This past May 10

Looking Back: National Windmill Day & Craftsmen's Day

What a day it was! Exactly one week ago, on Saturday 10 May 2025, Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage was entirely dedicated to National Windmill Day and a Craftsmen's Day. Visitors from both the Netherlands and abroad came to our heritage site to enjoy turning windmills, living history, and traditional craft demonstrations.

The day offered a unique opportunity to see the Kinderdijk mills in full motion during the “Molen Maaldag” (Milling Day). A spectacular sight that will stay with many visitors for a long time!

 

Traditional Crafts

Across the site, visitors could witness traditional crafts up close. The blacksmith demonstrated his skills at the Wisboom Pumping Station, fresh bread was baked in a wood-fired oven near the Nederwaard Museum Mill, and the clog maker showed his craftsmanship at the Blokweer Museum Mill. Children also had a blast—with face painting, traditional Dutch games, and pancakes!

The Visitor Center was the musical heart of the day, with live performances by a Medieval band. Meanwhile, traditional Dutch cheese was served by hosts in regional costume. The atmosphere was cheerful and festive—just as National Windmill Day and our Craftsmen’s Day should be.

Smid in het Wisboomgemaal die het vuur aanwakkert.

The blacksmith lit the fire to begin forging that day

Ambachtendag in Kinderdijk - twee zeilmakers

Two sailmakers demonstrated their craft

Paling roken

For the enthusiasts, smoked eel was available at the mill yard of the Nederwaard Museum Mill

Een kind dat op het molenerf in Kinderdijk geschminkt wordt met op de achtergrond een molen.

Face painting was a hit with our youngest visitors

Molenklompjes in Kinderdijk

At the Blokweer Museum Mill, a clog maker showcased his traditional skills

Will you join us next time?

We look back on a wonderful day full of windmills, craftsmanship, and history. A big thank you to all visitors, volunteers, and artisans who made this day unforgettable!

Stay up to date with our events via our calendar. Who knows—we might see you at the next edition of Craftsmen’s Day in Kinderdijk on Saturday 13 September. That day, we’ll be combining it with Open Monuments Day!

The author

Lisanne Vermaas

Lisanne Vermaas

Allround Marketeer

marketing@molenskinderdijk.nl