Before I start telling about how we celebrate the arrival of the new herring in Groningen, I will have to tell you about my personal experience with herring. 

My First Encounter with Herring

As a teenager, I had a part-time job at a fish shop in Coevorden, called Piet Korf. I started around 7 in the morning and was off around 6:30 in the evening. We carried buckets of ice, and I sold many packages of herring, kibbeling, and various types of fresh and fried fish or fish snacks platters.

I can still vividly remember how I packed the herrings; it’s a skill I could pick up again instantly! A lot of Germans came to buy herring, stockfish, and kibbeling. And almost everything was paid in cash back then! At Vishandel Piet Korf, I learned to do mental arithmetic perfectly.

My Favorite Fish

Cod, butterfish, and shrimp were my favorites. As long as it wasn’t herring ;-)
At noon, we always had a warm meal (bami with satay) at the Korf family. I have fond memories of it. Although I wasn’t crazy about herring! In the evening, I would shower for an hour and scrub my hands clean with lemon juice and a hard nail brush. At the disco, where I spent all my hard-earned money in one evening, I always felt like I still smelled like fish. Hahaha! But you have to do what it takes to earn your money!

My Second Encounter with Herring

For many years, I consciously avoided contact with herring. The smell, the texture. Herring and I were not friends. But when my beloved got sick and had a very sore mouth from chemo, I couldn’t avoid it. Other patients also complained about it. I got herring for him and for the whole ward! Soft and it didn’t irritate him. And herring is of course healthy. In the hospital room of the oncology department, everyone was affected and thus our first herring party at UMCG was born! Even from that time, I have good memories. It just goes to show.

How Herring and I Became Friends

Only a few years ago did I finally make peace with herring when we went camping with a group of friends. Our friend Babet (check out her Instagram BabetKookt) brought beautifully presented pieces of herring with rye bread. She brought all sorts of delicious things because she loves food and cooking! I didn’t want to disappoint anyone and spoil this herring party right away. And what do you know?! I liked it. That’s when I was won over for good.

Origin and Tradition of the Herring Parties

The tradition of celebrating the new herring goes back a long way in Dutch history. Herring is a major pillar of Dutch cuisine and culture, and the arrival of the Hollandse Nieuwe is a moment of national pride. The Herring Party is not only a culinary celebration but also a social event where people come together to network and enjoy the tastiest herring.

The Hollandse Nieuwe

The herring must meet strict criteria to be classified as Hollandse Nieuwe. The fish are caught from mid-May to the end of June when the herring has reached a fat content of at least 16%. After the catch, the herring is immediately gutted, salted, and frozen to maintain its taste and quality. The first barrels of Hollandse Nieuwe are often auctioned for charity, marking a festive start to the herring season.

The Herring Party as a Social Event

Food connects us as humans, that much is clear. A typical Herring Party is organized by companies, clubs, or associations and takes place at various locations, ranging from beach pavilions to chic halls. Guests are welcomed with freshly cut herring, often served with traditional garnishes like onions and pickles. In addition to herring, other snacks and drinks may also be offered, such as jenever, which pairs perfectly with the taste of herring. Besides enjoying the culinary delights, the Herring Party offers an excellent opportunity to network and socialize. For many companies, this is an important event to strengthen relationships with customers, partners, and colleagues. The informal and festive atmosphere makes it easy to make contacts and exchange ideas.

The Groninger Haring Party at De Rietschans by Martinibusiness

In Groningen, a herring party also takes place, and this will be at De Rietschans in Haren on Saturday. The organization is in the hands of Martinibusiness but there are many companies that help make it possible. You can purchase a ticket, but there are also tickets that include further participation or sponsoring.

De Rietschans is of course a beautiful location on the Paterswoldsemeer. So, if you love herring and socializing and networking, then this is your event!