ENKHUIZEN, THE NETHERLANDS – June 29, 2026 – de Garden in Enkhuizen has officially opened its vibrant grounds to the public via a brand-new accessible entrance. On Saturday, June 27, Mayor Jeltje Hoekstra-Sikkema officially inaugurated the new pedestrian bridge connecting the Westeinde to de Garden, after which the family of the late Simon N. Groot proudly unveiled the bridge’s name. The new Simon N. Groot Bridge literally bridges the gap between the city and this unique discovery garden, making it safer, more accessible, and welcoming for all visitors.
During the festive opening ceremony, Chairman Ton de Rooij looked back on the inspiring history and evolution of de Garden. The project was originally initiated in 2019 by agricultural pioneer Simon N. Groot, who envisioned breathing new life into the historic former “Summer Garden” of Sluis & Groot. His dream was not only to reopen the flower garden to the public but also to expand its horizons by introducing a rich variety of vegetables, flowers and herbs.
With the generous support of crop science leader Syngenta, which made the land available, alongside numerous companies from the international plant and seed sector, the vision quickly became a reality. Since its grand opening in 2022, de Garden has blossomed into an extraordinary educational discovery garden. Today, sixteen domestic and international companies actively contribute to its maintenance and diversity, drawing a steady stream of local and international visitors every year to explore its vast collection of heirloom and modern varieties of flowers, vegetables, herbs, and cutting flowers.
Showcasing Community Spirit and Agricultural Innovation
In his address, Chairman De Rooij praised the invaluable dedication of more than fifty volunteers who meticulously maintain the garden week after week. He also expressed deep gratitude to the Ondernemersfonds Enkhuizen (Enkhuizen Entrepreneurs Fund) for their vital financial support in making the construction of the bridge possible.
Mayor Hoekstra-Sikkema lauded de Garden as a true showcase for the municipality, noting that the new bridge beautifully strengthens the garden’s connection to the heart of the city. She also emphasized Enkhuizen’s global significance as the capital of “Seed Valley”, the world-leading hub where knowledge and cutting-edge innovation in vegetable, flower, and plant breeding converge.
“Here, visitors can see with their own eyes just how vital this sector is to our global food supply. It is absolutely magnificent!” – Mayor Jeltje Hoekstra-Sikkema
Following the official ribbon-cutting and the emotional unveiling of the bridge’s name, attendees gathered to raise a glass to the future of the garden, echoing a traditional Dutch sentiment: “Dat die mag leven, groeien en bloeien!” (“May it live, grow, and flourish!”).
Visitor Information
de Garden is a non-profit discovery garden dedicated to showcasing the past, present, and future of plant breeding and agriculture.
- Admission: Free of charge
- Opening Period: From now until the end of September
- Opening Hours: Wednesday mornings and throughout the weekend
- Location: Accessible via the new Simon N. Groot Bridge at Westeinde, Enkhuizen
For more information, guided tour bookings, and up-to-date opening hours, please visit www.degarden.nl.
###
Media Contact: de Garden Press Office Email: info@degarden.nl
Enkhuizen, The Netherlands
Pictures: Andries Zwaan.
