Sint Maarten is traditionally a time in the Netherlands when children go door-to-door with lanterns to collect candy. In Groningen, the tradition includes hollowing out sugar beets. However, a new tradition will be added: the Sunnemeerten Parade, which has taken place for the first time in 2025.

The Inspiration for the Sunnemeerten Parade 2026

The Sint Maarten Parade in Utrecht has been one of the highlights of the year for many years. About 1500 people participate in the parade, where participants walk in glowing costumes surrounded by impressive light sculptures made of paper. These artworks, requiring much effort and creativity, are no ordinary lights, but true masterpieces.

Hannelore Duynstee, a familiar figure in the Groningen cultural scene, attended the parade in Utrecht last year and was immediately inspired. "A former colleague at Vrijdag pointed me to the parade. Out of curiosity, I went to see how they did it and was immediately struck by the beauty and atmosphere," she says.

What Makes the Parade in Utrecht So Special?

What stood out to Hannelore was that the parade in Utrecht was carried by the city's residents, not by commercial interests. "There was no advertising to be seen. It was purely from the people themselves, which gave it a serene yet festive atmosphere," Hannelore explains.

This is exactly the kind of atmosphere she wants to create in Groningen. The Sunnemeerten Parade will light up the city with art and culture in 2025, focusing on the collective wonder of the participants and the audience.

Sunnemeerten Parade in Groningen: Art and Connection

The first edition of the Sunnemeerten Parade has taken place on November 8, 2025. A lot of preparation has been done for this major event. "We will open workshops at five locations throughout the city where Groningen residents, guided by an artist, can design and create light sculptures," says Hannelore.

Hannelore hopes that the Sunnemeerten Parade will not only be a light spectacle but also a way to connect people in the city. "The lead-up is crucial. By creating art together, we hope to connect the people of Groningen and help them discover their talents."

Music and Performances in the Sunnemeerten Parade

To complete the parade, musicians, theatermakers, and circus performers will also participate. "We want to involve them from the beginning so that the light sculptures and performances are well coordinated. Some artists will walk along, while others will be stationed at fixed points along the route," explains Hannelore. For example, a choir of less mobile people will perform on a stage along the route.
 

Looking back at the first Sunnemeerten Parade (2025) in Groningen

The first edtion of Sunnemeerten Parade in Groningen has taken place on November 8, 2025. The organization, under the banner of Stichting Sunnemeerten, expected about 650 participants. "Groningers are often cautious, but we're going big right from the start. This is going to be a spectacle," was the quote then from Hannelore. In reality more than thousands of viewers came to check the Sunnemeerten Parade! The first edition of Sunnemeerten proved to be a remarkable success. Thousands of spectators lined the route to witness the luminous artworks, which filled the city with light, joy, and a sense of connection. The magical glow of the light sculptures still lingers in the streets days later. On 8 November 2025, the mayor and the children’s mayor officially opened the very first parade in Groningen. Those wishing to support Sunnemeerten can make a donation via the link below:
Donate here

Join and Experience the Sunnemeerten Parade 2026

Want to know more about the Sunnemeerten Parade in Groningen? Or would you like to participate in making light sculptures and artworks for the parade? Keep an eye on the website for updates and details about participation and the parade route.

This new light event promises to be a magical celebration for both young and old, and a beautiful way to connect the city of Groningen through art and culture. Don’t miss it!