De Nijverheid Utrecht
Creative hotspot in industrial area
De Nijverheid – meaning industry or diligence in Dutch – is a cultural hotspot located in an old industrial area of Utrecht. The name is definitely fitting, because the staff and volunteers here sure worked hard to provide Utrecht with a wide range of expositions, activities, music and just general fun… alongside with having one of the coziest terraces in Utrecht to get a few beers and grab a bite.
What I like about the Nijverheid is that, especially in summer, you can go there on almost any day, and there will be some sort of event or exposition planned. These can range from outdoor cinemas, art exhibitions, open mics, concerts, raves, beer festivals, storytelling… you name it. They can be small and intimate or large and exciting. But the good vibes and creative setting always make it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. The star of the show (in my opinion) is the Exboot: a former houseboat that was previously used on the Zandpad, the old ‘red light district’ of Utrecht. It now serves as a museum about the illustrious history of the Zandpad, as well as an exhibition space.
Some events are paid, but most are free – just check the website.
To get there, rent an (OV) bike (recommended) or take the bus. You can combine a visit to Nijverheid with visits to other cool places in the Cartesiusweg area, like DB’s, NAR or Kabul à gogo.
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