Dordt in Steam is about to begin again. The first post on social media with this announcement was viewed no less than 50,000 times. On May 20, 21 and 22, the largest free steam event in continental Europe will take place for the nineteenth time. From the first to the last steam whistle, it will be a party for young and old. Erik Zindel, secretary and shore activities coordinator, is looking forward to it.
It is unique that such a major steam spectacle takes place right in the heart of the city.
Spectacular start with Fleet Scrutiny
The official opening is on Friday evening at 8 p.m. with the Fleet Parade. But even before the start of this spectacular parade, the city is buzzing, says the enthusiastic board member. "Machines arrive from all over Europe. Even before the steam whistle concert, you can hear whistling all over town as a prelude to a great weekend. At the Vlootschouw all the steamships pass by, but the ships of shipping companies from the region also sail along. They too feel a great commitment to the event." The Vlootschouw can be easily followed from the Groothoofd, the Merwekade and from the banks of Zwijndrecht and Papendrecht.
Back in time onthe Crumb Quay
On Saturday and Sunday, the beautiful historic harbor area goes back in time. The Wolwevershaven, the place where it was once a coming and going of steam tugboats, transforms into the Kruimeltjeskade. Children can ride along on miniature steam trains. With the many steam engines, steamships, nets, barrels, steam tools and extras, you will imagine yourself in 1850. Terraces, merry-go-rounds and music create a bustling atmosphere.
Modelers shine duringmodel show
Cranes, a miniature fairground, models of cars, trains and ships, dollhouses, lego works of art, landscapes and much more. At the model show on the Staart (Kerkeplaat) in the huge hall of Stadsbeheer, your eyes will feast. Model makers from all over Europe descend here with their magnificent often moving and sound and light giving models.
Steam tour Dordt
The Stoomrondje Dordt is a day ticket that takes visitors back in time. The steam train runs from Central Station to Baanhoekweg station. Via the veteran bus one arrives at the model show. The steamboat then sails downtown. Finally, a vintage bus drives back to the station. The round trip is also possible in reverse. "Definitely do it," Erik Zindel recommends. "The Stoomrondje has everything: steam on rail, water ánd land, and you get everywhere. Detail for the real enthusiasts: the train even goes a bit on the track without overhead wires." A day ticket costs €18 for an adult, €14 for children aged 4 to 13. Tickets are also available for single rides.
Shanty festival on five stages
On five downtown stages, shanty choirs will perform on Saturday and Sunday. Atmospheric and cozy with the highlight being the joint closing at the end of the afternoon. On the Otto Dicke Square, all the choirs together form a large shanty choir and the audience can count on a grand and dazzling performance.
Unique event, and still looking for volunteers!
"The most special thing about Dordt in Steam is that everyone enjoys it. Over 250,000 visitors attract the event on average. That's a lot of people. Yet a sense of calm prevails, even when it is pleasantly busy. Young families, the elderly, Dordrians, visitors from outside the city, sometimes even from abroad, everyone comes and everyone enjoys themselves. Over 200 volunteers are also active at Dordt in Steam. This ranges from volunteers at the Rescue Brigade, to the extras and the board members themselves. Additional enthusiasts are still welcome. Would you also like to contribute to this spectacular steam festival? Then send an email to secretariaat@dordtinstoom.nl. In short: it will be a top three-day spectacle as always!
Dordt in Steam | May 20 to 22 | historic port area.
