Time-honoured traditions enhance event in young city

Dutch Market for twentieth time

EDMONTON, Alberta – Centuries-old traditions and entertainment of the Netherlands will rub shoulders with contemporary goods and merchandise at the upcoming annual Dutch Spring Market at Edmonton, a city now aged just over 100 years. The Schagen-based Westfrisian folk dance group has been booked for a performance each hour, while vaandelzwaaier Martien Opsteen will show his skill at banner throwing (a medieval ceremony adhered to in Bakel, North Brabant, from as far back as 1296) four times.

The rising popularity of the Dutch Spring Market has everything to do with its delicious Dutch finger food such as fried fish, herring, oliebollen, cheese and even pastry. Numerous vendors man the stalls and booths showcasing crafts and mementoes. Among them is at least one cheese maker, a woodenshoe promoter and a Dutch antiques importer.

Now a 'mature' community institution after 20 years, the Dutch Spring Market attracts people from a wide area, including travelers from neighbouring provinces. For years, the market day has been joined by the Dutch Radio Program – now Even Pauze – which broadcasts live from the site at the Dutch Canadian Club. The annual event no doubt is the club’s best-attended happening of the year. On Saturday May 13, the doors at the Dutch Canadian Club will remain open from 9:00am till 3:00pm. The club’s location is 13312 – 142 Street, Edmonton. The event each year is held on the second or third Saturday in May.