Openingsfestival Zuiderplantsoen
Zuiderplantsoen
Weg der Verenigde Naties, 9725 AK GroningenZuiderplantsoen Opening Festival – 13 September 2025
With the Zuiderplantsoen Opening Festival, project organization Aanpak Ring Zuid celebrates the opening of the new Zuiderplantsoen on top of Groningen’s southern ring road. The Zuiderplantsoen is located on the site of the old ring road, which now runs underground between the Hereweg and the Oude Winschoterdiep. At the same time, we celebrate the completion of the Aanpak Ring Zuid project, which caused inconvenience for local residents and organizations for many years.
Program
- 12:00–13:00 • Neighborhood Brunch
Enjoy brunch together with your neighbors from Rivierenbuurt, Herewegbuurt, Oosterpoort, and De Linie. Registration is closed.
- 13:00–13:30 • Official Opening
A festive opening featuring four children from the surrounding neighborhoods, accompanied by Fanfare Juliana Aduard.
- 13:00–17:00 • Summer Market
Along nearly one kilometer of the Esperantopad you’ll find stalls from local entrepreneurs and small shops. Food trucks will provide snacks, bites, and drinks.
- 13:00–16:00 • Children’s Flea Market
Children up to 12 years old from the surrounding neighborhoods can sell their toys and books at the kids’ flea market. No registration needed – just bring a blanket!
- 13:00–17:00 • Children’s Meadow
The Zuiderplantsoen is already one big playground, but on this day there will be extra attractions and activities for kids.
- 13:30–15:30 • Neighborhood Stage
An open stage for anyone to show their talents in music, dance, or more. Sign up via info@aanpakringzuid.nl.
- 13:30–17:00 • Open Doors Tour
Visit various locations in and around the Zuiderplantsoen for free. Collect stamps and receive a fun souvenir. A unique chance to climb the DUO building! Participants: DUO/Belastingdienst, Buurt- en speeltuinvereniging De Oosterpoort, Geheugenbalkon, R.K. Kerkhof.
- 13:30–17:00 • Excursions
Discover the stories of the area – from history (including Bommen Berend) to urban development – on foot or by bike. Check the excursion overview on site.
- 15:15–15:30 • Unveiling of Photo Mosaic
Photo mosaic at the corner of H.L. Wichersstraat / Verlengde Meeuwerderweg, made from photos of RingLopen (31 August). Unveiled by Bert Kramer (Combinatie Herepoort).
- 15:30–17:00 • Performance by Pé & Rinus with Gruno's Postharmonie
A spectacular finale on the main stage. Expect popular sing-alongs and a musical tribute to the Zuiderplantsoen. We want more!
- 17:00 • End
About the Zuiderplantsoen in Groningen
The Zuiderplantsoen lies above the sunken southern ring road, between the Hereweg and the Oude Winschoterdiep. The park connects green history with modern urban nature and is car-free with wide walking and cycling paths. Read more about the Zuiderplantsoen!
Practical Tips
- Whenever possible, come on foot or by bike.
- Bring a debit/credit card; not all stalls accept cash.
- Expect crowds along the Esperantopad during the Summer Market.
For the Neighborhoods & the Entire City
The festival is for everyone in the municipality of Groningen, with special attention for the surrounding neighborhoods: Rivierenbuurt, Herewegbuurt, Oosterpoort, and De Linie.
