The final preparations are in full swing at the 18 Septemberplein in Eindhoven for the second edition of New Years EHVE, a free party during New Year’s Eve. This year it will be twice as big as last year, the organization says. This should also be noticeable in the number of visitors. While there were 14,000 last year, this year 25,000 revelers are expected.
A forklift speeds past pedestrians, crowd barriers and information boards are erected and the tents on the square are furnished with a bar and refrigerator. We have been working hard all week to get everything ready for the second edition of New Years EHVE on Tuesday evening.
Shaking knees
On the roof terrace of the Lichttoren, the stage is ready for performances by Lampegastuh, Joel Borelli and Feest DJ Ruud. Fortunately, they are not afraid of heights. “Last year we had artists who found the height exciting. Their knees were shaking,” laughs organizer Patrick van de Voort.
People who want to attend the free show are recommended to go by bike. This is due to the crowds. Moreover, there is no public transport from eight o’clock in the evening. Several parts of the city are closed, including the Vestdijk tunnel, Stationsweg and parts of Mathildelaan.
Fireworks show
For the time being, the fireworks show appears to be continuing as normal. It lasts twenty minutes, just like last year. “The difference with last year is that we start earlier,” says Van de Voort. “This year already at nine o’clock in the evening.” There are four entrances in total that everyone can enter for free, but the organization emphasizes: ‘full is full.’
Visitors can submit a New Year’s wish of up to ten seconds. These videos are projected on the Light Tower. The party lasts until 1:30 am.