Not too far outside the Utrecht city center is Kasteel de Haar, a medieval castle founded in the fourteenth century. After falling into disrepair, it was completely rebuilt and makes all those Disney castles look like cottages. The castle sits in a large park area, with numerous paths and trails, as well as a golf course. You can visit the castle park without even visiting the castle itself, as many people do for a nice outing.

The castle ground are also the location of a Country & Christmas Fair, held November 25-29. Along with all sorts of shopping (food, fashion, antiques, winter sports, etc.), there will be numerous presentations and demonstrations, including ice dancing, choral music performances, and an exhibition of 250 years of Wedgewood.

The fair is open this Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are €16 for adults and can be purchased at the ticket office. The website for the fair (in Dutch) has a full listing of events and services. The website for the castle (available in English and Dutch) has detailed information on how to get to the castle either driving or using public transport, as well as the opening times of the castle and park area, prices, and history of the castle. Whether you visit for the fair or go another time to check out the castle and/or grounds, I highly recommend a visit. It's a fantastic way to pass an afternoon and the scenery is fantastic.