Vlaggetjesdag

Vlaggetjesdag, or Flag Day, is a traditional Dutch harbour celebration that marks the arrival of the first herring of the season, the so-called nyeuwe haring. The day is most closely associated with Scheveningen, the harbour district of The Hague, and is held annually in the spring or early summer, with the exact date determined by the herring season. The event is also observed in other Dutch fishing towns.

During Vlaggetjesdag the first catch is weighed and publicly presented, and the fishing boats display small flags, or vlaggetjes, on their masts to celebrate a good harvest. The harbour area fills with markets and stalls where people can buy fresh new herring and other seafood, often served with onions and pickles. In Scheveningen there are public events, speeches, and sometimes a parade of boats along the harbour, accompanied by music and other street performances.

The festival has grown into a broader symbol of Dutch coastal culture and fishing heritage, attracting both locals and visitors. It is a family-friendly occasion that highlights regional food traditions and the importance of the fishing sector to coastal communities. While Scheveningen hosts the most prominent celebrations, the spirit of Vlaggetjesdag resonates across several towns along the Dutch coast, reflecting a shared cultural tradition centered on the start of the herring season.