Rijp Harvest Festival

Summer is drawing to a close, and at De Gerdeneer that means only one thing: it’s time to celebrate the harvest. From 26 September to 4 October 2026, the greenhouse in Venlo-Boekend will be the venue for Festival RIJP!. Look forward to nine days packed with local food, cider, art, heritage and music, set amidst the greenery.

What is Festival RIJP!?

RIJP! is De Gerdeneer’s harvest festival. You can wander through the greenhouse and orchard, discover local art and learn about traditional cider-making practices from countries including England, France and Spain. And, of course, there’s plenty to taste along the way.

During the festival, there will be an art walk in the greenhouse and the history of Boekend will come to life in the pop-up museum ‘De Schoolbel’. Fancy delving a little deeper into the world of cider? On Sunday 27 September, there will be a cider tasting where you can learn about different cider cultures and related drinks.

On the evening of Saturday 3 October, the celebrations will really get underway. You’ll start with a walk through the orchard, taste a cider apple and learn about the Wassail tradition. Afterwards, the Venlo-based band Beej de Roeje will play live in the greenhouse.

Sunday 4 October is also a lovely day to pop in. From 11.00 to 17.00, there’ll be live music, a barbecue and freshly made salsa from Maggies Farm. Have a taste, have a look round and celebrate the harvest together. That’s how it should be.

Practical info

The RIJP! Festival will take place from Saturday 26 September to Sunday 4 October 2026 at De Gerdeneer, Sitterskampweg 105 in Venlo-Boekend.

The art walk is free to visit during the specified festival times. The programme on Sunday 4 October from 11.00 to 17.00 is also free to attend.

The cider tasting on Sunday 27 September runs from 2.00 pm to 4.30 pm and costs €29 per person. There is space for a maximum of 25 participants, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.

For the RIJP! Party Night on Saturday 3 October, doors open at 6.30 pm and the programme starts at 7.00 pm. A ticket costs €10 and includes a glass of cider, finger food and a souvenir. Advance booking is required for this evening.

As the programme varies from day to day, be sure to check De Gerdeneer’s current programme before you set off. That way, you’ll know exactly what there is to see and taste on that particular day.