Limburg seeks UNESCO heritage status for renowned Pinkpop festival

The province of Limburg will investigate whether Pinkpop can be granted the status of Dutch intangible cultural heritage. Within six months, it must also assess the feasibility of nominating the festival for UNESCO World Heritage status in the future. A majority of the members of the Limburg Provincial Council voted in favor of a proposal to this effect.

Pinkpop has been held annually since 1970, now developing into an internationally recognized music festival. It also holds the Guinness World Records title for the longest-running annual music festival in the world.

“It is a Limburg success story that brings generations together, creates opportunities for enterpreneurs and gives our province an international profile,” the VVD stated in its explanation of the proposal. “A tradition that originated here deserves to be preserved, passed down to future generations, and brought to the attention of audiences worldwide."

The coalition party believes that UNESCO status could enhance the international reputation of both Pinkpop and Limburg. According to provincial executive member Jasper Kunzelaers, Pinkpop’s management is very enthusiastic about the plan.