haarlemsdagbladMar 20, 2026, 15:47

Haarlem choir hopes to attract young audience with Bavo performance: 'We hope to bring different layers of the city together'

The newly formed ensemble Bavocale Haarlemse will perform "Ceremony of Passion" at the Grote of Sint-Bavokerk in Haarlem on March 22nd. Led by conductor Benjamin Bakker, the performance combines contemporary choral music and spoken word to attract a younger audience and unite the community. The event aims to bring different layers of the city together through diverse musical and instrumental styles.

Culture Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Don't get angry! Here's what's happening during National Games Week in Haarlem

Haarlem is hosting the National Board Game Week from October 26 to November 1 to encourage social interaction through tabletop games. Residents of all skill levels are invited to participate in various activities at locations like the Teylers Museum and the youth center @ease.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Old biscuit factory in Haarlem becomes haunted hotel for Halloween

The former De Volharding factory in Haarlem-Noord is being transformed into the Haunted Transue Hotel from October 28 to 31. Architect Adam Transue designed the attraction using recycled materials to provide an immersive Halloween experience for the public.

Watch out for the Spanish! This walk takes you back centuries in Haarlem

Haarlem will host a StoryTrail theater walk on October 18, where storyteller Franciscus will bring local legends and history to life for participants. The tour features tales of historical figures like Kenau Simonsdochter Hasselaer and requires advanced ticket bookings.

Looking for a friendly chat? Step into the yellow square at the station on Wednesday

To promote social connection, the Week of the Chat initiative is launching in Haarlem on October 14, featuring a designated yellow zone at the train station where people can meet for casual conversations. Inspired by research from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the project aims to help individuals feel happier and less lonely by encouraging social interaction and boosting confidence.