koelklepen

Koelklepen is a traditional Dutch practice associated with the arrival of spring and the changing of the seasons. It involves hanging a decorative effigy, often made from straw and colorful rags, from a tree or a prominent outdoor location. This effigy typically represents a bird, with the name "koelklepen" itself roughly translating to "cuckoo hanging."

The custom is believed to have roots in older spring festivals that celebrated the end of winter and the promise of new life. The hanging of the koelklep was a symbolic act, welcoming the return of migratory birds, including the cuckoo, whose call is a well-known sound of spring in the Netherlands. It also served as a cheerful display, bringing color and festivity to the landscape after the muted tones of winter.

While the practice is not as widespread as it once was, remnants of koelklepen can still be observed in some rural areas and in community events organized for cultural preservation. It is generally a lighthearted tradition, associated with outdoor activities and the general sense of renewal that spring brings. The specific design of the koelklep can vary, but the intention remains the same: to mark the transition to warmer weather and to evoke a sense of joy and anticipation for the coming season.