The Nieuwegein municipality (we used to live here) organised a ‘Lichtjesavond’ (A Night of Lights) at the Noorderveld Cemetery last Friday evening (4 November). We were not here visiting out of curiosity, but we were here because we were visiting the Dutch father.
It was my first time to visit a Lichtjesavond and I was very much impressed at the organisation put into this event and the heartwarming atmosphere they have created onsite. It did good to all the people visiting with loved ones buried here. Torch lights guided every path.. Lanterns were hanged on the trees. Burning fires were stationed on corners to help warm up those who are cold.
In addition to this, we witnessed a choir singing softly, and at the area where the Dutch father is laid to rest was a girl singing and playing with her guitar under the tree.
You could light (free) candles and write something on a stone, and then leave it on the grave of your loved one. There was some warm free drinks of coffee, tea and chocolate milk as well, served at the main building.
It was a beautiful evening, and luckily the rain only came pouring down half past 20:00. Kudos to the local authorities in Nieuwegein for organizing such a lovely and heartwarming event.
And today Sunday as well, we visited Blondine at Den en Rust where she is laid to rest.
PS. We do not really publicly celebrate the All Souls and Saints Day here in the Netherlands.
All the main paths in the cemetery were lighted with torches.
Choir singing beautiful melodies for everyone.
The lantern the Dutch mother laid on Dutch father's tomb.
Free coffee, tea and chocolate milk for everyone.
And these are Blondine's favourite flowers...
Visit Period: November 2016
Destination: Nieuwegein (Utrecht), the Netherlands
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All pictures were taken by a point and shoot pocket camera or iPhone.