Sittard-Geleen is brimming with activities

Even during the winter, there’s plenty going on in Sittard-Geleen. For example, Wèntjerdruim Sittard (in dialect ‘winter dream’), an enticing winter event which stages a diversity of activities. One of these is the so-called Limburg Christmas Circus, with a circus marquee set up just outside the old town.

Sittard has become a byword for its Oktoberfeest, the largest of its kind in the Netherlands and the biggest autumn event in the southernmost part of the country. National Geographic - no less - has declared it as being one of the 10 best Oktoberfests worldwide. The event attracts tens of thousands visitors from across the country and beyond and it has grown in stature in such a short space of time. The event offers a podium for some leading international artists, a funfair and crowded festival tents. This major festival has now become part of the town’s rich tradition.

In August, the patron saint of St Rosa de Lima takes pride of place in Sittard. This is celebrated every year with a procession from the Rosakapel to the church of St Michael for mass. Around the time of these religious celebrations, several cultural events are planned in and around town. These include a nostalgic street fair, a real-life circus, various exhibitions, Sunday opening and diverse live music performances. As such, Sint Rosa is a family festival for young and old which is deeply rooted in Sittard’s history.

Just before Whitsuntide every year in Geleen is the Gelaender Kirmes, one of the biggest fun fairs in the south of the Netherlands. There are more than 90 stunning attractions on offer for young and old. Try one of the more challenging attractions and enjoy a programme of fringe events, such as street theatre and food-related activities in the heart of Geleen.

Those who enjoy an old-fashioned street market can indulge their desires at the St Joep Market in Sittard. History tells us that the mayor of Sittard gave permission for a market to be held as far back as 1802. After the long winter break, St Joep marks the start of a new season for stallholders, who find themselves wishing each other a Happy New Year. The five kilometres and more of market stalls is a bargain hunter’s delight: not only is there a wonderful atmosphere, but there are fantastic bargains to be had.

Mama’s Pride is a free pop festival which takes place every year during the second weekend of May (around the time of Mother’s Day) in Burgemeester Damenpark in Geleen.

On 20 April 1963, seven boys and three girls from the Bisschoppelijk College in Sittard, set out on the very first Kennedy March in the Netherlands. Named after the former president of the United States, this is an 80-kilometre walk completed within the space of 20 hours. Sittard’s Kennedy March is therefore the oldest of its kind in the Netherlands.