RUIGENHOEKSE POLDER, UTRECHT
30.05.26
Location
Soenda Festival takes place in the Ruigenhoekse Polder, which is part of the Noorderpark.
For specific navigation addresses and directions on how to get there, please see the “Transport” FAQ
Date & Opening Hours
Soenda Festival takes place on Saturday, May 30, 2026.
The festival is open from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Entrance Times
The entrance to Soenda Festival is open from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
After this time, the entrance will be closed and it will no longer be possible to enter the festival.
Re-entry Policy
No, unfortunately re-entry is not possible.
Once you leave Soenda Festival, you can only re-enter by presenting a new, unused ticket that has not yet been scanned.
Age Requirement
To attend Soenda Festival, you must be at least 18 years old.
You may be asked to show valid identification. If you are unable to do so, access to the festival may be denied.
Tokens & Payments
Yes, during Soenda Festival you can purchase tokens at the cash desks and machines on the festival grounds.
These tokens can be exchanged for drinks and food at the bars and food trucks.
Payment Method
At Soenda Festival, payment is card-only.
Cash payments are not accepted.
Lockers
Yes, lockers are available for rent at Soenda Festival.
You can store items such as clothing and other valuables that you don’t want to carry with you all day. The lockers can be opened and closed an unlimited number of times.
You can rent a locker online in advance or on-site at the locker desk. We recommend renting a locker online to avoid waiting in line at the festival.
Use of lockers is at your own risk.
Where can I buy tickets for the event?
Tickets are available via the official Soenda Festival website and our ticket partner Weeztix.
We strongly advise purchasing tickets only through the official presale channels and TicketSwap. Only tickets bought through these channels are guaranteed to be valid and eligible for customer support.
What if the event is sold out?
If the event is sold out, we recommend purchasing tickets exclusively through TicketSwap, an official ticket partner.
The organization strongly discourages buying tickets from third parties, as the validity of these tickets cannot be guaranteed. Only tickets purchased via the official presale channels and TicketSwap are guaranteed to be valid and supported by the organization.
Can my ticket be scanned from my phone?
Yes, absolutely. Please make sure your screen brightness is set to 100% and have your phone ready when entering the event.
I’ve lost my ticket for the event — what should I do?
This can happen. First, please check your email inbox and spam folder carefully.
If you still can’t find your ticket, look for your order number, which can be found in the payment description of your transaction. With this order number, you can retrieve your tickets via Weeztix HERE.
We bought a group ticket for (event name). Can I enter separately from the rest of the group?
Yes. A group ticket consists of four separate pages. Each page represents one individual ticket and can be scanned separately from the others.
How does it work if I purchased a locker online?
If you rented a locker online through our ticket shop, you will receive an email no later than 7:00 PM on the day before the event containing your locker number and PIN code.
You do not need to visit the locker desk at the event—you can go directly to your locker and start using it.
If you did not receive your locker number and code, please contact Lockerbox via tickets@lockerbox.nl or visit the Lockerbox service desk at the event with your proof of purchase.
How does it work if I purchased a parking ticket online?
If you purchased a parking ticket online, please show it to the parking attendant upon arrival.
This can be either a printed ticket or a mobile ticket. Once your ticket is scanned and validated, you will be allowed to enter the parking area and park your car.
How does it work if I purchased a bus ticket online?
If you purchased a bus ticket online, please show it when boarding the bus.
This can be either a printed ticket or a mobile ticket. Once your ticket is scanned and validated, you will receive a hardcopy bus ticket, which allows you to board the bus.
Do I need to keep my bus ticket for the return trip?
Yes. You must show your hardcopy bus ticket on the return journey. Only passengers with a valid hardcopy ticket will be allowed to board the bus. If you have lost your ticket, you can purchase a one-way ticket for €5 at the bus.
Please note: payment at the bus is card-only (cash is not accepted).
lost something at the event and would like to get it back. What should I do?
All found items are collected after the festival and will be posted on the event’s Facebook page no later than Wednesday afternoon. If your lost item is listed, you can collect it at the Elevation Events office:
Leidseweg 125, 3533 HC Utrecht. For questions, please contact marketing@elevation-events.com.
I left something in my locker. What should I do?
Items left behind in lockers are collected by the locker provider, Lockerbox. If you forgot something, please fill out the Lost & Found form on the Lockerbox website:
Click here
Lockerbox will contact you directly after you submit the form.
