Things to Do in Utrecht

There’s no shortage of things to do in Utrecht, whether it’s regular events or special events. Explore Utrecht posts a roundup of weekend events every week and I’ve listed here a few of the more regular events that happen weekly, monthly, or seasonally. I also sometimes list upcoming events on my Facebook page, so you may want to check that out, as well. If you have an upcoming event that you’d like to spread the word about, feel free to send me an email and I’ll try to post about it here, on Twitter, and on Facebook.

For a few of my favorite places to visit in Utrecht, check out my list of 18 Things to See, Do, Taste, and Experience in Utrecht map.

I also have a follow-up post of Eight More Things to Do in Utrecht.

The following is just a sampling of some of the regular events around town.

EVERY FRIDAY
During the summer months, the Utrecht Skate Parade sets out at 20:00 every Friday from Lucasbolwerk/Stadsschouwburg (weather permitting). Join hundreds of other skaters for a two-hour skate through Utrecht. This free event is a great way to meet other fellow skate enthusiasts and afterward you can relax and enjoy a drink at one of the four cafés and bars at the end of the route. There’s music to keep you going and varying routes to keep you entertained.

EVERY SATURDAY
Utrecht Free Tours. Every Saturday at noon, starting at the Domtoren, you can take a free tour (in English!) around the city, guided by locals who share the history of this amazing city. You don’t just get the usual tour book information, you get fun and fascinating tid bits, sort of like this blog!

Trajectum Lumen light art installations around the city. The lights are free for everyone to see — 24/7/365 — but if you want a special guided tour, those are available for €10 through the VVV Utrecht tourist office (Domplein 9). Purchase tickets in advance at the tourist office or download the app and take your own self-guided tour. The official tours begin at 20:30 every Saturday night. http://www.trajectumlumen.nl

Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market): Janskerkhof, 7:00 to 17:00. Here you’ll find a wide variety of cut and potted plants. As the weather improves, so does the selection!

Lapjesmarkt (Fabric Market): Breedstraat, 8:00 to 13:00. This fabric/textile market is the oldest in the Netherlands, going on 400 years. The picturesque street is lined with stalls selling all sorts of fabrics, ribbons, zippers, and other sewing bits and bobs.

Vredenburg Market: There’s a large outdoor market held in the square in front of Hoog Catharijne every Saturday. Lots of food, including a stall that often sells more exotic vegetables, such as okra, plenty of cheese stalls, nut stalls, fish stalls, as well as clothing and household items. Definitely worth a browse.

LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Paushuize Tour. Take a tour of the Paushuize, a house in the center of Utrecht built by the only Dutch pope. The tour is informative, fascinating, and fun, and a great way to spend an hour or so on a Sunday afternoon.