art & culture
Vlöggel'n in Ootmarsum
- 05 - 6 Apr 2026
- 17:00- 18:00
- Free of charge
- Ootmarsum
On April 5 and 6, a special Easter custom will take place in Ootmarsum: the Vlöggel'n. This age-old ritual begins at 5 p.m., when the Poaskearls gather on the Easter Meadow. There they walk once around the Easter wood, while singing together the song "Christ is risen."
On April 5 and 6, a special Easter custom will take place in Ootmarsum: the Vlöggel'n. This age-old ritual begins at 5 p.m., when the Poaskearls gather on the Easter Meadow. There they walk once around the Easter wood, while singing together the song "Christ is risen."
After this ceremony, the Poaskearls head toward town, where the actual Vlöggel'n begins. On the outskirts of Ootmarsum, the oldest Poaskearl places his right hand on his lower back, after which his "moat" places his left hand on it. The other Poaskearls join the line in order of their years of service, followed by the cantor.
Gradually, the entire community - young and old - joins in, creating a long, winding chain of people. While singing, they march through the streets and alleys of Ootmarsum, past steeps and characteristic buildings. The march ends on the Market Square, where both Easter carols are sung one last time.
To conclude this special ritual, the children present are lifted up under loud cheers - a symbolic moment full of joy and tradition.
Since 2015, both the Rondgang van de Nachtwacht and the Easter customs of the poaskearls in Ootmarsum have been listed as Intangible Heritage in the Netherlands.