How accessible is the event?
The organization does its utmost to ensure Soenda Festival is accessible for everyone.
A paved path runs throughout the festival grounds, with plastic plates and wooden floors in place. However, not all transitions are completely smooth or without thresholds. A large part of the festival consists of unpaved surfaces, which—depending on the weather—may not be equally accessible for everyone.
Most stages and facilities are generally easy to reach. There are also special provisions, such as a widened entrance and a wheelchair-accessible toilet.
If you are unsure whether attending is possible in your specific case, please email toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com so we can discuss how to accommodate you.
I am currently less mobile. Can I still attend the event?
This depends on your level of mobility. The festival has paved paths, plastic plates, and wooden floors, but not all areas are fully smooth or threshold-free. Many areas are unpaved and may be challenging depending on the weather.
Most stages and facilities are generally accessible. Special provisions include a widened entrance and a wheelchair-accessible toilet.
If you are unsure whether attending is possible in your specific situation, please email toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com, and we will work with you to find a solution.
Is there first aid at the event?
Yes, Soenda Festival has a fully equipped first aid station staffed with medical professionals who normally work in hospitals.
Facilities are comparable to those at an emergency department. Essential medicines and basic supplies, such as paracetamol and plasters, are also available.
Is there a place to pump breast milk at the event?
Yes. You can generally use a room at the first aid station for pumping.
Simply report to the first aid station—no prior notice is required. If the station is busy, you may need to wait or be directed to an alternative space. A refrigerator is available to temporarily store your milk.
Can I bring medication or other medical items to the event?
Yes. You must have a doctor’s note or medication passport and show it at the entrance. Make sure it is clear which medications you are carrying. Inform security during the check, and a medical professional will determine whether it can be brought inside.
For items that need to be kept cold or are difficult to carry or store in a locker, arrangements can usually be made at the first aid station. Please notify info@elevation-events.com beforehand.
I have a special diet. Can I bring my own food?
Only in exceptional cases. It must be a medical diet supported by a doctor’s note, and the required food must not be available at the festival.
If in doubt, contact info@elevation-events.com.
I have mental health concerns. Is it safe for me to attend?
This is a personal decision. You are welcome to attend, but be aware that Soenda Festival is busy and crowded.
There are usually quiet areas where you can take a break. Discuss with people close to you if you are unsure about attending, to help you decide.
I am pregnant. Is it safe to attend?
If you are pregnant, attending is your own responsibility. Alcohol and loud noise may be harmful to unborn children.
Consult your doctor or midwife if unsure about attending.
I have a service dog. Can I bring it to the event?
Yes. A service dog (or similar) is the only animal allowed at the festival. However, attending with a service dog is not recommended.
If you still plan to bring a service dog or have questions, contact toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com.
Are parking tickets available for people with reduced mobility?
Please email toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com to discuss available options.
How accessible is the path from the parking lot to the entrance for people with reduced mobility?
If you use a wheelchair or have severe mobility issues, please contact toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com in advance so we can discuss the best options.
I am sensitive to stimuli (light/sound). Is it safe to attend?
Festivals are generally crowded and stimulating. Light flashes may occur frequently.
The first aid station is located in a relatively quiet area where you can take a break. There is no dedicated low-stimulation space at the festival. Discuss with people close to you if you are unsure about attending.
I have hearing problems. Can I attend the festival?
Visitors are asked to make space at the barriers if someone with hearing difficulties requests it.
This allows them to hold onto the barriers and feel the music vibrations more clearly.
Are elevated platforms available at the stages?
No elevated platforms are available.
From the dance floor, you can experience the light show and audience energy fully.
I am coming with a cargo bike / tricycle / adapted bike. Can I park it near the entrance?
Yes. A reserved space near the bike parking allows you to park as close to the entrance as possible.
From there, it is about a 5-minute walk to the entrance.
Email toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com in advance so we can reserve enough space.
I attended the festival and would like to provide feedback
We welcome your feedback for future editions.
Please email toegankelijkheid@elevation-events.com.
Is food available at the event?
Yes, at Soenda Festival there are plenty of diverse food trucks serving a variety of cuisines.
Which food trucks will be present at the event?
We don’t want to give everything away, but at Soenda Festival you can choose from: fries, snacks, pizza, burgers, wraps, toasted sandwiches, fruit, and sweets. (checken bij Ninon!!)
Are there vegetarian and vegan options available at the event?
