What is Castle Day?

Castle Day is held every year on Friday before Pentecost untill Whit Monday and takes place in the Netherlands. Known locally as Dag van het Kasteel, this day gives the public access to dozens of castles, estates, and country houses across the country. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Dutch cultural heritage in a hands-on and festive way.

The goal of Castle Day is to bring history to life. Visitors can experience historic buildings from the inside, meet historians and storytellers, and learn about the people who once lived behind those castle walls. Each year has its own theme, but the focus is always on opening doors;literally and figuratively.

History and Origin

Castle Day began as a collaboration between Dutch heritage organizations who wanted to raise awareness for the preservation of historical buildings. It started small, but quickly grew into a national tradition. Today, more than a hundred castles and estates take part, each with their own program.

Whit Monday was chosen because it’s a public holiday in the Netherlands and comes at the end of spring;a time when many estates are at their most beautiful. By connecting history to an accessible day off, the event reaches a wide audience, from families with young children to architecture enthusiasts.

Who participates in Castle Day?

• Castle owners and caretakers: Open their properties and share stories about the building’s history and restoration.
• Historians and researchers: Give talks, tours, or demonstrations about medieval life and heritage preservation.
• Reenactors and performers: Entertain guests with music, sword fighting, storytelling, or old crafts.
• Families and tourists: Explore the buildings, gardens, and hidden rooms that are usually closed to the public.
• Volunteers and organizers: Help run the day’s events, welcoming guests and guiding activities.

Slogans and Themes

Each year has a central theme, such as “Upstairs, Downstairs” or “Castles in Conflict.” Slogans reflect the open and imaginative nature of the day. Common phrases include “Step into the Past,” “Unlock the Stories,” and “History Behind the Walls.” These slogans encourage visitors to explore the lesser-known layers of Dutch history through personal experience.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors:

• Stone gray: Represents castle walls and the age of the buildings.
• Royal blue: Symbolizes nobility, elegance, and historical prestige.
• Emerald green: Evokes the gardens, forests, and surrounding landscapes of country estates.

Symbols:

• Castle towers: Represent strength, protection, and architectural heritage.
• Heraldic shields: Point to the noble families who once lived there.
• Drawbridges: Stand for access and discovery, fitting the spirit of Castle Day.

Patterns:

• Masonry lines: Suggest old stonework and craftsmanship.
• Crest designs: Reflect noble family emblems and medieval tradition.
• Window arches and gates: Indicate openness and entry into another time.

Most Used Hashtags

• #CastleDay
• #DagVanHetKasteel
• #ExploreCastles
• #CastleStories
• #LivingHistory

How do you celebrate Castle Day?

• Visit a participating castle: Take a tour, explore the rooms, and learn the history of the estate.
• Join a themed walk: Discover gardens, moats, and hidden spots through guided outdoor tours.
• Watch live demonstrations: See blacksmiths, bakers, or falconers in action, just like in medieval times.
• Take part in activities: Let children dress up as knights or take part in games and crafts.
• Share your visit online: Post pictures and facts using the official hashtags.

Why is Castle Day important?

Castle Day makes history visible and accessible. It brings attention to the importance of preserving buildings that carry centuries of stories, architecture, and cultural memory. Many castles are privately owned or not open year-round. This day gives the public rare access and builds appreciation for these places.

It also encourages education in a playful way. By connecting historical facts to real locations, the day makes the past feel real and personal. Events like Castle Day help build a sense of shared heritage and spark curiosity in future generations.