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.
Open Blitz Chess Championship on 29 December
Chess Club Wassenaar will host the annual Open Blitz Chess Championship of Wassenaar on Monday, 29 December at Deijlerhuis (Hofcampweg 3).
The tournament starts at 19:00, making it accessible for younger players as well. Both club players and home players are welcome, and participation is free of charge.
The winner will receive the title Open Blitz Chess Champion of Wassenaar, along with a trophy and prizes. There are also prizes for players with lower ratings.
Registration is possible via info@schaakclub-wassenaar.nl
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Purple Friday Highlights Inclusion and Equality
Wassenaar marked Purple Friday, a national day promoting equality and acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth.
Alderman Ronald Zoutendijk wore a purple tie, and Raadhuis De Paauw was lit in purple to underline the message.
Purple Friday began in 2010 as a student-led initiative and focuses on creating safe environments for young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity.
“Equality is not just for one day,” said Zoutendijk. “Young people should feel safe and accepted every day.”
‘You Stay Bob!’ Campaign Promotes Alcohol-Free Driving
With the holiday season underway, Wassenaar has joined the national BOB campaign encouraging alcohol-free driving.
Statistics show that one in five traffic fatalities is linked to alcohol use. Driving under the influence — even on a bicycle or scooter — is a criminal offence with serious penalties.
Alderman Wim Koetsier urged residents to plan ahead:
“Enjoy the holidays, but finish the year safely. Stay sober or arrange a designated driver before you leave.”
€1 Shop Initiative Offers Opportunity for New Entrepreneurs
The municipality of Wassenaar has launched a creative initiative to prevent shop vacancy: the €1 Shop Action.
One entrepreneur will have the chance to rent the retail space at Langstraat 61 for one year for just one euro.
The campaign, launched on 17 December, aims to attract innovative and complementary retail concepts that fit Wassenaar’s village character. Applications are open until 14 February.
The initiative is a collaboration between the municipality, Centre Management Wassenaar, the property owner, EB Results and the MRDH.
Wassenaar Moves Almost Entirely to 30 km/h
After an intense and lengthy debate, the municipal council has approved a new traffic plan making 30 km/h the standard speed limit on nearly all roads within the built-up area, effective 27 February 2026.
Only five main roads will retain a 50 km/h limit. The decision follows advice from a citizen council, although it goes against recommendations from traffic experts and emergency services.
To safeguard accessibility, the council required biannual monitoring of emergency response times for police, fire and ambulance services.
Five Arrests After Burglary in Wassenaar South
Police arrested five suspects following a reported burglary in a villa in Wassenaar South on Sunday 14 December.
Burglary tools were found in a vehicle stopped by police shortly after the incident. All suspects have been remanded in custody while the investigation continues.
Residents are reminded to take preventive measures, especially during the holiday period, such as proper lighting, locking doors and windows, and informing neighbours when away.
Mark Slats and Team KiwiFondue Climb to Second Place
Wassenaar resident Mark Slats and his ocean rowing team KiwiFondue are currently second in the standings of the World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic, after covering more than 500 nautical miles — around 20% of the race.
Slats reports strong teamwork and growing routines aboard the boat.
Alongside the sporting challenge, the team is rowing to raise funds for the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology.
The race can be followed live via the official World’s Toughest Row tracker.
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