When you hear about the opening of the cultural season, you may think of stuffy balls and formal opera, dance cards, and generally events that were popular a few hundred years ago. That's not how things go in Utrecht, though. This weekend is the Utrecht Uitfeest, which marks the opening of the cultural season. Concerts, exhibitions, workshops and so much more will be a part of this city-wide celebration.

The Uitfeest is also part of the monthly Cultural Sunday event, but this year it's so big, it's the whole weekend, not just Sunday. Learn Brazilian dance and capoeira at a workshop; listen to musicians ranging from classical pianist Igor Roma to quirky pop artists Room Eleven; visit RTV Utrecht 102; watch cutting-edge films; attend open houses at most of the cities museums. The wealth of options is almost overwhelming. There is so much going on that your best bet is to check out the official website, where you can download a copy of the event's brochure, which is a must-have if you want to see the full list of all the events and locations so you can plan appropriately. There are also time schedules and maps and more on the website, including information for getting around without a car. Don't forget that the inner city is auto-free on Sunday. Of course, there will be special buses, tuk tuks and even horse-drawn buses to help you get from location to location on Sunday.

The Utrecht Uitfeest takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13. Events are free and most of the day's activities start at 10 a.m., but run on through the night. Check the official website to get maps, transportation information and the brochure that will help you plan your weekend.