The 63rd Tong Tong Fair continues to be a vibrant event that offers a unique perspective on Indian culture and heritage.
The Tong Tong Fair, one of the largest Eurasian fairs in the world, kicked off this week with an official opening by the mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen. The 63rd edition of this illustrious event, which will run until September 10 this year, will take place on the Malieveld and attracts thousands of visitors every year. In his enthusiastic opening speech, mayor Jan van Zanen praised the organization for their pioneering work in the transfer of Indisch heritage. “This event is an essential platform for sharing and celebrating Indian culture and history,” said van Zanen.
Particular attention was paid to the exhibition 'Dispossessed', which focuses on the theme of slavery in the Indonesian archipelago. As this year is a Slavery Remembrance Year, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore this often underexposed history. After the official opening, the mayor visited the stand of Warung Tamalinda. This year marks the 50th participation of this stand, making it the oldest participant of the Tong Tong Fair. Mayor of Zanen congratulated the founder Luc Leihitu and his children Omar and Belinda, who now run the stand.
The nearest parking garage under the Malieveld is not equipped with a lift, which makes it difficult for wheelchair users and others with limited mobility to reach the event site.
Depending on the day you want to visit the Tong Tong Fair, the price of an entrance ticket varies. The Malieveld is about a 5-minute walk from Central Station, with a wide promenade connecting the station and the Malieveld.
Park
Parking can be a challenge at major events such as the Tong Tong Fair, and this is even more so for people with disabilities. Although Malieveld is close to Central Station and easily accessible by public transport, it can be more complex for disabled people to get there. Since 2019, Staatsbosbeheer, the owner of the Malieveld, no longer allows parking on the field itself. This prohibition also applies to people with disabilities, which means that they must turn to the surrounding car parks.
The nearest parking garage under the Malieveld is not equipped with a lift, which makes it difficult for wheelchair users and others with limited mobility to reach the event site. In addition, it is not clearly indicated where there are parking spaces that are adapted for the disabled.
Another option is to park outside The Hague, such as at P+R Hoornwijck. From this parking garage you can take tram 15 to the center of The Hague. However, the distance of 260 meters between the car park and the tram stop can also be problematic for people with reduced mobility. For those unable to use the regular parking facilities, there is the option of taking a taxi. You can order a taxi at the information desk on site, although this is a more expensive option.
Depending on the day you want to visit the Tong Tong Fair, the price of an entrance ticket varies.
point of interest
The current situation highlights the need for more accessible parking options at major public events such as the Tong Tong Fair. It is essential that the needs of visitors with reduced mobility are taken into account. Nevertheless, the 63rd Tong Tong Fair remains a vibrant event that offers a unique perspective on Indian culture and heritage. With this year's special focus on the history of slavery in the Indonesian archipelago, it provides a deeper layer of meaning and importance.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience a piece of this rich culture. The event will run until September 10, so there's still time to find out for yourself.
