Dutch American Heritage Day

In 1991, "Dutch American Heritage Day" (DAHD) was established by an act of Congress. The official day every year is November 16th and is celebrated all over the United States to honor our friendship and business ties with The Netherlands. Here in Temecula, TSCA has created an annual event to promote this special occasion.

The DAHD event is not only to honor Temecula's sister city relationship with Leidschendam-Voorburg in the Netherlands, but also to teach all community members, especially children, about the Dutch people, cultural arts and traditions through fun activities and entertainment.

What does the Netherlands and water have in common?

The Netherlands is abound with water. Eighteen percent of the country is made up of water. The largest part of the Netherlands is below the sea level. Without the protection of the dikes and delta works, large parts of the country would be submerged under water. Throughout history, much of life in the Netherlands has depended on water. The fishing industry plays a critical role in the Dutch economy. Fish, such as herring and paling, play a very important role in the Dutch fish industry. In terms of the global economy, Rotterdam is one of the largest harbors in the whole world. Furthermore, the Dutch have such highly developed water technology that after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans used Dutch water technology to lower the water level by using special pumps. The Royal Prince Willem Alexander even has a degree in water management.

The Atlantic Ocean has provided the Dutch a gateway to global discoveries and given it breadth-taking scenery. World history is full of the stories of amazing Dutch explorations. The Dutch have left an indelible mark the world map over including in Malaysia, Indonesia, South Africa and even established the colony of New Netherland, located in parts of present day New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Connecticut. Unbeknownst to many, the Netherlands has several beautiful islands, such as, Texel, Vlieland, Ameland, Terschelling and Schiermonnikoog, which are a very popular places for tourists.

However, life in this country is also threatened by water. For centuries, the Dutch have been trying to keep their feet dry, by building dams and dikes. With global warming and the Netherlands being below sea level, an increase to water levels could flood the country.

On November 3rd 2007, the Temecula Sister City Association proudly hosts its annual Dutch American Heritage Day at the Temecula Community Recreation Center. This event celebrates Temecula´s sister city relationship with Leidschendam Voorburg and offers the local community an opportunity to learn fascinating facts about the Dutch culture and experience Dutch food and entertainment. Water is the theme for this year´s event, where children can learn in a fun way about the Netherlands.

In September 2007, there will be a children´s contest that has to do with water. Children can express themselves in very different ways. For example, children can submit artwork related to water sports, the ocean and the beach, sea navigation, fish, and even drinking water.

The Temecula Sister City Association is always seeking sponsors, volunteers and vendors. If you want to promote your company at our event, please contact the organization.

JOIN US FOR OUR 2009 DAHD

*** Free Admission ***

 

A special "thank you" to our sponsors

 

Need Directions?

For more information, call (951) 750-1088 or e-mail: DAHD@TemeculaSisterCityAssociation.org