Reflection on Illumination Week 2024

Light Cruise with Koninklijke Spido BV.
A particular success was the collaboration with Koninklijke Spido BV. Over 300 guests enjoyed a new arrangement: The Light Cruise. On board the James Cook, guests savored a delightful dinner while cruising from Rotterdam to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kinderdijk. Upon arrival, they admired the illuminated windmills from our tour boats. The evening was then concluded with a delicious dessert during the return trip to Rotterdam.

Photography Workshop with Marijn Heuts
The annual photography workshop led by top photographer Marijn Heuts once again ensured that participants went home with a well-stocked portfolio. Despite the rainy Tuesday, we saw some stunning photos!

Kayak Tours and SUP Evening
On Wednesday and Thursday, Kanocentrum Waterwaard provided beautiful kayak tours for the second time. Although the tours sold out quickly, an extra group was able to enjoy the serene World Heritage site from the water thanks to the flexibility of Wilma. Additionally, Samen Suppen organized a SUP evening on Thursday, with over 200 paddlers making their way from Alblasserdam to Kinderdijk. It was a spectacular sight on the water and we look forward to welcoming them again next year.

Tour Boat with snacks and drinks with Tourist Info Kinderdijk
A new highlight was the “Tour Boat with snacks and drinks”, a collaboration with Tourist Info Kinderdijk, which offered visitors an enhanced experience: socializing, music, and the illuminated windmills. This one-hour cruise was a great success and received enthusiastic feedback!

Molen Market
On Friday, the Molen Market in the village of Kinderdijk was bustling with both local residents and tourists. Many visitors also came to see the illuminated windmills, as evidenced by the long lines at our new food stalls on the terrace at the Visitor Center. The churros, illuminated cotton candy, fries, and snacks flew off the counter. The food stalls were open all week, as were the successful boat tours we offered each evening. It was an enchanting experience, with the sparkle of the windmills beautifully reflected on the water.

Giveaway ‘Slapen in de molen’

During Illumination Week, everyone had the chance to participate in our giveaway ‘Slapen in de molen’. We are pleased to announce the winner: Diana Bolder! She has won an overnight stay for two in the unique Delft Blue windmill room at “Slapen in de molen” in Arkel, worth €185. Congratulations, Diana!

Diana will have the unique opportunity to stay in one of the most iconic landmarks of the Alblasserwaard: the Jan van Arkel, a beautiful grain mill that has been operating since 1852 in the small village of Arkel. The mill offers a stunning view over the Merwede Canal, where you can watch the boats pass by. The mill’s cozy hotel rooms are located beneath the mill’s gallery, each uniquely decorated with attention to detail.

Although the mill is not part of Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage, it is only a 30-minute drive from the world-famous windmills of Kinderdijk. It’s a perfect combination of tranquility, history, and charm.

Have you always wanted to stay in a windmill? “Slapen in de molen” offers a unique experience you shouldn’t miss. Visit Arkel, explore its rich history, and enjoy an unforgettable stay in the Jan van Arkel mill.

Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has once again contributed to the success of Illumination Week this year, with special thanks to the volunteers and staff!

We look forward to next year, when Illumination Week will take place from September 1 to 6, 2025, and we hope for wonderful (new) activities and fruitful collaborations.