POPPODIUM BOERDERIJ CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF MUSIC HISTORY
In 2025, Poppodium Boerderij will be 50 years old, and we're celebrating big time! For half a century, the Boerderij has been the beating heart of live music in Zoetermeer and far beyond. From a squatted farm where you used to go and see a band with friends on Friday nights to a professional pop venue where you can now attend around 120 shows a year with 750 other music fans - our journey is a story of passion, music and unforgettable memories. The anniversary year will be celebrated in various ways, with great concerts of course, but also iconic nights from back then and a real documentary.
FROM SQUAT TO INTERNATIONAL POP VENUE
It all started in the 1970s, when the Boerderij opened its doors in a squat on the Voorweg. A place where music and culture lovers came together to enjoy performances, art and each other. A second home for many young people from Zoetermeer. It was a time of experimentation, freedom and creativity. De Boerderij quickly grew into a popular location for both local and international artists. The first legendary shows took place here, which laid the foundation for the pop venue as we know it today.
VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF THE BOERDERIJ
Pop venue Boerderij would not be what it is today without the dedication of our large group of volunteers. For 50 years, they have worked tirelessly to make every show a success. From guiding artists to welcoming visitors. Their enthusiasm and commitment form the foundation of the Boerderij family.
A NEW FUTURE
Even now, after 50 years, Poppodium Boerderij remains the place to be for fans of live music. We look ahead to the future, with new artists, young talent and innovative projects and to a new and future-proof building. Whether you are a loyal visitor who wants to reminisce, a volunteer from the very beginning or are experiencing a concert for the first time, we cordially invite you to celebrate this anniversary year with us.
Come and experience 50 years of Boerderij – 50 years of music, passion and unforgettable moments!
DOCUMENTARY
Saturday 24 May 2025
The highlight of the anniversary year is our own documentary. Together with Zoetermeer resident Marc Waltman from Boegbeeld Videoproducties, we will take you on a journey through the story of half a century of Boerderij. A trip down memory lane. The documentary will premiere on May 23 and on May 24, when it is our actual birthday, the film will be open to the public. Tickets for “50 years of Poppodium Boerderij” will go on sale soon.
Visit our special exhibition before or after the film. View the unique collection of photos, posters and memorabilia and come and reminisce on our balcony!
ANNIVERSARY CONCERTS
The entire year is dedicated to our 50th anniversary, so we are going all out. The program includes a whole series of anniversary concerts. You can see the list below. Keep checking back regularly because it will be augmented during the year. The concerts in our program are labeled with the 50 icon. During each anniversary concert we raffle a Boerderij goodie bag among our visitors, because birthday boys/girls treat others!
Colin Blunstone
Saturday 19 April 2025
Simon Phillips - Protocol V
Sunday 4 May 2025
Arena
Saturday 31 May 2025
Glenn Hughes - The Chosen Years
Wednesday 3 september 2025
Focus
Satuday 27 september 2025
Walter Trout
Friday 28 November 2025
MEET ME AFTER 50 YEARS
Friday 4 July 2025
Did you also come to Meet Me every month when you were little? Meet Me started in the old Boerderij with barriers in front of the cash register, a line all the way to the bridge and not forgetting: DJs Edwin and Jeroen. The Meet Me at the Midnight Hour was one of the most popular dance parties in Zoetermeer and the surrounding area for years. Meet Me made a comeback in 2013, 2015 and 2017. For our anniversary, Meet Me is returning and you can dance like you used to at the Boerderij. Meet old acquaintances and reminisce with DJs Edwin and Jeroen!
PROGDREAMS XI
Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August 2025
After skipping a year, ProgDreams is returning for its eleventh edition in the summer of 2025! At this two-day festival, you may expect a full day and an evening program. ProgDreams is Poppodium Boerderij's indoor festival that focuses on progressive rock and related genres. The festival is known for a mix of established names and exciting newcomers. The surprising line-up and the intimate atmosphere offer a unique experience for musicians and attendees.
BLUES ON SUNDAY XL
Sunday 2 November 2025
Have you been a regular visitor to Blues on Sunday for years? Especially for our 50th anniversary, our doors will open on Sunday afternoon, November 2, for an Extra Large edition of Blues on Sunday.
