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
New Municipal Council Faces Tough Choices
The newly elected municipal council was officially installed on 1 April, marking the start of a new four-year term.
According to the municipal handover report, the main challenge ahead is not a lack of ambition, but limited capacity and financial room. Around 80% of municipal work consists of ongoing and legally required tasks, leaving little space for new initiatives.
With rising pressure from ageing, housing shortages and increasing administrative demands, the message is clear: governing will require difficult choices and clear priorities.
New Council Installed and Coalition Talks Begin
A total of 21 councillors have been sworn in at Raadhuis De Paauw. The VVD, now the largest party, has appointed an external explorer (verkenner) to start coalition discussions.
The council will temporarily relocate to the police station on Hofcampweg during the upcoming renovation of the town hall.
The next phase focuses on forming a governing coalition, with new aldermen expected to be appointed before the summer.
New Kikker8baan Passes First Test with Flying Colours
The new Kikker8baan at Duinrell has successfully completed its first major test day, with 500 selected visitors taking part.
Children in particular responded enthusiastically, praising the ride as “longer and more fun” than its predecessor. The redesigned family roller coaster combines the classic figure-eight layout with modern features.
The official opening took place on 3 April, coinciding with the start of Duinrell’s new season.
Busy April Programme at Theater Warenar
Theater Warenar presents a varied programme this April, including musicals, comedy, theatre and live music.
Highlights include:
- Anastasia (family musical) – 3 & 4 April
- Glimmen (comedy) – 10 & 11 April
- Dis Order (psychodrama) – 15 April
- Performances by De Règâhs and cabaret artist Teun van den Elzen
Several shows are already sold out, reflecting strong local interest in cultural events.
Children Invited to Join Wassenaar Art Competition
The Wassenaar Cultural Prize Foundation has launched the Pauw Wow Show 2026, a creative competition for children aged 6 to 12.
This year’s theme is “Step into the Time Machine”, inviting young participants to explore past or future worlds through art.
Entries can be submitted until 16 May, with an exhibition in early June and a festive award ceremony on 20 June.
400 Years of Jan Steen Celebrated Nearby
The nearby cities of Leiden and Warmond are celebrating 400 years of painter Jan Steen with exhibitions, walking routes and public events.
The main exhibition, “At Home with Jan Steen”, opens at Museum De Lakenhal on 2 April, featuring works from major Dutch collections.
The anniversary year also includes interactive experiences and cultural routes bringing the artist’s life and work to a wider audience.
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