Yes, at Soenda Festival every food truck must offer at least one vegetarian item. This way, we hope to encourage visitors to make a conscious choice. For vegan options, you can email info@elevation-events.com.
Are there gluten-free options available at the event?
Yes, the fries are cooked in a separate fryer, making them gluten-free. If you want to know about more options, you can email info@elevation-events.com.
Are cigarettes available at the event?
No, cigarettes are unfortunately not available at Soenda Festival.
Are earplugs available at the event?
Yes, earplugs are available at all bars during Soenda Festival.
What other non-food products are available at the event?
At Soenda Festival, various stands sell non-food products such as Soenda merchandise, sunglasses, jewelry, caps, etc. (Marketing invullen wat we daadwerkelijk verkopen). Check the map for the locations.
The event uses hard cups—how does that work?
At Soenda Festival, all drinks are served in reusable cups or provided in plastic bottles/cans. How does it work? Pay 0.5 coins for your first cup or plastic bottle. When your cup or bottle is empty, return it to the bar when you get a new drink. There, your cup or plastic bottle will be exchanged for a new cup or plastic bottle free of charge. Tired of the cup? Then you can temporarily exchange it for a cup token at the bars. If you want another drink, you can exchange your cup token for a cup or plastic bottle, so you don’t have to pay again.
Why are hard cups being used?
Several studies show that the use of hard cups contributes significantly to a sustainable festival. The use of hard cups saves more than two million disposable cups/bottles per year for our organisation alone.
Can I keep my cup?
Yes, you can, but a cup only becomes sustainable if we can use it again at the next festival. Are you leaving? Then hand in your cup at the bar. With the cup token you receive in return, you can win great prizes!
I have a cup token—what can I do with it?
You can win great prizes with the cup coin. Two days after the festival ends, we will post the numbers of the winning cup coins in the Facebook event, so you will know if you have won a prize.
Where can I submit a question, comment, or suggestion about the sustainability of this event?
You can email these to duurzaamheid@elevation-events.com.
Does the organization monitor the weather?
Yes, Soenda Festival closely monitors the weather forecasts. We are assisted by various weather monitoring centers and will keep you informed in time, advising you on what to do if the weather could affect safety or the flow of the festival.
If it rains during the event, can I stay dry?
At Soenda Festival, there are covered areas available. Together, these areas allow most visitors to stay dry during a rain shower. However, at the busiest times, not everyone will be able to stay completely dry. We therefore recommend bringing a raincoat if rain is likely.
Are ponchos available at the event?
No, ponchos are generally not available, and we expect everyone to bring their own raincoat. This is partly for sustainability reasons.
What kind of shoes are best to wear to the event?
This mainly depends on the weather. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes suitable for dancing. High heels, flip-flops, and bare feet are not advised because the festival grounds have varied surfaces such as grass, asphalt, wooden floors, tent floors, and track plates. These surfaces do not always connect seamlessly. In heavy rain, we do our best to cover as much ground as possible with flooring, but it’s still wise to wear sturdy shoes or boots.
What clothing advice do you give for the event?
The advice is to wear clothing that you feel comfortable in and that suits the weather conditions. Keep in mind:
• Evenings can get chilly, so bring something warm for later in the day.
• If there’s a chance of rain, bring a jacket.
• When the sun is shining, it’s nice to have sunglasses, a hat, or a cap.
• In wet weather, good waterproof shoes can provide extra comfort.
Can I bring sunscreen to the event?
Yes, bringing sunscreen to Soenda Festival is allowed as long as it is a cream/lotion and the container holds less than 100ml. Any form of spray sunscreen is not allowed.
Can I bring a water gun to the event?
No, generally not. Only if temperatures are expected to exceed 28°C, small water guns with a maximum length of 15cm are permitted.
Is free drinking water available at the event?
Yes, free drinking water is available at the toilets. You can also buy drinking water at the bars.
How can I sign up for the event newsletter?
Sign up HERE for the official Soenda newsletter and stay updated on all information and the latest program updates.
Which social media channels does the event use?
Follow Soenda Festival on Instagram and Facebook, or keep an eye on this website. Use #soendafestival and tag us in your stories so we can see them too. We love that!
Are there any apps available for the event?
Yes, during Soenda Festival the APPIC app is active. Here you can find all information such as the festival map, the schedule, and details about food and drinks. Download the APPIC app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Can I become an ambassador?
