Autumn & Book Fun in Hartje Gorcum - 18 October 2025
On Saturday 18 October, the city centre of Gorinchem will turn into a paradise for book lovers. During Autumn & Book Fun, everything revolves around stories - exciting, cheerful, moving and tasty. Well-known authors will come to town for signing sessions, interviews and performances. In addition, local authors, poets and surprising acts will add to the atmosphere in Hartje Gorcum.
From thrillers to children's books, cookery to poetry: it will be a day full of inspiration for young and old.
Meet top authors
During Autumn & Book Fun, you can meet great names in Dutch literature.
-
Esther Verhoef, one of the Netherlands' most popular thriller writers, is signing her books at several locations.
-
Ted van Lieshout, known from Farmer Boris, gives a cheerful performance in the Grote Kerk. Afterwards, you can take a photo with the famous red tractor.
-
Annet Schaap, winner of the Gouden Griffel, presents her latest book Krekel in the Library.
-
Vanja van der Leeden, cookbook author and winner of the Golden Cookbook, is signing her latest title Italopop at various catering outlets.
-
Jan Dirk van den Burg and Jan van Mersbergen will also be present to sign their books.
Check out the full schedule to meet your favourite author.
Local writers in the spotlight
Not only well-known names are coming to Gorinchem - local writers are also given a stage. At Ayo, Jip Lunchroom and the HEMA, you can meet home-grown talent.
Esmay Usmany will sign her work and write a unique poem especially for visitors. You can also meet authors such as Annemiek de Groot, Mérie van der Rijt, Birgit Berg, Corine Koek-Maasdam, Erik van Tilborg, Sjaak Kouwenhoven and Marijn van den Berge.
Performances for young and old
Besides book signings, there will also be two special book screenings:
-
Boer Boris - a cheerful performance for all ages by Ted van Lieshout in the Grote Kerk (start 14:00).
-
Cricket - the new story by Annet Schaap for children aged 10 and above in the Library (start 3pm).
Poetry, podcasts and street performances
Throughout the city centre you will encounter surprises. Poets Martin Rensen and Naomi Madern recite their work, the Zinzoekers provide unexpected encounters and you can even witness a live podcast recording. Farmer Boris himself will also make an appearance in the city with a red tractor.
For the youngest visitors, there is also a scavenger hunt: 'Are you following me? Find the blackbird and the mouse'. These animals have hidden in the shop windows of shops in Hartje Gorcum. If you look carefully, you will discover the best places in town.
