Up here in Northern Europe, late June means midsummer night, the shortest night of the year. This occasion is traditionally cause for many parties and other rituals. One in particular is not often talked about in international circles, the midsummer festival in Bourtange.

Bourtange is known as the star fortress. An amazingly beautiful fortress from the 1500's that once protected the only route between the city of Groningen and Germany. Restored to its original state around 1960, the fortress today is an open air museum.

Vestivale Bourtange is a new festival that hopes to become a midsummer standard for years to come. Its focus this year will be the work of William Shakespeare, who wrote in the same era that the fortress was in heavy use. 2 Shakespeare plays will be the centerpiece of the festival this year. These events will be taking place even beyond midsummer, with renaissance style fairs taking place throughout July and August.

Two upcoming dates of particular interest for Vestivale Bourtange are June 19 and 20 when:

The Amuse theatre group will show an adaptation of the comedy 'As you like it' by William Shakespeare under the title of 'Wat u wilt!'; a light-hearted family performance which includes songs, music and dance. In addition to the performances, there will also be musical performances, lectures, stands, booths and people wearing historical dress.

Bourtange is one of those destinations in the Netherlands that you don't often hear about and few have the pleasure to experience. Yet with such a gorgeous summer ahead and such a great list of activities taking place, now is your chance!