Yes, you can! If you would like to become an ambassador for Soenda Festival, send an email to marketing@elevation-events.com. We’ll explain how it works.
Are there house rules that apply during the event?
Yes, to make Soenda Festival as enjoyable as possible, a number of house rules have been established. The most common questions about these rules are answered briefly below. The shortened house rules can be found HERE. Want to read the full house rules? They are included in the general terms and conditions, available HERE.
What am I allowed and not allowed to bring to the event?
To keep Soenda Festival safe and enjoyable, certain items are not allowed. This includes glassware, plastic bottles, hydration packs, cans, fireworks, nitrous oxide cartridges, spray cans, drones, umbrellas, selfie sticks, and other items deemed by staff as hazardous or disruptive. Other prohibited items include drugs, (fire)weapons, other dangerous objects or substances, as well as food, (alcoholic) drinks, and pets (except assistance dogs). If illegal items are found, you will be denied access and the police will be notified.
Can I bring a bag to the event?
Yes, small bags are allowed. However, it is recommended to bring only essential items. Large bags are strongly discouraged, as lockers have limited size and large suitcases/bags cannot be stored.
Can I bring my camera or camcorder to the event?
It depends on the device. Small, non-professional cameras and phones are allowed, provided that recordings are for personal use only. Public sharing of images is prohibited. Professional photo and video equipment is only permitted with press accreditation.
Can I bring the battery of my e-bike inside to store it safely?
No, for safety reasons, batteries are not allowed. We advise coming without the battery if you cannot store it safely with your bike. There is no possibility to charge e-bike batteries at the festival.
Are drugs allowed at the event?
No, drugs are not permitted at Soenda Festival, just as in the rest of the Netherlands. Soenda Festival has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, including those tolerated under Dutch law. Possession will result in denied entry or removal from the festival grounds, and the police will be notified.
Are there any dress codes at the event?
No, there are no specific dress codes, but you should appear neat. Wearing football shirts, discriminatory or otherwise offensive clothing, as well as face-covering attire, is prohibited.
I want to advertise or sell something at or around this event—is that allowed?
No, without written permission it is forbidden for third parties to advertise or sell goods/services (including nitrous oxide or food) at or around Soenda Festival.
Is smoking and vaping allowed at the event?
Yes, smoking and vaping are allowed only in outdoor, non-covered areas. Be mindful of other visitors and always dispose of cigarette butts in a bin.
Can I bring my e-cigarette and liquids to the event?
Yes, you may bring one e-cigarette. The associated liquid is allowed only if the container is new and sealed (maximum one per visitor). E-cigarettes, like regular cigarettes, may only be used in outdoor areas.
Can I bring my pet to the event?
No, pets are not allowed (except assistance dogs).
From what age am I allowed to attend the event?
Visitors must be at least 18 years old. ID may be requested, and if you cannot provide it, entry will be denied.
How does the entrance control work at the event?
Upon entry, you will be asked to undergo a voluntary search of yourself and your belongings. You may choose a staff member of the same gender for this check—please stand in the appropriate line. If you refuse, entry will not be permitted.
Can I bring sunscreen to the event?
Yes, bringing sunscreen is allowed if it is a cream or lotion and the container is under 100ml. Spray or aerosol sunscreens are not permitted.
Can I bring a water gun to the event?
No, generally not. Only if temperatures are expected to exceed 28°C, small water guns up to 15cm in length are permitted.
For partying:
Before going to the festival, check the weather forecast and see the tips under the “Weather” section. Make sure not to bring or leave valuable items in your car and be aware of pickpockets. Always follow the instructions of our security staff. In case of an unusual situation, let people at home know via SMS that you are okay.
Sexual harassment:
Sexual violence or harassment is not tolerated at Soenda Festival in any form. If you are harassed or feel threatened, report it to the organization. You can contact any security or first aid staff. They will assist you and contact a manager within the organization who can help further. All security staff are trained and know how to act. Female security personnel are also present. First aid staff are trained to provide support. You can also report online by emailing info@elevation-events.com (not monitored continuously). For criminal behavior, you can also report to the police; the organization can assist you if desired. All reports are treated confidentially. More general info about medical and psychological advice, and how to report, can be found at www.centrumsexueelgeweld.nl.
