You will never see so many redheads in one place again! Redhead Days (Roodharigendag) is an annual celebration that draws tens of thousands of attendees to the heart of Tilburg, the Netherlands. This three-day festival, typically held in September, is a global gathering unlike any other, uniting redheads and enthusiasts from over 80 countries.
Activities
Central to the festival's allure is its eclectic lineup of activities, catering to a diverse range of interests and ages. Attendees can dive into the festivities at the kickoff party on Friday, August 23, with admission priced at €6. Tilburg's vibrant nightlife allows for connections with fellow redheads during the pub crawl on Saturday, August 24, with tickets available for €17,50 until May 31 and €20- thereafter. The rich tapestry of locally brewed craft beer at LOC Brewery offers four exquisite tasting glasses to tantalize taste buds, costing €15. A punch-needle workshop unleashes creativity with a delightful fusion of artistry for €10. Guests can also indulge in a culinary journey at the food trucks.
Some free activities include the Speedmeet, Photobooth, Shared BBQ, and the iconic group photo. Additionally, families can delight in whimsical fun at the Kids Area, where bouncy castles, face painting, and creative crafts await to enchant the young and young at heart, all at no cost.
Theme color
The designated theme color for this year's Redhead Days is "Green—a fresh and bright shade." The organizers kindly request participants to wear green tops or dresses for the grand group photoshoot scheduled for Sunday.
Campsite RED
At Campsite RED guests wake up to the lively atmosphere of hundreds of fellow redheads and enjoy a complimentary breakfast included with their campsite ticket. As the sun sets, the campfire becomes a focal point for storytelling and camaraderie, providing ample opportunities to forge new connections. Additionally, guests can unwind in one of the multiple hot tubs available on-site. Conveniently located just minutes away from the train station and within the festival grounds' central area, the campsite ensures easy access to all the festivities. Prices range from €27.50 for a one-night stay to €250.00 for a three-night stay with tent and air mattress rental.
Lodging and Traveling
Whether you opt for the immersive atmosphere of Campsite Red or choose from the city's diverse lodging options, including hotels, hostels, and B&Bs, you're guaranteed a memorable experience. As for travel, Tilburg is easily accessible by train, with the station just a short walk from the festival's heart. If flying in, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol offers convenient connections to Tilburg via a direct train route. And for eco-conscious travelers, consider train or ridesharing options for a greener journey.
History
Redhead Days began as a lucky accident in 2005 when Bart Rouwenhorst, the festival director, sought 15 red-haired models for an exhibition in Asten. However, an advertisement yielded 150 registrations, leading to a remarkable gathering that united redheads across the Netherlands. Encouraged by the response, Bart organized the first festival in Breda, attended by 500 redheads. Since then, the festival has grown exponentially, culminating in a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of redheads in 2011.
