What to do in Groningen for Music Lovers? 8 Reasons to Visit in 2026

For many, a trip to the north might feel like quite a journey, but for those whose hearts beat faster for live music, vinyl, and unique festivals, Groningen is the only logical destination in 2026. While other cities are often bound by strict closing times, Groningen boasts a nightlife culture that organically flows into the early morning. It is a city where major stars perform at the Stadspark, while the legends of tomorrow are still playing in sweaty basement bars in the Oosterstraat.

1. Visit the XXL Record Fair 2026 at MartiniPlaza

For the collector who loves spending hours hunting for that one 'holy grail', the year starts off right at MartiniPlaza. On Saturday, March 21, 2026, the large spring edition of the XXL Record Fair takes place here. This isn't just a small market; exhibitors from all over Europe come to Groningen with tens of thousands of LPs, singles, and CDs.

Whether you are looking for a rare first pressing of a jazz classic or the latest releases on colored vinyl: the chances of succeeding here are huge. It is a meeting place for enthusiasts where the passion for physical media is more alive than ever. If you can't make it in March, mark Saturday, December 5, 2026, in your calendar for the winter edition. This is also a top event for poster lovers.

2. Festivals in Groningen: The Hullabaloo Line-up for 2026

The big news music lovers across the country have been waiting for was finally announced this week: the line-up for Hullabaloo Festival 2026. On September 5 and 6, the Stadspark will be transformed into a musical paradise with a diverse and powerhouse program.

The organization has gone all out this year with international allure and local pride. Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi brings his emotional anthems to the North, while world-famous DJ Martin Garrix will make the Drafbaan shake with a spectacular set full of hits. For fans of Dutch pop, the headliners are equally impressive: Suzan & Freek and the iconic BLØF will undoubtedly turn the park into one giant choir with their catchy sing-alongs.

We have also created a festival guide for you covering the entire year. This way, you can easily see which festival is happening where, all year round.

3. Local Music Cafés: The Best Spots for Live Music and a Beer

If you want to understand the soul of the Groningen music scene, you have to leave the larger venues behind and dive into the local bars. These are the places where the locals hang out and where instruments are often ready for a spontaneous session.

• Buckshot (Gedempte Zuiderdiep): An absolute favorite. Buckshot is a 'café & vinyl bar' with a laid-back atmosphere. They still spin actual records here, and the upper floor regularly hosts intimate live performances. From Funk, rock, and soul to jazz, indie, blues, and Americana—there is something for everyone.
• Café de Smederij (Tuinstraat): Located in the Hortus neighborhood. Whether it's a singer-songwriter or a blues band tearing the roof off; here you feel the connection between artist and audience up close. Also highly recommended for dedicated jazz fans.
• The Crown (Gedempte Zuiderdiep): A real rock and blues bar where the love for guitar music takes center stage. The atmosphere is always friendly and welcoming.
• Metal-café De Witte Wolf (Gedempte Zuiderdiep): The only true metal café in the city center of Groningen.

4. Record Stores in the City Center

You don't have to wait for a big fair to expand your collection. Groningen has some of the most characteristic record stores in the country.

• Plato (Oude Ebbingestraat): In addition to a massive selection, Plato is known for its 'instores'. You might just catch a famous artist performing an intimate mini-concert among the record bins.
• Elpee (Oosterstraat): A shop with a soul and crates full of discoveries. The owners know everything about music and are happy to give you a personal tip. For 30 years, they have been the specialist shop for CDs and LPs.
• De Jongens van Hemmes (Steentilstraat): The ideal place for an excellent cup of coffee while browsing the bins of new vinyl. They specialize in Pop & Rock but know a bit about almost everything.

5. For the Musicians: Instruments and Craftsmanship

Groningen doesn't just attract listeners; it's also a magnet for active musicians looking for quality and advice.

• Terts & Toets (Nieuwe Ebbingestraat): A paradise for every musician. From guitars to digital pianos and a vast collection of sheet music.
• Westerhaven Muziek (A-straat 15): A super cool music store located at the beautiful Westerhaven. With a wide range of guitars, basses, keys, and much more!

6. VERA: The Legendary Pop Temple in the Oosterstraat

No musical trip to Groningen is complete without an evening at VERA, the 'Club for the Pop Culture'. Big names like Nirvana played here before they filled stadiums. In 2026, VERA remains the place to discover the best new alternative bands in an authentic setting.

• Ploegendienst (April 16, 2026): On April 16, Ploegendienst comes to VERA. Still 100% anti-everything punk. Want to spend an evening letting loose and not caring about anyone or anything? Then this is the event for you.
• Don Melody Club (May 7, 2026): Originally started as the solo project of Donald Madjid, Don Melody Club has grown into a full-fledged five-piece live band. Their music moves between the rhythmic patterns of Talking Heads, the melancholy of Doe Maar, and the depth of dub.

7. Major Events at Stadspark and Noorderzon

Besides Hullabaloo, there is more large-scale excitement to experience. On Friday, June 12, 2026, Snow Patrol will perform at the Stadspark for a spectacular open-air concert and is therefore part of Summerstage 2026. In addition to Snow Patrol, Summerstage will also feature Kraantje Pappie on June 13th and Mumford & Sons on July 1st. And of course, don't forget Noorderzon (August 20 to 30, 2026), where the Noorderplantsoen transforms into a cultural and musical park with many free-access concerts.

8. SPOT Groningen: De Oosterpoort

For concerts in a setting with unparalleled acoustics, you can head to De Oosterpoort.

• De Jeugd van Tegenwoordig (March 13, 2026): After 3 sold-out shows at the Ziggo Dome, DJVT is coming to the High North. For over two decades, De Jeugd has been one of the main suppliers of the best raps, beats, and incredibly good hits like 'Sterrenstof' & 'Watskeburt?!'.
• Rhythm & Blues Night (May 2, 2026): A staple on the calendar for blues lovers from all over the Netherlands for decades.
• Dotan (October 2 & 23, 2026): After major hits and worldwide tours, Dotan returns with new work that is closer to himself—and us—than ever before.

Plan Your Musical City Trip to Groningen

If you are coming from another part of the Netherlands, the train is the most relaxed option. From the beautiful Main Station, you can walk to the city center within ten minutes. Looking for a place to stay during the record fair in March or the Hullabaloo festival? Groningen offers a wide range of accommodations, from boutique hotels near the Grote Markt to cozy B&Bs. Make sure to book in advance, as the city fills up quickly during these popular events.

Our Partner Hotels

• The Market Hotel: This luxury hotel is located on the Grote Markt, in the bustling heart of Groningen. The hotel features 123 luxury rooms and is the ultimate base for anyone wanting to explore the city.
• Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys: For an optimal stay in Groningen, stay in the beautiful monumental and historic building of Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys in the heart of the center.
• The Happy Traveler: An enthusiastic travel-themed hotel with a wide range of rooms for all budgets. The hotel also features a very cozy roof terrace, highly recommended for the upcoming nice weather.

Book your stay here!

Groningen is ready to welcome you with the best live music and an atmosphere that will stay with you for a long time. See you soon in the High North!