DI tipt: new products and Ruhr area outings for the Dutch
I'm DI, founder of SteinKunstWerk. Early August is always a special time for me. The whole of the Netherlands is on holiday at the same time: the northern region is on summer holiday until August 16, the southern region until August 23, and the central region even until August 30. And the construction holiday also begins in the central region on August 3. In short: a great time to head across the border instead of driving to the airport.
The Ruhr area is surprisingly close for many Dutch people. And no, you don't have to make a whole city trip out of it. An afternoon at the fairground, a free festival in Dortmund, or an evening at the Dortmunder U is enough for a fun day off.
Start with the central Dutch guide to the Ruhr area: cities, routes, and events →
My four tips for the next two weeks
- August 6 to 16: Cranger Kirmes in Herne.
- August 7 and 8: the free MICRO!FESTIVAL in Dortmund.
- until August 28: Sommer am U.
- from August 20: the Ruhrtriennale from the Netherlands.
The German event pages remain supplementary for up-to-date data, times, and official links; for planning from the Netherlands, use the Dutch guides first.
What do new products have to do with this?
I don't believe in blogging where every outing ends with a forced shopping list. What I do like is linking a product to the feeling after such a day. Coming home, taking off your shoes, having a drink, and letting the hustle and bustle subside for a while.
For those who prefer to choose from a single overview after a day trip, the Dutch selection for home trends, fragrance & self-care is ready. From that overview, you can browse directly to mugs, soaps, home fragrance, and home décor.
First, choose the right product world: handmade mugs and cups · solid soaps and accessories · home décor.
For the Dutch “even a bakkie doen”
Currently available: Costa Nova latte macchiato cup (380 ml) · Hokuryo tea cup (300 ml). Check the contents and stock before choosing.
For the moment when fairground dust and sunscreen can be washed off
Bergamot Mandarin is fresh, Quince Rhubarb is a bit fruitier. The 3-in-1 Soap Box is handy for on the go.
For those who prefer to choose one good object instead of five souvenirs
The mustard yellow DREIECK vase instantly creates an atmosphere without filling a room.
DI’s personal approach
Choose one outing and one quiet moment at home. A day off doesn't need to be more than that.
Read my Dutch guide to the Cranger Kirmes
Best, DI
Founder of SteinKunstWerk
Dutch holiday context: Dutch government, summer holiday 2026. Construction holiday data: FNV.