Every year it happens again: somewhere mid April I turn the corner of the Barteljorisstraat to the Grote Markt and, while looking at our pretty city square, I sigh because the yearly fair has taken over the square once again.

Its arrival always surprises me, which honestly is quite funny because the fair has come to town every year since I have lived in Haarlem and by now it really shouldn’t surprise me anymore.

I don’t know why I seem to forget. Maybe because it is just not really for me. I have never liked things that go really fast and high and that spin you around (especially not all at once). Maybe it is because the fair not only attracts young families, but also a lot of teenagers that always seem to get into fights (not during the day, during the day Haarlem is as peaceful as ever!). And then there is the noise. I know I sound like an old lady saying this, but the music they play is extremely bad and it is on everyday from noon until late at night.

This year though, the fair includes a ferris wheel. And this ferris wheel might very well be the thing that wins me over and makes me looking forward to the fair coming back to town next year. I don’t know, I still can do without all the loud music and young guys looking for trouble on the square, but riding the ferris wheel and enjoying its amazing view over our city is quite lovely. Also, when I walk home at night I can see the lights of the ferris wheel towering over the houses in the center which looks so beautiful.

The fair usually arrives in Haarlem in the third week of April and leaves after Kings Day which is the 27th of April. Entrance to the fair is free. Check www.kermis-haarlem.nl for more details.