Historical Parade
In 2026, we will bring Maastricht’s rich history to life together in a festive parade showcasing the highlights of the city’s past. The parade is inspired by the one from 1905, led by Fons Olterdissen. Have you always wanted to take part in a grand procession? Everyone is welcome: young and old, associations, schools, neighbourhood groups, or individuals.
In September 2026, during the “Maastricht Year,” we will host a grand event: the Historical Parade. Around ten tableaux vivants – short theatrical performances at special locations throughout the city center – will bring Maastricht’s past back to life. At the end of the day, all the tableaux will join together, along with other groups, to form one festive parade: a colorful procession where past and present come together.
Who are we looking for?
For the tableaux:
We are looking for theater makers and theater groups who would like to shape the content of these tableaux through short, continuous (repeating) performances of 5 to 10 minutes. These can also consist of several short scenes that are repeated.
In addition, we are seeking all kinds of associations and clubs (such as music groups, carnival associations, student societies, sports clubs, dancers, schools, neighbourhood groups, care institutions, migrant organisations—in short: everyone who wants to join in!) to collaborate with the theater groups in bringing the tableaux to life. Each performance will be a partnership between a theatrical company and one or more unexpected partners.
For the parade:
Groups and associations that do not wish to take part in a tableau but would like to join the parade are also welcome. The key condition here is: collaborate with another partner and portray a historical theme from Maastricht. This can be done in a creative and contemporary way! What matters most is that the chosen story is conveyed clearly and recognisably—through words, images, music, or movement.
Register as an association, group, or organization via stoet@maastrichtjaar2026.nl.
Briefly tell us who you are, with whom you would like to collaborate (or let us know if we should help you find a partner), which historical theme you would like to portray, and how. We will then get in touch with you soon!
It is possible that several parties may register to portray the same historical element in the parade. In that case, we will put you in touch with each other to avoid duplication. The final registrations will be reviewed by a committee, which will consider the historical and/or contemporary relevance, the degree of “unexpected collaboration,” and the quality and creativity of the proposed performance.
What do you get in return?
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Material costs for participation can be covered upon agreement, up to a maximum amount to be determined
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A reimbursement based on voluntary participation
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Professional guidance from cultural partners to ensure the historical stories are portrayed accurately and creatively
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Visibility: your club/association/organisation presents itself to a large audience in the heart of the city
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Not to mention the pride and joy of taking part in the highlight of the Maastricht Year!
