On Sunday 2 August, the 44th edition of Oude Ambachten will take place in Einighausen. From 13:00 to 18:00, you can experience rural life as it used to be in Einighausen.
Farm life
On the first Sunday of August, you can witness farm life as it was 50 to 100 years ago in Einighausen. It is often demonstrated by local residents for whom this used to be daily work. There is a strong focus on grain processing. The grain is harvested in the field using a scythe, a billhook or a mowing machine.
Threshing is done manually with flails or with antique threshing machines powered by old engines and a horse-driven system. Many of the demonstrated crafts are closely related to farm work. You can watch the blacksmith, basket weaver, ropemaker, saddler and village carpenter at work.
In those days, women were occupied with household tasks and handicrafts such as spinning, weaving, mending and sewing. You can see all of this during Oude Ambachten.
Old tools
All along the route, you can admire old tools and equipment, many of which are still in operation. There is even a special exhibition featuring more than fifty antique tools.
Tractors
Along the route, you will see various old tractors, machines, steamrollers and stationary engines in all colours, sizes and brands. Many of these machines are also in motion on the route.
Baking vlaai
Each year, around 700 to 800 vlaai are enjoyed by approximately 8,000 visitors of Oude Ambachten. They are prepared on-site and baked in a traditional sjansenaove (wood-fired oven). You can also taste other traditional dishes such as heutvleisj, sjenk, waffles, pancakes and riefkoeken during Oude Ambachten.
Draft horses
The farm draft horse plays a central role during Oude Ambachten. They pull the mowing machines and binder, power the horse-driven system and demonstrate how land used to be cultivated with a plough, harrow and cultivator.
You will also regularly encounter them strolling calmly along the route, and groups of eight horses give dressage demonstrations.
Entertainment
In addition to more than 100 demonstrations, there is plenty of entertainment. There are several terraces along the route where you can enjoy live music.
For children, there is a treasure hunt along the route, they can have their faces painted, decorate cookies, play traditional games or watch an exciting puppet show.
In the beautiful church, concerts take place continuously, and along the route you will encounter roaming musicians and other performers such as a street magician and folk dance groups who will entertain you with music and dance. A traditional wagon play is also performed.
Oude Ambachten Afterparty
Afterwards, you can head to the festival tent in the Paerewei to enjoy a barbecue snack and a refreshing drink.
