Castle de Haar in all its glory
Experience the grandeur of the September tradition
1 t/m 28 september
In September, the history of Castle de Haar comes to life! Visit the castle and gardens and experience the grandeur of the September tradition: the annual stay of the baron and baroness, together with their high-ranking guests. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of yesteryear: get a drink handed to you by the butler, slide into the Dining Hall, play a game of chess in the Knights' Hall and see the staff in action as if the family could arrive at any moment.
Discover the castle in all its glory and be transported into the stories, atmosphere and style of the past during the free guided tour 'A guest of the baron and baroness'. Admire the service dress, the unique 700-piece silver cutlery and the gowns of the baronesses. In addition, the centuries-old Chapel will open its doors to the public especially for this month.
There is even more to discover on the weekends: the gardens are the setting for historic vehicles and traditional games. Who will you challenge to a game of croquet? For children there are two adventurous treasure hunts full of secrets and stories. And of course, Restaurant Laverie serves Baron Etienne's favorite cocktail: the classic Whisky Sour!
The September Tradition
Castle de Haar breathes hospitality and is built to receive guests in a grand manner. In the last century, that hospitality came to life in all its glory every September. The Van Zuylen van Nijevelt family descended on its country residence for a "grandiose respite" with distinguished guests from all over the world. They enjoyed grand dinners, extravagant feasts and each other's company, of luxury and abundance.
Weeks before their arrival, the castle came alive. The staff hurried through the corridors to make every room tiptop. Cupboards were taken off the walls, the copper was polished, the linen was starched, the floors were waxed. The French kitchen brigade already began trial cooking - every detail was prepared and nothing was left to chance.
Program
There is plenty to do at Castle de Haar in September - discover the full program of activities below.
Note: in case of rain or strong wind, some activities may be cancelled or adapted.
Castle exhibition
The castle is bustling with activity! Receive a drink from the butler, slide into the Dining Hall or play chess in the Knights' Hall and experience the house in all its glory of yesteryear.
Opening lecture
Discover the hidden stories of Kasteel de Haar during the opening lecture. Curator Katrien Timmers takes you back to the September days of the last century. A festive kickoff of the September tradition in the atmospheric Chapel.
Guided tours
Be a guest of the baron and baroness during the free castle tour in September. Every weekday between 12:00 and 15:00, every half hour the guide will tell stories about noble traditions and ancient customs.
Gardens
Over the weekend, the gardens come alive. Play croquet, tennis or chess, take a ride in a historic vehicle and enjoy music among the greenery. Or follow the special walking route.
Program
Every day in September there is something going on in the castle, gardens and the Chapel. All activities are included with your castle or park ticket. Click here for the full program from day to day.
Children
Children also celebrate in September. Go on adventures with treasure hunts in the castle and gardens, discover surprises along the way, play outside and enjoy rides in historic vehicles and fun games during the weekend.
Chapel
In September the Chapel opens its doors daily for visitors (except Sept. 8). Where once the Baron and Baroness attended mass, you are also welcome to attend the Vespers on Sept. 7 with Pastor Ambting and choir Group Michael conducted by Vincent Doek (full is full).
Concerts
On Wednesdays the carillon fills the air with music. Carillonneur Wim Ruitenbeek brings Het Haar song and classics to life. In September you can also enjoy the music of the Utrecht Student Choir & Orchestra.
Hospitality
Taste the atmosphere of September: settle down at Tuynhuis Gabrielle and enjoy a snack and drink in the castle gardens. Of course Restaurant Laverie will serve Baron Etienne's favorite cocktail: the classic Whisky sour!
Experience more
~ Maintenance of our heritage ~
January until October 2026
Summer in the castle gardens
4 July until 30 August 2026
Garden Tour: Gardens Full of Stories
July 3 through October 31




