Manageable turn of the year in Zoetermeer

Mayor Michel Bezuijen rode along with the police during the turn of the year: "We can look back on a busy but manageable turn of the year in Zoetermeer. Thanks in part to the tremendous efforts of police, enforcement officers, fire department, ambulance service, security guards and community work, it was a party in the city for most people. I have a lot of respect for our emergency workers who are always there, in the days preceding and of course on the night itself."

Laser shows and youth party

Also this year in Zoetermeer, the New Year was ushered in with 2 laser shows on the Market Square. There was music, a review of the year and the big countdown. The laser shows at 7:30 p.m., especially for children, and the one at midnight attracted a total of 2,500 visitors. At SilverDome, 2,000 young people celebrated at the Hitmachine NYE festival 2025.

Incidents

Based on preliminary figures from the Haaglanden Safety Region, the fire department responded 28 times to put out fires. The ambulance came out 38 times. The police had to intervene 9 times and 2 persons were arrested. These preliminary figures are similar to the figures from last year's turn of the year.

Preparing for New Year's Eve

Combustible material and car wrecks are removed as much as possible before the turn of the year. Garbage bins, trash and paper containers, parking garages and parking meters were closed. To prevent damage to the road surface for setting fires in baskets and oil drums, residents were able to pick up 2 bags of sand free of charge.

Mayor Bezuijen: "Every year, together with partners such as the police, fire department, Gro-up youth work and neighborhood prevention, we do everything possible to ensure a safe New Year's Eve with as little damage as possible. Still, it remains a disproportionate effort for a night when we simply want to celebrate together. Last night I saw many outdoor fires and a lot of fireworks were also set off. Combined with high winds, I expect the damage to be significant this year as well. The destruction, damage and risks to emergency responders as a result of setting off private fireworks confirm my belief that a nationwide ban on fireworks is necessary. Only in this way can we ensure that the turn of the year is a celebration for everyone, without danger or nuisance."

Damage

Despite all the preparations and efforts of emergency services and residents, vandalism occurred in the city again this year during the turn of the year. The damage to items in public spaces is being inventoried and is expected to be clear in February.