Under a clear evening sky, thousands of visitors at the head of Willemshaven enjoyed the opening concert of Sail Harlingen. And so, the Thursday that had begun with rain and strong winds came to a wonderful close. Music, socialising, tall ships and a dazzling sunset. ‘The sky turned golden.’

The Royal Netherlands Navy Marine Band, together with Floor Jansen, Melissa Pander and Wiebe van Dijk, performed the event’s opening concert. So we’re off to a flying start. The first tall ships have moored and are gently docking at the quays. Here’s to more. ‘Here’s to four fantastic days,’ said director Lieuwe Krol. ‘And thanks to the sun, the sky turned golden for a moment on Thursday evening.’

The concert marked the start of a long weekend during which Harlingen will be entirely focused on the Tall Ships Races 2026. With the Ferris wheel, the historic inner harbour, the lighthouse and the first ships moored at the quayside, the Frisian town is ready for the next stage of the event.

Sail In Parade

Friday 3 July sees one of the highlights of Sail Harlingen: the Sail In Parade. From 12.00, the international fleet will sail into the harbour. Thousands of visitors are expected along the dykes, on the quays and in the town centre to welcome the crews and the tall ships. Sail Harlingen runs until Sunday 6 July. The organisers expect around 300,000 visitors over the course of the event.