Welcome to this week’s edition of Wassenaar Weekly. Your source for local stories, events, and community news in English, brought to you by Wassenaarders.nl.
Beginner’s Running Course Ends with Success
After seven weeks of training, participants in the Beginner’s Running Course have achieved their goal: running 25 minutes without stopping!
The course, organised by Loopgroep De Wassenaarse Slag in cooperation with Fit in Wassenaar, helped residents of all fitness levels discover the joy of running.
Despite sore muscles and rainy days, all agreed it was worth the effort.
Those interested in joining the next edition can find more info at loopgroep-de-wassenaarse-slag.nl.
Upcoming Theatre Performance: “This Is Not the End”
On Friday, 20 March 2026, the powerful and taboo-breaking theatre performance “Dit is niet het einde” (“This Is Not the End”) will premiere at Theater Warenar.
The play tells the real stories of young women who struggled with depression during adolescence — and their journey toward recovery.
Created by Wassenaar residents Marlies and Tess van der Hout, the performance aims to open dialogue about mental health and hope.
“We want to show that there are stories with a new perspective — that healing is possible when people dare to talk and listen,” says Marlies.
The event also marks the launch of a companion book, which every visitor will receive.
Tickets and details: marliesvanderhout.nl/theatervoorstelling
Mark Slats and Team Ready for the Atlantic Rowing Challenge
Wassenaar’s own ocean adventurer Mark Slats and his team Kiwi Fondue (Atlantic) have arrived at La Gomera, Canary Islands, for the start of the World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic.
The race, which begins 12 December, covers more than 5,000 kilometres to Antigua.
Slats and his teammates are rowing to raise funds for the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, aiming to reach €100,000.
“We’re fired up and ready. Thank you to everyone who’s supported us so far,” Slats shared on Facebook.
Follow the race at worldstoughestrow.com.
Remembering Wassenaar Zoo, 40 Years On
On 1 December 1985, Wassenaar Zoo closed its gates for the last time — ending nearly 50 years as a beloved part of village life. Founded in 1937 by Piet Louwman, the zoo was known for its lush, park-like setting and tropical Paradise Hall.
Though financial challenges forced its closure, memories of the zoo — and its residents — live on. One remarkable story tells of Spinnie, a spider monkey who lived on the old zoo grounds until around 2019, reaching 60 years old.
Even decades later, Wassenaar Zoo remains an important part of the village’s cultural history.
You can watch video memories via the Wassenaarders.nl YouTube playlist:
Police Launch “Dark Days” Burglary Awareness Campaign
Wassenaar Police and municipal officers conducted checks this week as part of the annual “Dark Days” campaign, warning residents about burglary risks during winter.
Homes and sheds left unlocked received a blue footprint card as a reminder that entry would have been easy.
Police advise keeping doors and windows locked, using timers for lights, securing gardens, and keeping valuables out of sight.
In emergencies, call 112; for non-urgent reports, dial 0900-8844.
The Wassenaar Christmas House Opens 10 December
From Wednesday, 10 December, the former Intertoys building at Langstraat 123 will transform into the Wassenaar Christmas House — a festive space for children and families.
Visitors can enjoy Christmas movies, colouring corners, and games in a warm holiday atmosphere.
Opening hours:
- Wed 10, Sat 13, Wed 17, Sat 20 December — 12:00–16:00
The Christmas House offers a cheerful break for shoppers and adds extra sparkle to Wassenaar’s renewed town centre.
