Over the weekend of 12–13 September, the University Library in the city centre will be transformed into a vibrant festival hub. Both the historic building and the courtyard will provide the backdrop for a cultural festival brimming with music, stories and encounters. Good news: a number of our music groups will be there too!
What can you expect?
🎭 Performances by (student) music and dance groups
📚 Discover the rich history of the University Library building and the Special Collections
🎓 Exhibitions, talks and a book fair
🍷 A cosy terrace with snacks and drinks
Everyone is welcome
The festival is free to attend for everyone from the city and the wider region. Whether you’re a student, staff member, local resident or curious passer-by, this is the perfect opportunity to get to know the many facets of Utrecht University and UMC Utrecht.
Programme
Main Stage Square
- 11.30–12.15: Spuit 11
- 12.45–13.30: Score
- 14.00–14.45: Hillsback Brass Band
- 15.15–15.45: Score
- 16.30–18.00: USBB
Small Stage Square
- 12.15–12.45: Catching Cultures Orchestra
- 13.30–14.00: Catching Cultures Orchestra
- 14.45–15.15: Tzigane
- 15.45–16.00: Hillsback Brass Band
- 16.00–16.15: Poetry competition prize-giving ceremony
- 16.15–16.30: Hillsback Brass Band
Square / terrace
- 11.00–16.15: Continuous
- Poetry competition exhibition
- University Museum demonstrations
- Utrecht Reading Benches
- Portraits of Human Rights
Lodewijk
- 11.00–11.30: Odevare
- 11.30–12.15: Catching Cultures Orchestra
- 12.45–13.15: Odevare
- 14.00–14.30: Tzigane
Also:
- 11.00–16.00: Open Monument Day information desk and starting point for guided tours
Grande Galerie
- 11.00–13.30: Discussions on AI
- 14.00–16.30: Discussions on AI
Also:
- 12.30–13.00: In conversation with visitors – Being a University
- 1.30 pm–2.00 pm: In conversation with visitors – Being a University
- 3.15 pm–3.45 pm: In conversation with visitors – Being a University
And:
- 11.00 am–4.15 pm: Ongoing exhibitions:
- Special Collections, University Library
- ‘Being a University’ tapestry exhibition
Grande Galerie Staircase
- 12.00–12.30: Tzigane
- 14.45–15.15: Capella con Sensus
Chapel
- 12.45–13.15: LOF Dance Crew
- 14.00–14.30: LOF Dance Crew
- 15.30–16.00: Capella con Sensus
Anteroom
- 11.15–16.00: Book market
A festival brimming with culture, history and surprises
The festival takes place over the Open Monument Day weekend. That weekend, you can enjoy a varied programme featuring music, dance, exhibitions, storytelling and inspiring presentations. Students, staff, alumni and cultural groups from across the city come together to bring a festive weekend to life.
There’s plenty to see, hear and experience, both indoors and outdoors. Come and watch, listen, discover and meet people. Be inspired by what the university and the city have to offer together.
