While the calendar is the most complete listing of events, I’ve compiled this list with some of the highlights. I’ll be adding events as I find them. Of course, if you would like to add something, let us know in the comments. I’ll leave this up for future reference for next year too.
Feb 7-16 – Brussels Chocolate Week
March 3 – Rosenmontag (Rose Monday) – One of the craziest days of Carnival. Many towns host parades on this holiday. Cologne has an enormous parade that starts at 1030am.
April 19 – May 5 – Ocher Bend in Aachen – This fun fair is held in Bendplatz, Aachen, right next to the Aachen West train station. They have all sorts of rides for young and old.
May-Sept – Rhine in Flames – See the link for dates. This firework show travels up and down the Rhine throughout the summer.
20-29 June – Pilgrimage to Aachen Dom – The relics are on display during this time and will not be opened again for 7 years.
28 June – Extra Shift – Night of industrial culture in the Ruhr river valley.
11-20 July – Dusseldorf Fun Fair – This huge fair claims to be the biggest on the Rhine.
11-20 July – CHIO in Aachen – A must for any horse enthusiast.
19 July – Kolner Lichter – By far the best fireworks show I have ever seen. Reserve a seat on one of the participating river cruise boats or watch for free on the banks for the Rhine.
August 2-3 – Amsterdam Pride – Sure to be one crazy weekend in Amsterdam.
August 8-18 – Ocher Bend in Aachen
August 21-24 – Weinsommer in Aachen – A compact wine fest next to the Aachen Dom.
Sept 13-14 – NL Open Monument Day – visit some monuments that are closed to visitors during the rest of the year.
Nov 21-Dec 24 – Christmas Market Season
Here At Gk 