Dutch Ascension tradition is dauwtrappen: getting up early and heading into nature at sunrise. This is especially nice if you’re already staying nearby, waking up in a nature-rich environment. On the Veluwe, dauwtrappen is extra special. As the morning mist slowly lifts, you can enjoy vast heathlands, forests, and perhaps even wild animals. Many people choose to walk or take a leisurely bike ride and then enjoy breakfast together. A perfect way to start the day relaxed during a glamping weekend.
De HappyFarm Recreation Park De Scherpenhof
Stroll through the Bloemetjesmarkt in Leeuwarden
Around Ascension, the cozy Bloemetjesmarkt takes place in Leeuwarden. This colorful market is full of stalls selling flowers, plants, and garden accessories. In addition to flowers, you’ll also find regional products, treats, and charming terraces. The atmospheric city center of Leeuwarden makes it a great destination for a day out. Combine your visit with a stay in a safari tent in Friesland and make it a full weekend.
Camping de Kleine Wielen Natuurlijk de Veenhoop
Enjoy music and fun for all ages at Op de T in Bergen op Zoom
During Ascension, the Wilhelminaveld in Bergen op Zoom turns into a lively festival ground for Op de T. This free festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and the combination of live music and activities for the whole family. Various artists perform on multiple stages, so music can be heard all day long.
There’s plenty for children to do as well, with a special kids’ program including fun activities and entertainment so that the youngest visitors never get bored. While the children play or participate in activities, parents can enjoy the music, a drink, or a snack from the food trucks on site.
Thanks to the mix of music, fun, and children’s activities, Op de T is a great activity during the Ascension weekend for the whole family. Combine a visit to this festival with a stay in a nearby safari tent for a full weekend getaway.
De Gorishoekse Hoeve Camping de Heerlijkheid Vorenseinde
Visit the Jaarmarkt Festival in Den Hout
During Ascension, the village of Den Hout (North Brabant) transforms into a large and cozy festival site for the Jaarmarkt Festival. This event has been held for over 40 years and attracts many visitors each year who come to enjoy the combination of market, music, and entertainment. During the day, you can wander around a large market with hundreds of stalls selling everything from clothing and jewelry to gifts, flowers, and delicious regional products. Live music and performances take place on various stages, creating a festive atmosphere all day long.
For families with children, there is a special kids’ area with activities such as crafts, face painting, workshops, and theater performances. Additionally, street theater and performances ensure there is something to see and do all over the festival grounds. With a mix of market, music, and children’s activities, the Jaarmarkt Festival in Den Hout is a fun and complete outing for the whole family during the Ascension weekend.
Camping de Zwammenberg Camping de Heerlijkheid Vorenseinde
Visit the Ascension Fair in Hoensbroek
During Ascension, the center of Hoensbroek transforms into a large and lively market for the annual Braderie Hoensbroek. This fair has been held since 1971 and attracts thousands of visitors every year. In the streets of the town center, you’ll find hundreds of stalls selling clothing, accessories, regional products, and all kinds of treats.
In addition to the market, there are live performances and music, creating a festive atmosphere. For children, there is a special kids’ area with attractions and activities. A fun outing for the whole family during the Ascension weekend.
Camping La Dolce Vita Camping Mareveld Camping de Boskant
