Illustration of a light display scene (De Grootste Kerstboom (The Tallest Christmas Tree))
Christmas Lights

De Grootste Kerstboom (The Tallest Christmas Tree)

Visitors gather at the Podium in IJsselstein to witness the Gerbrandytoren transformed into the largest Christmas tree in the Netherlands. The 366.80-meter-tall transmission tower is illuminated by 120 LED lamps alongside special top and base lighting. The gathering offers an atmospheric winter celebration featuring dedicated programming for children.

What to Expect

Lighting of the 366.8-meter tower decorated with 120 LED lamps.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Stichting Kerstboom

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ ⚪ (3/5)

Best For

People who enjoy spectacular christmas lights

Vibe

Festive and awe-inspiring

Energy Level

Low

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

het Podium
Podiumweg 2, 3401 BL IJsselstein, Netherlands
IJsselstein
3400 AE

Tips & Advice

  • Bring the kids this year, because the lighting has a special children's program and an extra wintry atmosphere planned for the evening.
  • Note the earlier timing: the lighting is on the last Saturday of November this year, not the usual Saturday after Sinterklaas's birthday.
  • Dress warmly for standing outdoors on the Podium grounds after dark while you wait for the tower to light up.
  • Sign up as a donor before the lighting for a chance to be invited as a guest or to the special donors' gathering in the tower.

Special Events & Promotions

  • The 28th lighting moves to the last Saturday of November this year, instead of the usual first Saturday after Sinterklaas's birthday.
  • This year's event has a special children's program and an extra wintry atmosphere.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the lighting suitable for children?

Yes. The lighting is open to residents and visitors of all ages. This year it has a special children's program and an extra wintry feel.

How big is the tree?

The tree is the Gerbrandytoren, a transmission tower that is exactly 366.80 meters tall. It is hung with 120 LED lamps, plus lights at the top and the base.

How long has this tradition been going?

The tower was first lit in 1992. The foundation has kept the tradition going for more than 30 years, and this year is the 28th lighting.

How can I support the tree?

You can donate once, become a regular donor, sponsor it as a business, or lease a lamp. Donors also have a chance to be invited as guests to the lighting or to a special donors' gathering in the tower.

Tags

holiday light displayscommunity celebrationholiday traditionseasonal activitiesfree eventfamily friendlyfestive decorationsholiday seasonfestive eventslight displays

More Christmas Events Near IJsselstein

More Christmas Events near Utrecht

Open the map around Utrecht →

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team