Poppodium Boerderij nominated for IJzeren Podiumdier

Poppodium Boerderij has been nominated for an IJzeren Podiumdier for its marketing campaign celebrating the venue’s 50th anniversary. The IJzeren Podiumdieren are awarded annually by the Association of Dutch Pop Venues and Festivals (VNPF), the trade association for Dutch pop venues and festivals. The nomination is therefore a recognition from within the sector itself, highlighting inspiring projects and initiatives by fellow organisations.

The anniversary year revolved entirely around past, present, and future, with the documentary “From Squat to International Pop Venue”—created by Zoetermeer-based filmmaker Marc Waltman—as its highlight. The film brought together generations of volunteers, staff, and visitors, shining a spotlight on the rich history of Poppodium Boerderij.

The campaign, which combined storytelling, social media, and local partnerships, attracted full houses and sparked a wave of pride and recognition in Zoetermeer and far beyond. Each film screening became a festive reunion where former and current volunteers, visitors, and staff met again. Together, they looked back on memorable moments from the past—from squatters and wild nights to sold-out shows and world-famous acts. At the same time, they looked ahead to the future, in which Poppodium Boerderij will move to a brand-new building.

Since 1997, the VNPF has presented the IJzeren Podiumdieren: industry awards through which colleagues from the pop sector celebrate standout projects and organisations. Poppodium Boerderij’s nomination shows that the campaign has also been noticed and appreciated within the sector.