Treasure hunting at the Grote Markt

Every local in The Hague knows the Grote Markt, the beating heart of the city’s shopping and nightlife scene. But there is more to this square than its lively terraces. This is where sustainable ambitions meet a packed calendar of free live music and a close-knit community of hospitality entrepreneurs. And yes, even on such a well-known square, there are still plenty of unique treasures to be found. Time to tell you more.

The staff of the eight venues on the Grote Markt are like one big family, working together to make sure everyone has their place on the square. Whether you drop in at Vavoom, Café Zèta, De Zwarte Ruiter, Wijnbar September, Hoender en Hop, De Boterwaag or just across the street at our Hague treasure Café Nationaal, you are always in the right spot. Order from wherever you like and find the place that suits you. Eat stone oven pizzas or freshly churned ice cream from De Bakplaats on the terrace of Hoender en Hop? Sip one of the hundred wines from September’s list in the music pavilion at the centre of the square? No problem. The Grote Markt feels like a village square in the middle of the city, a place where everyone comes together and works together.

Also fun: there are plenty of options if you are planning a party or event. The cosy Blauwe Kamer can be rented for your own workshop, celebration or meeting.

Always Something Going On

The Grote Markt is never quiet. It is a party every day. In March the season kicks off with the largest St Patrick’s Day Festival in the Netherlands, followed by a line-up of always free events including the Spring Beer Festival, rock and indie fest Sniester, jazz and world music during Summertime, the American roots festival Wild Rooster, a full Oktoberfest and the colourful Mexican Dia de Muertos.

And even on regular days the square is buzzing. Join salsa night at De Boterwaag every Wednesday, dance on Saturdays at the silent disco this summer, or check out jam sessions by conservatory students, DJs at Zèta, live bands at De Zwarte Ruiter and jazz concerts at Wijnbar September.

The Most Sustainable Square in the Netherlands?

Here is something you might not know: the Grote Markt is well on its way to becoming the most sustainable square in the Netherlands. The entrepreneurs here aim to lead the way when it comes to sustainability and want to show that going green is possible on a large scale, especially by working together and making smart choices.

The kitchens run without gas, waste is kept to a minimum, and food waste is actively prevented. Many of the products are sourced locally and delivered in electric vans. Even the cookies served with your coffee are baked in-house, avoiding unnecessary packaging. Now that is a nice touch.

It just goes to show: no matter how well you think you know your own city and its most famous spots, there is always something new to discover. The Grote Markt is living proof of that: a vibrant hospitality square that continues to surprise, with its atmosphere, collaboration and forward-looking approach to sustainability.

You can use your Haagse Schatten gift card at Café-Brasserie Nationaal, the local treasure of the Grote Markt. Or why not surprise a friend, colleague, uncle or aunt from The Hague with this gift? It is perfect for anyone who deserves a little adventure through our beautiful city. With every gift card, you receive a Haagse Schatten map, helping the lucky recipient explore both the city and its hidden gems.

The best part? Every euro you spend on the card is guaranteed to support a local business in The Hague. That way, we can all keep enjoying the city’s hotspots run by passionate, dedicated local entrepreneurs. By now, there are more than sixty Haagse Schatten where you can redeem your gift card – so there is something for everyone.