Successful Christmas project in Dinxperwick

"De kerst ontKIEMT", in German "Weihnachten keimt auf" took place with a large nativity scene exhibition in the premises of the former Schaersvoorde secondary school in Dinxperlo. Numerous Dutch and German participants organised the event.

With a festive atmosphere, a varied programme and a strong signal for cross-border cooperation, the "Christmas germinates" event on Sunday 14 December 2025 delighted numerous visitors in the multifunctional building De Kiem at Europastraat 6 in Dinxperlo.

The venue was transformed into a lively Christmas setting where music, singing, creativity and encounters took centre stage. The event impressively emphasised the close ties between Dinxperlo and Suderwick, which together as "Dinxperwick" form a vibrant, cross-border community.

In their welcoming speeches, both Mayor Christian Mangen from Bocholt and Mayor Anton Stapelkamp from Aalten expressly recognised the good and established cooperation across the national border. They emphasised that projects such as this one show how natural and enriching neighbourly relations and joint commitment can be - especially in challenging times.

The central nativity scene exhibition was a particular attraction. Instead of the traditional outdoor nativity scene tour of previous years, the new concept presented all the nativity scenes in one place. In the entrance area of "De Kiem", guests were able to admire an impressive collection of handmade classical and modern nativity scenes from all over the world. The exhibition venue thus developed into a meeting place for exchange and reflection.

Diverse supporting programme

Many participating groups provided musical Christmas sounds. The programme was complemented by creative workshops, a Christmas scavenger hunt and hands-on activities for young and old. There was also plenty of culinary variety on offer: From mulled wine and hot chocolate to international specialities, the offerings reflected the cultural diversity of the region.

Funding

The project was made possible by the Germany-Nederland Interreg programme and its programme partners and co-financed by the European Union (EU). Other sponsors include the municipality of Aalten, the city of Bocholt and other institutions, companies and associations.