At the end of June, when the final hay had been brought in, farmers and townspeople gathered for the heamiel: a shared meal of rice, raisins, boerenjongens and brandy. Long tables filled the streets of Bolsward, where young and old sat side by side.
Since 1950, the Heamiel Days have been part of the official calendar. In 1952, the introduction of the Hay Queen added a ceremonial opening that continues to this day.
What started as a harvest meal has grown into a four-day festival with traditional ring riding, live music, a fairground and fireworks. At its heart remains the Heamiel lunch, people coming together at one table, just as they did in the past.
During the final weekend of June, Bolsward comes alive. Heamiel Bolsward is a living tradition where the Frisian community gathers and visitors are warmly welcomed.
