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
Pauw Wow Show attracts record participation
The Wassenaar Cultural Prize Foundation has received an impressive 50 entries for the Pauw Wow Show 2026, including five group submissions.
This year’s theme, Step into the Time Machine, inspired children aged 6 to 12 to explore both the past and the future through art. Many entries focus on nature, sustainability and local landmarks such as the historic windmill.
All artworks will be exhibited at Galerie in de Molen from 1 to 7 June, where visitors can also vote for the Public Choice Award.
Free surfing afternoon for young carers
On 3 June, SMOW Wassenaar will organise a free surfing and beach activity afternoon for young carers aged 10 to 23.
The event is intended for young people who help care for a family member or someone close to them. Participants can enjoy surfing lessons, beach games and a shared meal afterwards.
The initiative forms part of the national Week of the Young Carer and aims to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for young people with additional responsibilities at home.
Residents invited to share views on village centre
The Association of Friends of Wassenaar is asking residents to complete a survey about the village centre.
The questionnaire focuses on shopping, hospitality, parking and the overall atmosphere in the centre. The results will help provide insight into what residents value most and how the centre can continue to develop.
The findings will be presented during a public meeting at De Warenar on 3 June.
New ballroom dance initiative planned
A new six-week social ballroom dance course is being planned for September in De Warenar.
The initiative comes from experienced dancer Zuzana Bubalová, who hopes to create more opportunities for social dancing in Wassenaar. The course will welcome participants with some ballroom experience and will be offered in a mix of Dutch, English and the universal language of dance.
Organisers are currently gauging interest before launching the pilot programme.
New coalition presents plans for 2026–2030
VVD, D66 and Lokaal Wassenaar have presented their coalition agreement for the coming four years under the title Building Wassenaar Together.
The coalition’s priorities include the construction of 1,000 additional homes, faster permit procedures, stronger citizen participation and careful financial management. The parties also aim to support local businesses, invest in sports facilities and continue improving public services.
A new municipal executive is expected to be installed on 2 June.
Future asylum policy discussed
One of the coalition’s new policy priorities concerns asylum reception.
The coalition intends to move towards a smaller reception centre after the current agreements expire in 2028. At the same time, it wants to maintain a focus on accommodating families and continue meeting national obligations.
Currently, Wassenaar hosts substantially more asylum seekers than required under national legislation.
Ars et Studium presents end-of-season exhibition
Local arts society Ars et Studium will conclude its spring season with its annual exhibition of members’ work.
The exhibition features paintings, watercolours, ceramics, sculptures and other artworks created during the past six months. It will be open from 4 to 7 June at the Van Heeckerenhuis.
Admission is free and visitors are welcome to meet local artists and explore a wide range of creative work.
Stay Connected with Wassenaarders.nl
Want more local stories, interviews and video reports?
- ▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/wassenaarders
Follow us, subscribe, and stay informed about everything happening in Wassenaar!
