Lichtvalt

Lichtvalt is a small village situated in the northern part of the Dutch province of Groningen. The settlement lies approximately 12 kilometres south-east of the regional centre of Assen and is surrounded by extensive polders, agricultural fields and a network of ditches that are typical of the North European Plain. The local landscape is dominated by flat terrain, with an average elevation of about two metres above sea level.

The village was first mentioned in archival documents dating to the early seventeenth century, where it appears as a minor agricultural hamlet. Over the centuries, Lichtvalt has remained primarily a farming community, with a focus on dairy cattle and the cultivation of rye and potatoes. In 1962 a small cooperative dairy processing plant was established, boosting the local economy and providing a social gathering place for residents.

Today, the population of Lichtvalt is roughly 430 inhabitants. The demographic profile is predominantly Dutch, with a minority of residents having origins in Indonesia and Suriname, reflecting broader patterns of Dutch migration from former colonies. Public services include a primary school, a community centre and a volunteer fire department. The village is connected by a local bus line to nearby larger towns, facilitating commuting for work or education.

Culturally, Lichtvalt hosts an annual harvest festival that celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region. The festival features local produce stalls, folk music, and a traditional cheese-tasting competition. The surrounding wetlands also serve as a habitat for a variety of bird species, drawing visitors from across the province for birdwatching during spring and autumn migration periods.