One evening a year, Bergen is filled with little lights. Gardens, houses, terraces and the Ruïnekerk: the whole centre joins in. Lichtjesavond, literally “evening of lights”, is the village’s oldest summer tradition, and we are right in the middle of it. Here is what you need to know.
When is it?
Wednesday 4 August 2027. Lichtjesavond is always held on the first Wednesday of August. The real moment comes when darkness falls, but the village fills up early in the evening.
Where it comes from
The tradition began in 1926. The people of Bergen wanted to thank their summer guests with a convivial evening, and placed candles and lanterns in their gardens and in front of their windows. In 2026 the village celebrated one hundred years of Lichtjesavond.
What makes it special is that nobody organises it officially. It is the residents and business owners themselves who decorate their homes, gardens and premises. In recent years more and more activities have been added.
Since 1926, a thank-you to everyone who comes to visit Bergen.
What you will see
- Illuminated gardens and lanes, especially in the old streets around the centre
- The Ruïnekerk, the focal point of the evening; in 2026 with a light projection on its walls
- Music at various spots around the village
- Packed terraces; the whole village is outside
Our tips
Come early. Eat something first, then walk around as it gets dark.
Leave the car at home. The centre is full. Come by bike, or take bus 166 from Alkmaar railway station to Bergen Plein.
Explore the side streets too. Around the church is where the party is; in the streets around it you will find the prettiest gardens and more peace and quiet.
Bring a cardigan. Even in August it cools down at the coast in the evening.
Where is the best place to sit?
Close to the Ruïnekerk, because that is where it all happens. Fabel’s is directly opposite. From our terrace you look out onto the illuminated church and watch the village stroll by.
On Lichtjesavond it is busy at our place. If you are coming with six people or more, please book and we will keep a table for you. With fewer, just walk in: first come, first served. If there is no table free for a moment, you can wait at the bar.
Fabel’s tip
Come at the start of the evening for dinner, and stay seated as the lights come on. The view does not get any better than this.
Good to know
When is Lichtjesavond in Bergen?
Always on the first Wednesday of August. In 2027 that is Wednesday 4 August.
How long has Lichtjesavond existed?
Since 1926. Residents came up with it as a thank-you to the tourists. In 2026 it celebrated its hundredth anniversary.
Is Lichtjesavond free?
Yes. Walking around and looking costs nothing; everyone is welcome.
Can you book at Fabel’s for Lichtjesavond?
For groups of six or more, yes, online or by phone. With fewer people you just walk in; do come early.
Written by the team at Fabel’s eten & drinken, Oude Prinsweg 9, Bergen (NH), the Netherlands. Last updated on 9 November 2026.