Oct 8th is a famous date here in Alkmaar. On that day in 1573, the people of the city finally turned back the Spanish who had been laying siege for the better part of two months. The Battle of Alkmaar was the turning point in the eighty years war with Spain, which was won, not through arms, but by breaking the dykes and flooding the land.
Unlike other countries I've lived in, the Netherlands doesn't make a big deal out of their independence. The liberation from Nazi Germany is a public holiday every five years. But there's no national holiday or fireworks to celebrate their freedom from Spain. There is a small fair with a carousel, stands with Dutch Marines, a stage for people to perform, and that's about it.
What the Dutch do like to celebrate is beer. And next Sunday (Oct 16th) is the Bockbier Festival. According to the website, if you visit the bars at the De Boom Museum, there will be 15 special beers from Dutch and foreign brewers to taste. It's also being heavily promoted on Single's sites for those of you looking for a possible love interest. Alcohol and horny people. It should be interesting.
Also, starting November 10th and running until the 12th, is Alkmaar's version of Ocktoberfest. The festivities open with a brass band from Limburg who specializes in a fusion of rock and Austrian polka. There will be Munich style tents to sit inside and drink beer and eat sausages. On the final night, Dieter Koblenz will perform. Who's that? I have no idea, but he'll apparently offer a show where you can't help but sing, clap and stomp along to the music. Good times, I'm sure,
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