Despite the rain and unseasonably warm temperatures, 30,000 visitors passed through WinterWelVaart in the city centre of Groningen over the weekend.
During WinterWelVaart, dozens of old ships moor at the Hoge and Lage der A, flanked by market stalls selling seasonal treats and trinkets while Christmas carols float through the air. WinterWelvaart is a Christmas event which is unique to the northern Netherlands, thanks in large part to the province of Groningen’s seafaring and maritime culture.
Even though the weather outside was pretty frightful, event organisers and vendors alike were pleased with the big turnout. But perhaps the biggest impact of WinterWelVaart is just how photogenic it is: the twinkling lights on the stately boats create an irresistible scene for photographers. Here are some of the best shots shared on Twitter over the weekend.
