German-Dutch Border Talks: A visit to the float builder for the flower parade in Lichtenvoorde

Interested members of the public are invited to a guided tour on 2 September 2026 in the run-up to the flower parade in Lichtenvoorde. Over a drink, those attending will be able to find out from several float builders about the construction of the special floats for the flower parade. Registrations are now open; participation is free of charge.

"A visit to the float builders" - that is the invitation from the float builders, who have agreed to give the German and Dutch participants in the border talks an insight into the elaborate planning and construction of the floats for the "flower parade".  

Traditional flower parade

The flower parade in Lichtenvoorde is one of the best-known flower parades in the Netherlands. The event takes place annually in the Achterhoek region near the German border and has, over the decades, become an integral part of the region's cultural life. The next flower parade will take place on 13 September 2026.

The origins of the parade date back to the late 19th century. The event has been organised in its current form since 1929. The focus is on artistically designed floats, which are entirely decorated with dahlia blossoms. The floats are designed and built by local neighbourhoods and clubs. Preparations often begin many months before the actual parade and are carried out predominantly by volunteers.

The flower parade is part of Dutch parade culture, which was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. The event combines elements of craftsmanship, creativity and community spirit, and is attended each year by numerous visitors from the Netherlands, Germany and other European countries.

Registration and meeting point

Registrations are being accepted by VHS Bocholt online under course number BW11131, by email at vhs(at)bocholt(dot)de or by telephone on (02871) 953 1287. The meeting point for the event at 7.30 pm is the Corsoverein Hooiland, Lievelderweg 92 in Lichtenvoorde, the Netherlands.

About EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt

EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt is part of the Office of the Mayor and the Executive Board of the City of Bocholt and serves as the local point of contact for questions relating to the European Union. Its role is to provide local residents with information, advice, assistance and answers to questions about Europe. Furthermore, EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt aims to promote engagement with Europe and to provide information on current developments in European politics.