Winter Market Opening Weekend

The holidays are approaching! Time for rosy cheeks, warm mittens, twinkling lights, and festive songs. Our ground floor is fully decorated with Surinamese and winter vibes, featuring cozy stalls where you can find, for example, your last-minute Christmas gifts or join a fun activity. Will we see you there?

During the opening weekend, there will be extra activities and performances:

The Circle and Cultures of Suriname
In this interactive workshop, you will explore the migration history of the various Surinamese communities. Learn the meanings behind different patterns and use drawing techniques to bring the designs to life in your own way.

Leaf Painting
Learn brush painting on the leaves of the Bodhi tree, which is common in Suriname and was brought there by the Hindustani community. Leaf painting is an ancient traditional Chinese and Indian art form. This workshop is offered in both Dutch and English.

Making a Lapoe
The pangi is a traditional Surinamese wrap skirt worn by women from the Maroon communities in Suriname. It symbolizes pride, connection, and cultural identity. The colorful embroidery, often featuring symbols, flowers, and animals, tells stories and keeps traditions alive. In this workshop, you can embroider your own design in the same vibrant and meaningful style.

Black Harmony
Come listen to Black Harmony! This vocal group is currently touring with the Netherlands Wind Ensemble, but they are making a special appearance at Naturalis. Black Harmony sings in Surinamese and will perform a cappella on December 13.

Join the Dating Table
Take a seat at the dating table, made from a 131-year-old oak tree. You’ll also find a piece of kapok tree and a question: why doesn’t the kapok tree have growth rings? It all has to do with the seasons, or the lack thereof in Suriname. Our educational guides will be happy to tell you more.

Program
Here you can find the program for Saturday and Sunday. This is a free event.