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Colors of Haarlem - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle
Harlem is often called “Bloemenstad”, which can be literally translated as “Flower CIty”. It is considered to be the main tulip-growing center. Every year Harlem is visited by professional flower growers from all over the world. In spring Harlem hosts a grand flower festival that attracts hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic travelers. This is a beautiful and eventful holiday, the main action of which is the Flower Parade.
Haarlem will please tourists and shoppers with a variety of specialized shops and malls. Tea drinkers and lovers of chocolate will be interested in coming by De Kale Jonker shop, which has … 
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Haarlem is a city located in the Netherlands, on the west of the country 20 kilometers away from Amsterdam. This is the capital of Northern Holland. The population of Haarlem estimates 149 … Open
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The opening of such an unusual library was yet another confirmation that Harlem is a very friendly and hospitable city. A few centuries ago, a huge number of wanderers and homeless people were seeking shelter in local almshouses. 19 of them have survived to the present day, but today they are only historical landmarks. The almshouses were built on donations from local residents right in the courtyards of residential buildings.
In miniature Harlem, there are many interesting sights and cultural sites, some of which are sure to interest the youngest travelers. Vacationers with children will be interested to visit … Open
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Everybody knows about how the Dutch respect the monarchy and, in particular, the royal family. Harlem is definitely not an exception in this case, and therefore such a festival as Konningsdag is never ignored by locals. It is traditionally held on April 27. Without exaggeration, it is the largest holiday in the Country of Tulips. At this time, it is customary to dress in orange colors and bring things of the same color with you - therefore this holiday can safely be called “orange”. Every year on this day, the royal family visits two Dutch cities - and all so that each city can be proud of the fact that once it was visited by monarchs. Apart from the “orange parade”, a gastronomic program is also available to visitors, including traditional herring, of course.
Most of the attractive restaurants, pastry shops, and cafes are located near Grote Markt, in the heart of the historic district of Harlem. One of the most noteworthy gastronomic … Open
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One more musical event is Haarlem Jazz & More, which is dedicated to jazz and related music, as you might guess from the name. It takes place on Grote Markt. The time of the festival is mid-February. The good news for those who've decided to attend the festival is that they do not have to pay to enter. Talented and famous headliners perform for them, so the festival is attended by many fans of high-quality music, which has already become a kind of classic. It is also worth noting the festival's special atmosphere - it is soulful and very friendly, which will certainly please all guests.
In Harlem, there is a religious landmark known far beyond the country's borders - the Cathedral of Saint Bavo. The building distinguished by its unique architectural style was quite a … Open
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Just before Christmas - the culmination of Harlem's festival year - there is a very colorful event known as "Sinterklaas' arriving on the River Spaarne". Traditionally, Sinterklaas and his assistants sail on their ship, thus delighting kids waiting for the “hero of the occasion” on the embankment. Fun and laughter are guaranteed. At this time, children sing songs in order to call Sinterklaas. Well, next week, everyone is waiting for Christmas, during which Harlem turns into a fairy tale. One can hardly find another place that would resemble a Christmas village so much. 
This guide to traditions and festivals in Haarlem is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.
City tours, excursions and tickets in Haarlem and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all churches
Cathedrals and basilicas near Haarlem
♥ Sint-Josephkerk, Haarlem, 1.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Grote of Sint-Bavokerk, Haarlem, 1.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Kathedrale Basiliek van Sint-Bavo, Haarlem, 2.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Basiliek van de H. Nicolaas, Ijsselstein, 17.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Basiliek van de H. Johannes de Doper, Laren, 41.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Kathedrale Sint Maarten, Utrecht, 44.4 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Sint Catharinakathedraal, Utrecht, 44.8 km from the center. On the map
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Map of all castles
Survived castles around Haarlem
♥ Castle 'Huis ter Kleef' , 1.7 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Slot Heemstede' , 3.2 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Brederode Castle' , 6.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Huys Dever' , 14.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Slot Teylingen' , 17.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Ilpenstein Castle' , 23.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Burcht van Leiden' , 25.5 km from the center. On the map
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Colors of Haarlem in photos
Search for popular touristic sites on Haarlem map
Cityguide on traditions, mentality and lifestyle of people in Haarlem. Learn the best periods to visit Haarlem to discover its soul - authentic festivals, events and celebrations. We will also reveal the interesting habits, attitude towards the world and to tourists in Haarlem.
