The Dark Days of Delft

The historic town of Delft is picture perfect every day, but at Christmas it is truly magical. Beautifully lit monuments, Christmas lights reflecting in the canals and lots of other festive activities.

After more than twelve hours of working with a crane, it stands upright: the Christmas tree on the Markt. The lights are officially lit on Lichtjesavond. The start of the Dark Days of Delft, which run from December 10 to January 4. Pascalle Slingerland is involved in the coordination on behalf of the De Burgemeesters. “Delft is warm and cozy, it shows even more than usual during this period. Lichtjesavond is the highlight. There are choirs everywhere, the mayor reads a Christmas story, there are children’s activities and you can

buy gifts for under the Christmas tree on the Lichtjesmarkt. Apart from that, people are active for charities or students improvise a mulled wine stall. Lichtjesavond in Delft is a celebration for visitors and residents alike.” There is also plenty to do between December 10 and January 4. There is a skating rink on the TU campus. The local retailers show their best side during the Windows White Awards, a window display contest. And the Santa Run also attracts many visitors every year. Hundreds of Santas sprint through the old center. There are also many small initiatives such as the Christmas performance of theater company De Flits and the cheese fondue evenings at café-restaurant LEF. On the website you can find a complete overview of all activities. Pascalle is still looking for ideas to recycle the large Christmas tree, perhaps as an pine scent interior spray. You are welcome to submit your idea via the website.