The traditional bonfire in Floradorp during New Year’s has faced numerous challenges over the years, with incidents accompanying its existence. The idea of not having a bonfire is a more recent development.
- Fire in Floradorp is a tradition.
- Mayor Halsema called it 'our own folk festival'.
- Permission was granted nine days before New Year's.
- Residents ignited the fire despite a ban.
- Approval for 2023/2024 New Year's fire was granted.
- It was the last legal bonfire on New Year's Eve.
Six years ago, in 2019, the municipality had a more positive stance towards the celebration. Mayor Halsema referred to the Christmas tree burning as “our own folk festival” and expressed her intention to attend.
In the following years, the bonfire faced increasing uncertainty. In 2021 and 2022, the celebration was canceled due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. In 2023, the municipality revoked permission at the last moment due to safety concerns from strong winds.
Despite the ban, residents ignited the bonfire they had started building, leading to frustration from Mayor Halsema. An investigation concluded that the municipality should have made an earlier decision regarding the event.
Later in 2023, permission was granted for the New Year’s celebration of 2023/2024, allowing a legal bonfire to take place. This would be the last time the municipality allowed it on New Year’s Eve.
Originally reported by www.at5.nl as “Vreugdevuur stond afgelopen jaren vaker op losse schroeven, nu is einde definitief” on 2025-09-23 19:52:00.
