Explore Dutch democracy: House of Representatives opens for public open day on 11 April
Ever wondered what happens inside the Dutch House of Representatives? On 11 April, you can explore the historic building, meet MPs, and join interactive tours and quizzes. A unique chance to experience democracy up close—no registration needed!
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 11 April 2026 |
| Time | 11:00 – 16:00 |
| Location | House of Representatives, Prinses Irenepad 1, The Hague |
| Activities | Tours, exhibitions, democratic quiz, children’s treasure hunt, MP meet-and-greet |
| Special Guest | Journalist Jelle Brandt Corstius (lecture on democracy) |
| Entrance Requirements | Valid ID for visitors aged 14+ |
| Transport | Free shuttle bus from Hofvijver; 2-minute walk from Den Haag Centraal |
The House of Representatives is the lower house of the Dutch parliament, responsible for debating and passing legislation. It plays a central role in shaping national policies and ensuring democratic accountability. Events like this open day aim to increase public engagement with government processes.
Your coffee = our fuel ☕
From local to national, everything in one place. That's all very nice and handy, but our coffee supply is running low.
Read the full translated article below
House of Representatives opens doors on 11 April
Would you like to see the blue parliamentary seats in person? The House of Representatives will open its doors to the public on Saturday, 11 April, from 11:00 to 16:00.
During the open day, there will be plenty to do for children, young people, and adults. You can visit the exhibition 'This is the House of Representatives' or 'The roots of the House of Representatives elections', take a seat in the public gallery, take a seat selfie, or go on an exploration tour. There are two themed treasure hunts: history and architecture, and art in the parliamentary building. In addition, you can participate in various activities:
Democratic tours
Throughout the day, there will be democratic tours starting from different locations. Together with your group, by democratic decision, you will determine which way to go. You will learn about the House of Representatives, democracy, the building, its history, and its art. Parliamentary staff will guide the tours.
Coffee and tea at the Second Table
At the Second Table in the Statenzaal (States Hall), you can enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or something else with members of parliament and parliamentary staff. A great opportunity to start a conversation. For example, to discuss what it's like to work at the House of Representatives.
Democratic quiz: Is that allowed?!
Join the quiz about laws and regulations in the Netherlands. What is allowed and what is not? Through this interactive quiz, you will discover why we have these laws and regulations, in which situations they apply, and when they might even be contradictory.
Parliamentary lecture by Jelle Brandt Corstius
What is it like to live and work in a country without democracy? And what developments do we see in countries where democracy is sliding into dictatorship? In a special parliamentary lecture, journalist and programme maker Jelle Brandt Corstius will share more about this. He lived in Russia for many years. More information or to register in advance? Visit tweedekamer.nl/kamercollege.
Children's activities
Discover the House of Representatives with a special children's treasure hunt, follow the children's tour, and create your own parliamentary artwork.
Practical information
The entrance to the House of Representatives is at Prinses Irenepad 1. This is a two-minute walk from Den Haag Centraal. There is also a (free) shuttle bus between the House of Representatives and the Hofvijver (intersection of Lange Vijverberg and Korte Vijverberg). Registration for the open day is not required. Visitors aged 14 and over must be able to present a valid ID after the security check.