On Saturday, October 4, 2025, a special event took place in Zeeland that brought together young minds and curious souls from across the region: Zeeland Science Day. This day, part of the national Science Weekend, has now become a regular and beloved tradition in Middelburg and the surrounding area. With growing visitor numbers and an increasingly varied program, Science Day offers a unique opportunity for children and young people between the ages of 8 and 14 to become acquainted with the fascinating world of science and technology in an accessible and interactive way.
A rich history and growing popularity
Science Day in Zeeland has been organized for many years at the ZB Library of Zeeland in Middelburg. This location, known for its extensive collection and its central role in Zeeland’s knowledge and culture sector, is the perfect setting for a day full of discoveries. Last year’s edition welcomed no fewer than 3,162 visitors, an impressive number that underlines the great interest and involvement among young people and their parents. The program and activities are always highly appreciated by visitors, making the day a highlight in the regional science calendar.
Its growing popularity has led to the addition of an extra location two years ago: the Joint Research Center Zeeland (JRCZ). Located a stone’s throw away from the ZB, this building is not only a unique example of modern scientific research in Zeeland, but also in the whole of the Netherlands. The JRCZ has laboratories for engineering, chemistry, ecology, and a data lab, all outfitted with advanced equipment. The programming here is provided by HZ University of Applied Sciences, giving visitors the opportunity to discover how science is applied and developed in practice. Thanks to the special city train, visitors were able to commute between the ZB and the JRCZ throughout the day, allowing them to experience a wide range of activities without losing any time.
A national collaboration with local power
In addition to the activities in Middelburg, programs are also taking place in Goes and Terneuzen, organized by the local libraries. This regional approach ensures that Science Day remains accessible and attractive to a broad group of young people from all over Zeeland. A few years ago, the day was enhanced by the arrival of NEMO, the well-known science museum from Amsterdam, which comes to Zeeland every year with a big, free activity. This collaboration makes it possible for thousands of young people to get to know science in a fun and inspiring way.
What makes this national and regional collaboration extra special is that Zeeland actively promotes itself on the national science network. Thanks to its innovative programs and involvement in major initiatives, the region is increasingly putting itself on the map within the national science and education sector.
A day full of activities and discoveries
Science Day 2025 in Zeeland was a great success. A total of 3,222 people visited the various locations, 2,222 of them at the ZB and 1,000 at the JRCZ. This represents an increase of 60 visitors compared to last year, a clear indication that interest in science and technology among young people in Zeeland continues to grow. The day offered a wide range of activities, ranging from interactive experiments and workshops to demonstrations and lectures by scientists and experts.
For younger visitors, there were countless playful and educational activities. For example, they could participate in experiments that show how chemical reactions work, or they could discover how robots and autonomous vehicles function. In the JRCZ data lab, they could learn about the world of data analysis and programming, while all kinds of creative and technical workshops were organized in the ZB Library. In addition, there were information stands from local companies and organizations committed to innovation and sustainable development.
A special part of the day was the presence of NEMO, which had a large and attractive stand where children and young people could discover the world of science and technology. NEMO’s interactive activities and demonstrations were a highlight of the day for many, and the free entry meant that everyone could take part.
A day full of inspiration and enthusiasm
Zeeland Science Day is more than just a day full of activities; it is a day that inspires and motivates young people to look beyond their everyday surroundings. It offers an accessible introduction to complex topics and shows that science is not just for professors and researchers, but above all for anyone who is curious and wants to learn.
The positive reactions on social media underscore this. Visitors and parents share their experiences and enthusiasm, and the aftermovie, which will be released soon, gives a good impression of the lively atmosphere and the many discoveries that took place. The organizers look back with pride on a day that once again proved how powerful and connecting science can be.
Future plans and expectations
The growing interest in Zeeland Science Day has prompted the organizers to think about the future. They are already looking at ways to further expand the program and add even more innovative activities. Collaboration with national organizations such as NEMO and HZ University of Applied Sciences will also be further strengthened, so that Zeeland can continue to distinguish itself as a region where science and technology take center stage.
In addition, consideration is being given to involving schools and educational institutions, so that interest in science is stimulated and established at an early age. The aim is to make Science Day function even more as a bridge between education, business, and research, thereby contributing to a future-proof region full of young talent.
Conclusion
Science Day Zeeland 2025 was once again a great success and an inspiring example of how science can be presented to the youngest generations in an accessible and playful way. With a record number of visitors, a wide range of activities, and strong regional and national cooperation, this day proves that Zeeland is a region where curiosity and innovation go hand in hand.
With the enthusiastic responses and growing interest, the organizers are looking forward to future editions with confidence. Because one thing is certain: the curiosity of young people is the driving force behind a future in which science and technology will continue to play a central role. And it all starts at Zeeland Science Day.
The Hurgronje Family Fund made a financial contribution to the realization of this day.
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