Background information: ValkenbosCultuurplein Group.
This working group was established in September 2023 at the initiative of residents living on and near Valkenbosplein. The working group is part of the SBOB (Social Neighborhood Organization), but its activities focus primarily on Valkenbosplein and the surrounding streets, and thus extend somewhat beyond the Bomenbuurt neighborhood.
The group’s specific objectives are:
- Improving the quality of life on and around Valkenbosplein;
- Visit the (social) history of the square;
- Facilitating and organizing cultural activities on and around the square, preferably for and by neighbors.
The square is unique. It is a complex intersection, where two districts (Segbroek and Scheveningen) and four neighborhoods (Bomenbuurt, Valkenboskwartier, Regentessenkwartier, and Duinoord) converge. The working group explores ways to connect residents from the surrounding streets (neighborhoods). Besides the annual neighborhood party “Christmas on Valkenbosplein,” weekly “Meet & Greet” gatherings are held on the square (Sunday mornings, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM). These gatherings facilitate a variety of simple activities and activities, such as music, small workshops, performances by residents and other interested parties, games (chess, checkers, shuffleboard, etc.), poetry readings, story readings (for children), and more.
Besides these socio-cultural activities, the working group also focuses on the daily operations and history of the square. In light of the municipal redevelopment of Bomenbuurt, a (re)design direction for the square itself is being considered.
Members of the group:
- Rob Blokboel (Chairman)
- Maarten Buijs (Secretary)
- Nancy Solleveld
- Akkie Akkerman
- Herman Cools
- Jan de Lange (on behalve of the SBOB)
Contact:
Rob Blokpoel
werkgroep@valkenboscultuurplein.nl
Activity’s:
- Every Sunday at 11:00 AM, Meet & Greet at Valkenbosplein, with an effort to offer a variety of activities each week.
- This year, we’re once again organizing Christmas at Valkenbosplein for neighbors and their families, featuring a choir by the Christmas tree and a program themed around “Dickens.” Naturally, there will be mulled wine, oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts), pea soup, Christmas loaf, hot chocolate, and more.
- Since September 24th, a team has been focusing on the interests of the businesses in and around the square.
- Ongoing research is being conducted into the history of the square and what happened there in the last century. This research will be developed into an exhibition/presentation, etc.
- We are working towards musical performances by people and organizations with ties to the square.
Meet & Greet, Every sunday morning from 11:00 on the Valkenbosplein.
Meet your neighbors every Sunday (from 11:00 AM) for an hour of coffee or other socializing. Weather permitting, we’ll meet outside at Valkenbosplein (at the standing tables); otherwise, we’ll find a spot inside.
Feel free to drop by and meet each other, meet new neighbors, and exchange stories.
No need to register in advance, and refreshments are at your own expense.
The Valkenbosplein working group hopes this initiative will start a new tradition.
Want to know more or get involved?
Send an email to werkgroep@valkenboscultuurplein.nl, and we’ll keep you updated.
| LOCATION | Valkenbosplein |
| TIME | 11:00 |
| COST | Free |
| MORE INFO | Rob Blokpoel, 06 28803883 |
Meet & Greet will continue as usual during the winter months.
However, the additional activities will only take place outdoors in good weather; otherwise, they will be held indoors at Buza (albeit in a modified format).
In January, February, and March, Meet & Greet at Buza will only take place indoors (drinks required).
To be sure, check our Facebook or Instagram page (ValkenbosCultuurPlein), Hoplr, and Nextdoor.