Get ready to grab something orange and head to Foxton. The much-loved Big Dutch Day Out is back on Saturday 18 April 2026 – with a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture, community and fun for all ages.
Held at Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park from 8.30am to 3pm, the free family event will kick off New Zealand Dutch Week and bring Foxton to life with colour, music, games, food and plenty of Dutch flair.
Get ready to grab something orange and head to Foxton. The much-loved Big Dutch Day Out is back on Saturday 18 April 2026 – with a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture, community and fun for all ages.
One of the day’s most popular highlights is the famous Orange Bike Ride, with registrations opening at 8.30am and the ride getting underway at 9am. People are encouraged to dress themselves, and their bikes, in orange and join the fun as they roll through town in a sea of colour.
Visitors can also enjoy traditional Dutch games, dress up in Dutch costume, soak up the lively sounds of Amsterdam street music, and tuck into Dutch favourites like croquettes and fries. A visit to the iconic De Molen Windmill and Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre is also a must, with plenty of opportunities to discover the stories of Dutch migrants who made Aotearoa New Zealand their home.
Foxton Windmill Trust Chair Judy Sanson says Big Dutch Day Out is a celebration of heritage, community and connection.
“While De Molen is a symbol of Dutch heritage, it is also a symbol of how community and cultures came together to build an iconic working heritage building right here in Foxton.
“It brings tens of thousands of visitors to town each year and creates a positive impact for our local business and tourism community, while also sharing Dutch culture and history with visitors from near and far.
“There is a real sense that this event is gezellig. It is a Dutch word that describes a warm, cosy, friendly atmosphere where people feel welcome, enjoy being together and have fun. It is about connection, comfort and sharing a good time, and that is exactly what Big Dutch Day Out is all about.
“Any profit from Big Dutch Day Out will go towards the maintenance fund for the blades on De Molen. With the salt-laden winds here in Foxton, maintenance is needed from time to time to help make sure the windmill continues to operate well into the future.”
Mayor Bernie Wanden says Big Dutch Day Out is one of those special events that has something for everyone.
“From the famous Orange Bike Ride to the music, food and family fun, it is a fantastic way to experience Foxton’s unique Dutch heritage and enjoy a great day out together.”
“Events like this help bring communities together, celebrate what makes places like Foxton Special and create the kind of connection and vibrancy that supports community wellbeing.”
“If you have never been before, this is the year to get along to Foxton, wear orange and be part of the fun.”
This year’s event will also include the launch of New Zealand Dutch Week, with Netherlands Ambassador Ard van der Vorst attending.
Event details
Date: Saturday 18 April 2026
Time: 8.30am to 3pm
Where: Te Awahou Riverside Cultural Park, Foxton
Entry: Free
For more information, visit teawahou.com/Whats-On
