HOLLAND FESTIVAL - history

The first Holland Festival was held in February 1975. It was then known as “Hollands Glorie”.  The Associated Netherlands Societies in Victoria planned the event as a fund raiser to promote and support the establishment of an Aged Care policy for the Dutch Community.  Despite extreme hot conditions, the event was a resounding success.  The 1976 event was held in the Greaves Reserve in Dandenong, a venue that provided two large exhibition buildings.

To give the project an International flavour, the Association also invited artists, dance groups and musicians from other Ethnic groups to participate. The typical “Dutch gezelligheid” was created with lots of people enjoying each others company, food and drinks, music and dancing. “Hollandse Kermis” in Australia was born. The name “Holland Festival” was given, and it soon became one of the largest cultural festivals in Victoria.

In 1994 the Festival was moved to Sandown Racecourse, a larger venue that is entirely under roof.  The success of the Holland Festival over many years is due to dedicated volunteers, including those from the Associated Clubs in Victoria, working tirelessly for the well being of the Dutch Community.

Traditional Dutch games are played and are available to entertain young and old.  There is also an exhibition by  “Dutch Australian Heritage Centre”.

The Holland Festival is a marvellous display of Dutch traditions which enrich Australia’s cultural treasure. 

Ype de Bruin,  OAM,RON.                    download full pdf version
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