The first Saturday of fall break promises to be a colorful day for young and old alike. There’s plenty to do at various locations throughout the city center. A long-standing tradition is the Zotte Parade: a colorful procession of medieval characters and musicians winds its way through the streets of Gouda and ends this year at De Waag, where the festival will be officially opened.
During this fourteenth edition of Crazy Saturday, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of music, stories, historical figures, food, drinks, and, of course, plenty of crazy fun in the streets. The legacy of Erasmus is also shared in a lighthearted way.
Zotte Zaterdag Will Continue in Gouda
The 2026 edition is special. For the past eight years, Zotte Zaterdag has been organized by Cultuurhuis Garenspinnerij - De Kunstmachine. Earlier this year, the municipality and the cultural center announced that it is time for Zotte Zaterdag to take the next step by transitioning to a new, independent organization. Work is currently underway to ensure the festival’s sustainable continuation.
An enthusiastic team of experienced volunteers has therefore decided, after consulting with the parties involved, to continue the festival in a modified form during this transitional year. They can count on the support of the Cultuurmakelaar, the municipality of Gouda, Cultuurhuis Garenspinnerij - De Kunstmachine, and various partners.
“We believe it’s important that Zotte Zaterdag goes ahead even in this transitional year,” said Gerrie Lammé of the organizing team. “The festival has become a wonderful tradition in Gouda, and we want to give visitors another delightful, crazy day in the city center this year.”
Volunteers Wanted
To ensure this edition is a success as well, the organization is still looking for volunteers. Extra hands are welcome both in the lead-up to the festival and on October 17 itself. Anyone who would like to help or contribute in another way can contact us at vrijwilligers@zottezaterdag.nl.
Be sure to mark Saturday, October 17, on your calendar. More information and the program for Zotte Zaterdag will be announced shortly on the website www.zottezaterdag.nl.
Zotte Zaterdag is a “Ster” event in Gouda.
