English report：Lianne Baaij
Scheveningen, The Hague – June 19, 2026
On June 19, 2026, the official opening of the
Dutch herring season was celebrated in grand style with the Netherlands’
largest Herring Party, held at the vibrant harbor of Scheveningen in The Hague.
This iconic Dutch summer event not only marked the arrival of the highly
anticipated Hollandse Nieuwe but also provided a unique platform for
cultural exchange and business networking between the Netherlands, China, and
the international business community.
Business leaders, representatives from the
fishing industry, entrepreneurs, and international guests gathered to celebrate
the new herring season while enjoying an event that seamlessly combined Dutch
maritime traditions with modern business relations.
A Warm Welcome
and Outstanding Hospitality
The event venue at Dr. Lelykade was transformed
into a festive setting filled with music, hospitality, and culinary delights.
Three exclusive VIP entrances, hosted by VNC, MIDO, and Wuliangye, welcomed
guests in style. Upon arrival, visitors received official event wristbands from
hosts and hostesses dressed in traditional Scheveningen costumes, setting the
tone for an authentic and memorable experience.
The atmosphere was lively and relaxed. Fresh
herring, delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and live music created the perfect
setting for networking, socializing, and celebrating the start of the new
season. Guests from both the Dutch and Asian business communities enjoyed
meaningful conversations while strengthening existing relationships and
creating new opportunities.
Honouring the
Event Partners
Against the backdrop of the Scheveningen harbor,
guests were welcomed by Mr. Marc Godschalk, representative of The Hague, who
officially opened the festivities with a welcoming speech.
One of the highlights of the event was the Partner Appreciation Ceremony. Representatives from the event’s key partners, including VNC, MIDO, Wuliangye, Business Netwerk Haaglanden, Belangenvereniging Scheveningen Haven, and the Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association, were invited on stage to participate in a traditional Dutch herring tasting ceremony.
As they sampled the season’s first fresh herring
together, the audience celebrated not only a cherished Dutch tradition but also
the strong partnerships and friendships that made the event possible. The ceremony
symbolized the successful collaboration between international businesses and
the Dutch maritime sector.
The Rich
Heritage of Dutch Herring
Herring occupies a unique place in Dutch history
and culture. As early as the 14th century, Dutch fishermen developed an
innovative method of preserving herring by removing the intestines while
retaining essential enzymes, significantly extending its shelf life. This
breakthrough contributed greatly to the growth of Dutch maritime trade and
played an important role during the Dutch Golden Age.
Today, herring remains one of the Netherlands’
most beloved culinary traditions and is often referred to as the country’s
national fish. The Hollandse Nieuwe season runs from May through July,
when the herring reaches its ideal fat content and flavour.
Traditionally, herring is eaten by holding it by
the tail and lowering it into the mouth, often accompanied by finely chopped
onions and pickles. The annual Herring Festival, known as Vlaggetjesdag,
celebrates the arrival of the new catch and has evolved into a nationwide event
that combines cultural heritage, community spirit, and festive celebrations.
A Unique
Culinary Experience
At the heart of the event was an exceptional
culinary experience featuring fresh herring, gourmet snacks, premium beverages,
and signature cocktails.
The renowned Atlantic Seafood herring cart and
Het Havenpaleis ensured the highest quality and freshness of the seafood served
throughout the evening. Guests were also treated to specially crafted Bols Corenwyn
cocktails, created by Cocktail Boutique, which perfectly complemented the fresh
seafood offerings.
A particular highlight was the exclusive tasting
area hosted by Wuliangye and MIDO. Here, guests discovered premium Chinese
spirits and innovative cocktails featuring Wuliangye as a key ingredient. Hosts
dressed in traditional attire elegantly served signature drinks from both
brands, adding an extra touch of cultural sophistication.
This unique combination of Dutch herring
traditions and Chinese baijiu culture created a memorable East-meets-West
experience that was widely appreciated by attendees. The fusion of flavours,
traditions, and hospitality became one of the defining features of the evening.
Tradition
Meets International Business
The organizers expressed their gratitude to all
partners, sponsors, and guests for their enthusiastic participation and
support. They emphasized that the event not only celebrated the rich maritime
heritage of the Netherlands but also demonstrated how traditional cultural
events can serve as powerful platforms for international business connections.
The 2026 edition of the Netherlands’ Largest
Herring Party proved to be a remarkable celebration of Dutch herring culture
while successfully fostering new business relationships and strengthening
international cooperation. The event left a lasting impression on all attendees
and once again highlighted the enduring appeal of one of the Netherlands’ most
cherished traditions.
