Battle of Bourtange (Napoleonic)

On Saturday, June 14th and Sunday, June 15th, 2025, the grand mock battle, "The Battle of Bourtange," will be held in and around the Bourtange fortress.

This year, it's 1814 again in Bourtange. Napoleon's troops are in the fortress. The Dutch army, supported by helpful armies from Belgium, Germany, England, and France, among others, is trying to recapture their fortress.

Soldiers have set up camp in and around the fortress. Clothing, weapons, kitchen utensils, tents, camp life, and eating habits are exact replicas of the period around 1814. Visitors truly travel back in time. On both days, skirmishes and spectacles are taking place throughout the fortress, and visitors can witness firsthand how the soldiers lived and worked in the camps and conducted trade.

The highlight is the grand battle. A large parade with all the soldiers (except the fallen and wounded) concludes the event.

The roar of the cannons, the report of the muskets, the martial melodies of drums and flutes and the sight of heroic soldiers fighting for their country will remain in the memory of the visitor for a long time to come.

“Tangible” history, where one can immerse oneself in the midst of it!

Programme:

Starting Friday, June 13th, soldiers from the Napoleonic era will be marching in and around the Bourtange fortress. The official opening will be held on Saturday, June 14th at 10:00 AM. Various activities will take place in the fortress on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 AM.

Children from 0 to 5 years are free.
Parking is free.