Use of alcohol and drugs:
Using alcohol and/or drugs carries risks. Be extra cautious when temperatures exceed 20°C. Alcohol and drugs raise body temperature, so dancing for a long time while drinking too little increases the risk of overheating. Drink enough water but not too much: 1–2 glasses per hour. Drinking too much in a short time can lead to water intoxication. Deaths at festivals usually result from overheating or water intoxication caused by alcohol and/or drugs. Be careful, cool off occasionally, watch out for each other, and never leave someone alone. Test your drugs before the festival; testing is not possible on-site. For more info and health risks, visit www.drugsenuitgaan.nland www.unity.nl.
Hearing protection:
Soenda Festival supports the I Love my Ears campaign because we want you to enjoy good music now and in the future. Take care of your ears. For tips on protecting your ears while enjoying music, visit www.ilovemyears.nl. Earplugs are available at all bars at the festival.
Medical assistance:
If you or a friend are feeling unwell, go to the first aid station. Trained staff can help you. Be honest about alcohol or drug use: the better they understand the situation, the better they can help. Confidentiality applies, and first aid staff will not report to the police.
After partying:
Forced or unsafe sex is more common under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Respect each other and see www.sense.info/soas for safe sex tips. Alcohol and/or drugs can also reduce concentration and slow reaction times, putting yourself and others at risk. Stop in time and adjust your mode of transport accordingly. Drink water or isotonic drinks before sleeping to restore hydration.
I have a complaint about the event—where can I submit it?
If you have a complaint, we’re naturally very sorry to hear that! If the complaint cannot wait, send us a private message via Instagram. If you have a complaint afterwards or want to report it later, you can email info@elevation-events.com.
I have a complaint about the security staff, medical personnel, traffic marshal, or another event employee—where can I submit it?
If you have a complaint, we’re very sorry! If it cannot wait, send us a private message via Instagram. If you want to report it later, email info@elevation-events.com. Try to provide clear details about the person involved, such as physical characteristics, the time, and the location.
How is privacy ensured on the event’s website?
This is outlined in our privacy statement. Click HERE for the privacy statement.
Does the website use cookies?
Yes, the Soenda Festival website uses cookies. Click HERE for the cookie policy.
Is there a shuttle bus to and from the event?
Yes, during Soenda Festival there is a shuttle bus.
Where does the shuttle bus run?
The shuttle bus runs between Overvecht Station and the festival grounds. At Overvecht Station, exit towards P+R and Overvecht. In the evening, the bus departs from the same location where it dropped you off in the afternoon. If you’re unsure where that is, follow the signs for the shuttle bus from the festival.
What are the shuttle bus operating hours?
From Overvecht Station to Soenda Festival: 11:30 – 19:30
From Soenda Festival to Overvecht Station: 20:00 – approx. 00:30 (until the last festival visitor has left).
How often does the shuttle bus run?
The shuttle bus runs continuously during Soenda Festival. A bus departs every few minutes. At quieter times, you may have to wait, usually no longer than 20 minutes.
How much does a shuttle bus ticket cost and where can I buy it?
It’s best to buy a ticket online. A return ticket costs €8 (excluding ticket fee). Tickets purchased at the bus cost €10 for a return. Single tickets for the return trip are €5 per ride, available at the bus. Note: payment is card only!
How does it work if I bought an online bus ticket?
Show your ticket at the bus, either printed or on your phone. Once scanned and validated, you’ll receive a hardcopy bus ticket, which allows you to board.
Do I need to keep my bus ticket for the return trip?
Yes, you must show your hardcopy ticket on the way back. Only with this ticket can you board. If lost, you can buy a single ticket at the bus for €5. Card payment only!
Can I buy a ticket at the bus?
Yes, you can buy tickets at the bus. A return ticket costs €10. For faster boarding and a lower price, we recommend buying your ticket online. Card payment only!
Can I buy a single ticket?
Yes, single tickets are only available for the return trip at the bus for €5. Card payment only!
Are there buses from other cities to the event?
No, during Soenda Festival there are no buses from other cities.
Can I come with a privately organized tour bus?
Yes, this is possible. Registration of the bus is mandatory. Fill in THIS FORM. After submission, you will receive a confirmation by Thursday, 28 May, with detailed instructions for both the organizer and the driver. Make sure to read and share this information.
Where can my organized tour bus drop off and pick up visitors?
This information is included in the instructions received after registering the bus. Use Bastionweg as the navigation address. Follow the “touringcar” signage and instructions from traffic controllers.
