IFIKZ 2026: MaakMeeFestival

| Sarah Vermoolen | |

IFIKZ MaakMeeFestival creatively highlights Zaans industry. The annual festival immerses young and old in a world of innovation, history and creativity.

The paper that took the world by storm is coming back to life this autumn

We use it every day. We write on it, draw on it, and often throw it away without a second thought. Just have a look in the wastepaper bin. Paper is so commonplace that we hardly ever stop to think about the story behind it.

Nevertheless, a significant part of that story began in the Zaan region.

Centuries ago, dozens of paper mills in the Zaan region were powered by the wind. Using craftsmanship, water and wind power, they produced paper that was renowned far beyond the Netherlands for its quality. It found its way onto composers’ music stands, into printing works and, ultimately, even onto documents that changed the course of world history. The Zaan region grew to become an international centre for the paper, printing and graphic arts industries. A story you can be proud of.

History only becomes truly interesting when you can experience it for yourself. That’s why we have the IFIKZ MaakMeeFestival, which celebrates the Zaan region’s industrial heritage. From 10 to 16 October, the Zaan region will be transformed into a place where you can not only hear about the power of Zaan paper, but also see it, feel it and experience it for yourself.

Come and listen to stories about paper mills and papermakers, try your hand at working with special types of paper, learn how to bind a booklet or experiment with printing techniques. Step aboard a theatrical PAPIER boat trip past places where the history of paper is still visible. Take a look behind the scenes at companies that still work with paper and cardboard today.

It is precisely this combination that makes the festival so special. It’s not just about the past, but also about the present. About designers, artists, creators and entrepreneurs who demonstrate just how many possibilities paper still offers. From delicate works of art to sturdy packaging materials. From handmade paper to innovative applications that are used all over the world every day.

 

 

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There’s plenty for children to enjoy too. Together with artists, they can make their own creations, help build a large artwork out of paper, or discover through play just how versatile this seemingly simple material really is.

That might well be the biggest surprise of the festival. You come for a fun day out, but you go home seeing things in a different light. Because suddenly you realise that behind a sheet of paper lies a world of inventions, craftsmanship, creativity and entrepreneurship.

The IFIKZ MaakMeeFestival invites you to discover that world for yourself. Not from a book, but by experiencing it for yourself.

From 10 to 16 October, the Zaan region will be celebrating ‘The Power of Zaan Paper’.

Events during IFIKZ

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