Opening Parade
Gather in the main city square for the parade start
~10:00
Street Theatre & Acrobatics Festival
Deventer Op Stelten
Deventer, Netherlands
Jul 3 - 5, 2026ConfirmedSource
Each summer, the historic streets of Deventer become open-air stages for Deventer Op Stelten, a festival of street theatre and acrobatics. Performers from around the world fill the squares with daring stunts and surprising shows, turning the city into a playground for the arts since 1993.
Key moments
Day 1 · Jul 3
Where it happens
Brink
Deventer, Netherlands
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Dress for the setting
Comfortable walking shoes
Read the local rhythm
Awareness of performance schedule
Keep the visit respectful
Be an attentive audience to street performers; give space.
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: high.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Street Theatre & Acrobatics Festival
Deventer Op Stelten
Deventer, Netherlands
Each summer, the historic streets of Deventer become open-air stages for Deventer Op Stelten, a festival of street theatre and acrobatics. Performers from around the world fill the squares with daring stunts and surprising shows, turning the city into a playground for the arts since 1993.
Starts soonStarts in 5 days
AnchorCultural anchor
Jul 3 - 5, 2026Confirmed dates
Verified this year
Saved locally on this device. A free account keeps your shortlist across devices.
The story behind it
Started in 1993, this festival highlights Deventer’s commitment to (outdoor) arts and culture. It is part of Deventer’s identity as a ‘city of stories’ and reflects a Dutch tradition of kotaert (street theatre). The festival integrates local venues (squares, parks, churches) and is organized by the city arts council and volunteers.
Key moments to know
Day 1Jul 3~10:00Expected
Opening Parade
Gather in the main city square for the parade start
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Dress for the setting
Comfortable walking shoes
Read the local rhythm
Awareness of performance schedule
Keep the visit respectful
Be an attentive audience to street performers; give space.
Respect local boundaries
Respect performers (often street artists); no glass or large items in performance areas.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jul 3 - 5, 2026
Confirmed
City / Area
Deventer
Overijssel
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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