Can a private tour bus park at the event for a long period?
No, due to limited space, buses must leave immediately after dropping off passengers. After the festival, buses must also depart immediately. Drivers should turn off the engine and music while waiting to respect the neighbors.
How can I reach the event by public transport?
If you want to travel to Soenda Festival by public transport, we recommend going via Overvecht Station. You can reach Overvecht from Utrecht Central Station, which is well connected to the rest of the country by train. From Overvecht Station, shuttle buses go directly to Soenda Festival. Use 9292OV to plan your route.
Until what time can I get home using public transport?
The exact departure time depends on your home location. From Overvecht Station, trains to Utrecht Central run until approximately 01:30. To see the best way to get home from there, consult 9292OV.
Where can I park at the event?
If you are coming by car, use Bastionweg in Utrecht as your navigation address. Follow the first signs for “parking” and obey the instructions of the traffic controllers.
How does it work if I bought a parking ticket online?
If you purchased a parking ticket online, show it to the cashier at the parking lot, either printed or on your phone. Once scanned and validated, you may enter the parking area and park your car.
Can I buy a parking ticket at the lot?
Yes, you can always buy a ticket at the parking lot. A parking ticket costs €20. For faster entry, we recommend buying a ticket online in advance, which is also cheaper. Card payment only!
How much does a parking ticket cost and where can I buy it?
It is best to buy a parking ticket online. The online price is €17.50 (excluding ticket fee). At the parking lot cashier, tickets cost €20. Card payment only!
Can I use a taxi?
Yes, during Soenda Festival there is a special taxi stand where taxis with a Utrecht taxi license can drop you off.
Where can a taxi drop me off?
If you are arriving by taxi, have the driver use Bastionweg in Utrecht as the navigation address. Follow the first signs for “taxi” and obey the instructions of the traffic controllers. Only taxis with a Utrecht taxi license can use the taxi stand. Rideshare services such as Uber, Bolt, or taxis without a Utrecht license must use the kiss & ride / rideshare pick-up point.
Where can a taxi pick me up?
If you want a taxi back home, you don’t need to pre-order one. There are plenty of taxis available at the taxi stand near the festival. Follow the “taxi” signs from the festival. Only licensed taxis are allowed at this stand. If you pre-ordered a taxi or rideshare, it will wait for you at the kiss & ride / rideshare pick-up point.
Where can a pre-booked taxi pick me up?
Pre-booked taxis, as well as Uber, Bolt, and other rideshare services, are directed to the kiss & ride / rideshare pick-up point.
Is the taxi stand free?
Yes, taxis do not need to pay to drop off or pick up passengers at the festival.
Can I be dropped off and/or picked up by someone?
Yes, during Soenda Festival you can be dropped off and picked up at the kiss & ride area.
Where can someone drop me off?
If you are being dropped off at the kiss & ride, have the driver use Kapelweg, Utrecht as the navigation address. Follow the first signs for “kiss & ride” and obey the instructions of the traffic controllers.
Where can someone pick me up?
If you are being picked up at the kiss & ride, tell the driver to use Kapelweg, Utrecht as the navigation address. Follow the first signs for “kiss & ride” and obey the traffic controllers’ instructions. Walk to the kiss & ride area and wait for the driver there.
Is the kiss & ride pick-up/drop-off free?
Yes, neither you nor your driver need to pay to be dropped off or picked up at the kiss & ride.
Can I come to the festival by bike, scooter, or moped?
Yes, you can come to Soenda Festival by bike, scooter, or moped. In fact, we even recommend it!
Where is the bike parking located?
If you are coming by bike, scooter, or moped, navigate to Gageldijk 4F, Utrecht. Follow the first yellow signs you see for “bike parking” and obey the instructions of the traffic controllers.
Is the bike parking monitored?
No, the bike parking is not guarded, but supervision is present.
Can I lock my bike to the bike racks?
No, never lock your bike to the bike racks.
Is the bike parking free?
Yes, bike parking is free. We encourage everyone to come by bike!
Can I walk to the festival?
Yes, you can, and we even recommend it! If you’re walking, follow Gageldijk 4F from Utrecht and Gageldijk 1 from Groenekan. From the first yellow signs you see, follow the directions and obey the instructions of the traffic controllers.
Download neighborhood notice
Via the link below, you can download the neighborhood notice that is distributed a few weeks before the festival. [Download neighborhood notice]
What is (event name)?
