Kinderboekenweek 2026: find an activity near you

Two children in a theater are holding up a sign featuring Spot

Your kid doesn't have to wait for the school play this year. From 30 September through 11 October, Kinderboekenweek 2026 is all about Spot aan, spotlight on, and every region has a stage ready. Click the map to see what's on near you. Book or reserve your spot.

Spotlight on! Here are the best kinderboekenweek activities

From red carpet to a cardboard flying hotel

In Maastricht, AINSI theatre rolls out the red carpet for the Kinderboekenbal, with a show by Paul van Loon. In Heerlen, your kid grabs the bass guitar on the stage of Poppodium Nieuwe Nor before you've even finished reading the programme. In Groningen, kids build a real flying hotel out of cardboard, inspired by the book Hotel Zweefkees. All across the Netherlands, Kinderboekenweek 2026 has something on, from free library festivals to an afternoon on a real stage. See what's happening in your region, with age, price and times included.

Read the full overview

Colorful book cover illustration for 'Donnie wil de hoofdrol'

Frequently asked questions about Kinderboekenweek

What is Kinderboekenweek?

Kinderboekenweek is the Netherlands' national campaign around children's books, organised by the CPNB. Every year the week takes on a new theme: in 2026 that's Spot aan, spotlight on, with the focus on stage, theatre and putting yourself out there. Libraries, theatres and museums across the country build activities around that theme, from storytime sessions to full festivals. Playtix collects those activities here by region, so you can quickly find something that suits your kid's age.

When is Kinderboekenweek 2026?

Kinderboekenweek 2026 runs from Wednesday 30 September through Sunday 11 October.

What is the theme of Kinderboekenweek 2026?

The theme is Spot aan, spotlight on, with activities built around stage, theatre and performing.

Is Kinderboekenweek free?

Entry to most festivals and library activities is free. For individual shows and workshops you usually pay a small fee, typically between €4 and €10.

What age is Kinderboekenweek for?

Most activities suit kids aged 4 to 12, with separate programmes for toddlers and for kids aged 8 and up.

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Curious what's on in your region? Read the full overview: Kinderboekenweek 2026: activities by region