I’m looking for tips on restaurants or locations for viewing the Night Parade starting in Noordwijkerhout on April 17th. Doesn’t look like you can buy grandstand seats unless you’re part of a tour from Amsterdam. I’m staying in Haarlem. Thanks for your help!
Posted by
San Diego, California
6704 posts
I tried that in 2024. The Flower parade ran late and didn't arrive in Haarlem until after 11:00pm, and it was freezing. I didn't see any Haarlem places that had great views of the parade, as the floats are so large. Also, ground floor seating would be blocked by the bystanders, so you would need a second floor for viewing. Perhaps others can chime in.
Having done that, I think the best option is viewing the floats in Haarlem that Sunday, where they are parked all day, obviously in daylight .
Have fun !
Posted by
Haarlem, Netherlands
179 posts
An overview of the grandstand locations (and to book them) can be found here; https://bloemencorso-bollenstreek.nl/vrienden-van/en/tribune-locaties/#tribunelocaties. No grandstands in Heemstede nor Haarlem.
They will be parked on the Gedempte Oude Gracht around 11ish so you can already see the floats in the evening. They will be freely accessible before the expo on Sunday.
Posted by
San Diego, California
6704 posts
I have to admit that even tho the floats are lit, their true bold colors aren't appreciated at night.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you for the info on the Saturday parade. We plan to go to that too.
I’m interested in seeing the Night Parade on the Friday before the Flower Parade. The Night Parade is in & around Noordwijkerhout. Grandstand is not available. Wondering what area of the route is good view & access.
Posted by
Haarlem, Netherlands
179 posts
You may have already found the route of the parade in Noordwijkerhout. If not, you can find it here: https://bloemencorso-bollenstreek.nl/en/programma/lichtjescorso/. It is an one hour parade through the streets of the village so don’t think it makes a big difference where you see it.