Soenda Festival is an electronic music festival with local, regional, national, and international appeal, attracting around 25,000 visitors aged 18+ annually. The first edition took place in 2009 at SOIA (Strand Oog in Al). Since 2011, the festival has been held at its current location in the Ruigenhoekse Polder. The upcoming edition is the 15th edition of the festival.
Visitors come for performances by national and international artists. Soenda Festival provides space for talented young artists as well as established international names. Besides the performances, there are food trucks, art and architectural installations, and spectacular decorations and light shows.
Where does (event name) take place?
Soenda Festival takes place in the Ruigenhoekse Polder, part of Noorderpark in the northern part of Utrecht. The area is designated for recreation, which includes events. A map is available showing which parts of the terrain will be used or closed during the festival days. [View map]
When does (event name) take place?
Soenda Festival will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 12:00 to 23:00.
When is the setup and teardown of (event name)?
Setup and teardown occur between Monday, May 18, and Friday, June 5. After June 5, minor restoration work may still take place. Key dates:
• May 18–21: Initial setup, including laying mats and pontoons, building bridges and tents. Some areas may be temporarily closed for safety, but pedestrians can still pass.
• May 22–June 2: Festival grounds fully closed. Do not enter even if temporary access appears open.
• May 30: During the festival, some surrounding areas (parking, south path, northwest corner) will be restricted.
• June 3–5: Teardown of infrastructure. Small parts may be temporarily closed for safety, but pedestrian access is allowed.
• After June 5: Minor restoration may take place, such as replacing facilities or reseeding areas.
Who organizes (event name)?
Soenda Festival is organized by Soenda BV, part of Elevation Events, founded in 2009. They handle concept development, organization, and production of festivals for young adults in Utrecht and surrounding areas.
How do visitors get to (event name)?
Visitors arrive in various ways. The website and social media encourage traveling by bike or public transport. A dedicated bike parking area is available at Gageldijk. Shuttle buses run from Station Overvecht.
Can I still use the area during setup and teardown?
Yes, parts of Ruigenhoekse Polder remain accessible to walkers. Some areas may be temporarily closed for safety (see map). From May 22–June 2, some paths are fully closed with detours provided. During the festival (May 30), some areas around the festival are restricted.
Are there closures during setup and teardown?
Yes, closures occur within Ruigenhoekse Polder for safety. Detours are provided, and residents/companies receive access letters. On the festival day, certain roads and paths will be partially or fully closed (see map for details).
Will my home or business remain accessible?
Yes, all homes and businesses remain accessible. Residents within closed areas receive a letter for access at traffic posts.
Will public transport be rerouted?
No, public transport will continue to operate regularly and has access at traffic posts.
Are surrounding businesses open during the festival?
Yes, most businesses near Ruigenhoekse Polder remain open and accessible. Check their websites for current opening hours.
When can sound be produced?
Sound can be produced during the festival (12:00–23:00) and one hour prior. On May 29, sound checks can take place from 16:00–20:00.
Are sound measurements and controls in place?
Yes, a specialized bureau places measurement points around the venue, including stages, and the Environmental Service of Utrecht monitors sound.
What does the organization do to limit noise?
A sound engineer prepares a sound plan, directing speakers toward areas with fewer residents and using advanced systems to minimize off-site noise.
What if I still experience noise disturbance?
External factors like wind, temperature, and humidity can affect noise. Contact the organization at 030-2433717or info@elevation-events.com for assistance.
Is festival waste cleaned up?
Yes, a professional cleaning company ensures the festival site and surrounding access routes are cleaned during and after the festival.
Is nature and wildlife protected?
Yes, the organization follows flora and fauna laws, works with ecologists, and implements measures to avoid sensitive areas.
Will fireworks be used?
No, fireworks are not used during Soenda Festival.
Does (event name) focus on sustainability?
Yes, Soenda Festival emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility. Through the Local Legacy program, funds are invested in eco-friendly projects, such as planting over 500 m² of pollinator-friendly areas. Questions can be emailed to duurzaamheid@elevation-events.com.
What is done for safety?
The organization has a safety team including crowd management specialists, medical staff, mobility experts, security personnel, and a fire safety advisor. They coordinate with local authorities, police, fire department, and emergency services to implement a safety plan.
Where can I ask questions?
The organization is reachable via info@elevation-events.com or by phone at 030-2433717, including during the festival.