Professionals
Do you work in the cultural sector? As a professional visitor, you may be eligible for discounted tickets. Leave your contact details below, and we will get in touch with you soon to discuss the options.
Get inspired
In August 2025, the Noorderzon Festival sees its 35th edition, with its usual mad mix of work of many disciplines and styles. We are excited about many of the artists and companies this year, with Opening Weekend highlights including Dutch Premieres of new work by Albanian-Greek director Mario Banushi and cutting-edge dance from Australian choreographer Alisdair Macindoe, plus a selection of work from Catalunya including new work from El Conde de Torrefiel, Aurora Bauzá & Pere Jou, ‘new kids on the block’ Los Informalls, and the seminal Cabosanroque in the Netherlands for the first time ever.
Every year the festival welcomes many professional colleagues, who enjoy not only the adventurous programme but also the relaxed summer atmosphere of the festival park, and the many possibilities for informal networking provided by the beautiful old city streets and cafés of Groningen. As a festival, we tend away from the organisation of formal activities and meet-ups, but prefer instead the power of the informal and laid back atmosphere of the festival to allow professionals to find their own way, and look for their own encounters.
That being said, we are of course more than ready to help with any practical or logistic issues. What we’d really like is just for you to have a great time visiting the festival, and hopefully to see work and meet artists that resonate strongly with you.
If you’re a Professional working in the cultural sector, we’d be happy to hear from you and help you organise your visit.
About Noorderzon
Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts & Society is a unique blend of a vibrant Groningen summer celebration and an international arts festival. It's where local creators and international pioneers come together, offering theatre, dance, music, literature, and social reflection you won’t easily find anywhere else.
For eleven days, the city comes alive with unexpected performances, intimate encounters, and lively debates. Noorderzon takes place in the bustling Noorderplantsoen park as well as at special locations throughout the city center – all within walking distance.
Plan your visit
Everything is close by – from the big tents to the intimate venues. Performances, installations, bars, and food trucks line a summery route through the city.
Visiting from outside Groningen? The city is easily accessible by train. Did you know we even have our very own Noorderzon train in collaboration with Arriva?
From Groningen Station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the heart of the festival, or hop on an OV-fiets (public transport bike) for a flying start. You can easily pay for your journey with an OV-chip card or a debit/credit card. Prefer a separate ticket? You can buy one at the ticket machines, online via NS, or directly from the bus driver (card payments only).
Plan your route here: www.ns.nl/reisplanner
By Car
The easiest way to park is at a Park + Ride (P+R)on the edge of the city. Parking there is free, and a return ticket to the city center costs €6 (valid for up to 5 people). You can buy this ticket via the Qbuzz webshop or directly on the bus. You’re free to leave your car parked for as long as you like.
Still planning to drive into the city center? Then follow the P-route to use one of the underground parking garages in the city.
Discover the City
For anyone craving more atmosphere and good vibes after the shows: Groningen is packed with great restaurants, trendy bars, and lively cafés. Discover the best spots at VisitGroningen.
Accommodation Tips
After a full festival day, it’s nice to have your bed close by. These are our favorite places to stay – all within walking distance of the Noorderplantsoen and the city center.
- Hotel Corps De Garde
A charming boutique hotel in one of the city’s historic buildings, about a 10-minute walk from the festival. Authentic, personal, and with a warm, homely atmosphere. - The Happy Traveler
A tropical touch in the heart of the city. This colorful hotel hides behind a cheerful façade and surprises you with unique rooms, a cozy bar, and a sunny rooftop terrace. - The Social Hub Groningen
Perfect for those who love buzz, design, and a good breakfast. Stay among students, creatives, and fellow travelers. With a gym, co-working space, and a welcoming lobby to unwind. - Hotel Prinsenhof
Sleep beneath ancient monastery arches in one of the city’s most beautiful hotels. Stylish, serene, and right next to the Prinsentuin – ideal if you love luxury with a touch of history. - Miss Blanche Apartments
A stylish base for those who want a bit more space. These modern apartments are right in the city center, with a private kitchen and a calm retreat after a day full of festival impressions.
Questions?
We look forward to welcoming you to Noorderzon! If you have any questions or want to know more, feel free to email Debbie directly at debbie@noorderzon.nl. She’ll be happy to assist you.