Christmas in MergelRijk is a magical Christmas event held in Valkenburg’s most beautiful cave from 13 November to 3 January.
Opening hours:
PLEASE NOTE: You cannot enter after 3.00 pm. On Saturdays, entry is permitted until 4.00 pm.
Mon–Fri: 10.30–16.30
Saturdays: 9.30–17.30
Sundays: 10.00–16.30
Exceptions:
21–24 December + 27–30 December: 10.00–16.30
25 and 26 December and 31 December to 3 January: 11.00–16.30
All the activities on offer at MergelRijk are included!
The Sand Wizard is known for creating beautifully drawn works of art by using sand. Marl sand in this case. In his film, The Sand Wizard tells the Christmas story, with the sand drawings developing and transforming into different scenes that bring the magic of Christmas to life.
This visual spectacle is accompanied by atmospheric music, making it even more enchanting.
During Christmas in MergelRijk, the cave is also the setting for Europe's longest Christmas diorama. In the diorama, you will see small, three-dimensional scenes depicting the biblical Christmas story. It is decorated with handmade figurines, miniatures, and great attention to detail.
The diorama is not only beautiful to admire, but it invites you to take a moment to contemplate the details and creativity put into it.
At the Cave Workshop, you can make your own Christmas decorations, such as a Christmas arrangement or Christmas tree made of marl, for free. This is a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit while creating your own handmade souvenir. The Cave Workshop offers a unique experience as it is located in the marl caves, creating a special setting and magical atmosphere.
Some 3D cave paintings are impressively presented, bringing the Christmas theme to life. The paintings are made in such a way that, through the use of perspective, they give a 3D effect. This means you can experience the artworks in a way that almost seems to "jump" out of the walls and surroundings. You will see scenes typical of the Christmas season, such as a live snowman, a winter ski jump and the Christmas elves' warehouse, in a unique, optically stunning 3D form.
