This subsidy makes it possible to organize events that contribute to a vibrant city, connection, talent development, economic impact, and a positive (inter)national image. The scheme is separate from budgets for small-scale events, multi-year subsidies, Sinterklaas parades, carnival, various evening four-day marches, and student events.
Alderman Maarten van Asten (Events): “Tilburg is a city with room for new ideas and where well-known events can continue to develop. With the selection of these 26 events, we invest in creativity, talent, and celebrating together. This way, we ensure that Tilburg keeps buzzing, for everyone.”
Varied Offerings
The events receiving subsidies vary from cultural festivals such as Murf/Murw, sports events like the Dutch Figure Skating Championship & Challenge Cup, activities for the whole family such as the Tilburg Winter Circus, and innovative events like Shred or Sink and Illustrada. Among the 26 subsidized events are both free and paid events.
New Initiatives in 2026
The municipality also encourages new ideas. Two notable newcomers receive subsidies for the first time in 2026: Festival der Mislukking, a free multi-day festival focused on young talent, experimentation, and creativity. This event offers space to learn and try out. Another newcomer is the Tilburgse Feesten, an event where squares in the city center collaborate on a festive program with music, food, and artists from both the region and nationwide.
Trusted events also receive support. Hap Stap receives subsidies again after the festival successfully continued in 2025 following a period of financial uncertainty. Additionally, there is attention for sports: the Parkour Knock-Out Champs receive support for freerun battles and workshops for a broad audience.
Multi-Year Subsidies
Besides one-time subsidies, 718,448 euros are available in 2026 for 11 multi-year subsidies. This money goes, among others, to Roadburn, Festival Circolo, and the Meimarkt.
Event Calendar
A complete overview of all events in 2026 will be available from the end of December on the page Event Calendar.
