Kermis Volendam 2026: Dates and Opening Hours
| Day | Date | Ride opening hours |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | 4 September 2026 | 14:00 - 02:00 |
| Saturday | 5 September 2026 | 14:00 - 02:00 (12:00-14:00 low-sensory) |
| Sunday | 6 September 2026 | 14:00 - 02:00 (12:00-14:00 low-sensory) |
| Monday | 7 September 2026 | 12:00 - 22:00, market on the Edammerweg from the morning |
During the low-sensory hours on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, ride lights and music were switched off so young children and people sensitive to noise could enjoy the fair in peace.
Where the Fair Was
Rides and stalls were spread through the old village centre: along the Zeestraat, on the Europaplein and up to the C.J. Conijnstraat. The Kermis Festival was held on Slobbeland, and on Monday there was a market on the Edammerweg. In the evening the party moved to the cafés on and around the Dijk. On the final day many groups wore their kermispak - matching home-made group costumes - and the Kermispak van het Jaar (costume of the year) was chosen.
When Is the Kermis? The Fixed Pattern
The Volendam kermis always starts on the first Friday of September and lasts four days, through Monday.
| Year | Kermis Volendam |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Fri 5 - Mon 8 September |
| 2026 | Fri 4 - Mon 7 September |
| 2027 | Fri 3 - Mon 6 September (expected) - details |
| 2028 | Fri 1 - Mon 4 September (expected) |
A Fair With a Long History
Volendam already had its own kermis in the second half of the 18th century: letters between the Edam city government and West Friesland show the village had one by 1782. The tents stood on the Dijk back then, and the inns of Jan Kester and Jaap Schilder were the main gathering places. For a while Volendam held three kermis fairs a year, until this was reduced to one in 1879. Nobody knows exactly when the tradition of dressing up on the last day began.
In the cafés you will often hear palingsound, the local pop music whose story is told at the Palingsound Museum.
Tips for Your Next Kermis
- Accommodation: book early - the harbour hotels fill first. See hotels in Volendam and Roompot Marinapark, or stay in Edam.
- Transport: centre streets are closed; take the bus from Amsterdam (bus 316) or park on the edge of the village.
- With children: come during the day, or in the low-sensory hours on Saturday and Sunday.
- Want a quiet visit? Avoid kermis weekend - see the best time to visit Volendam.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Volendam kermis in 2026?
From Friday 4 to Monday 7 September 2026.
What were the opening hours of the 2026 kermis?
Friday to Sunday 14:00-02:00, Monday 12:00-22:00. On Saturday and Sunday the fair was low-sensory between 12:00 and 14:00.
When is the next kermis in Volendam?
Expected from Friday 3 to Monday 6 September 2027. See Kermis Volendam 2027.
How many days does the Volendam kermis last?
Four days, Friday to Monday.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, the fair is free to enter. You pay per ride and for food and drinks.