FruitCorse (Parade) and Appelpop Music Festival

Wietse and I travelled by train to the neighboring town, Tiel for a Fruit Parade and Music Festival. I did not know what to expect other than what I was told; it is the area's largest event. It was fun travelling by train with Wietse. It brought back many memories of when I was studying abroad. Now, I have one of my own Europeans with me!

Upon arriving, the city of Tiel swarmed with people. They lined the streets along with numerous street vendors. The parade first began with the children's "floats". I learned of the children's hero, flipje - he is made from jelly/jam. There were many participants from all over; Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, etc.

When the adult portion of the parade began, I was in utter amazement at the size of these things- And all made of fruit and vegetables. Each and every last inch was covered. This year was the 49th year and I learned why it had been around for so many years. Later on in the year they do a "flower parade" as well.

After the parade ended, we walked to the city centrum and ate kipling. It is a typical Dutch fish and was very delicious. Next stop, Appelpop Music festival. When we arrived to the venue, I stopped at the WC (Water closet, aka toilet). For a free music festival, these were the cleanest toilets I have been in. Thais gave me even more of a reason to drink a lot of beer. And that I did. There were 3 stages set up from alternative music to hard rock. The band Milow was playing and I recognized the song (Ayo Technology- Song of the Week). Wietse and I relaxed on the grass off to the side and did a lot of people-watching. I didnt realize that there were many grunge/black makeup and chain wearing people in the Netherlands. I am pretty sure this was "their'' event of the year. After 5 beers (that contain a higher alcohol content than in the US), I ordered frites and mayonnaise. This may sound un-appealing to Americans, but the mayonnaise here is unreal and Much different. This will be on the To Do list for all visitors!