If it is up to organizer Esther Pepping, the camera crew will not leave until every part of the Oostermoer exhibition has been recorded on video. It is now the last day of this edition in Zuidlaren and Pepping looks back with pride on what has already been achieved. “Zuildaren is bustling. We have a very nice program and we have a lot of visitors, so we are satisfied. We are happy.”
Oostermoer started as an exhibition 153 years ago. Today, the organization rotates between seven villages. Farmers used to bring their most beautiful animals for the livestock inspection, but the smell of animals has long since disappeared.
However, the smell of agricultural heritage still lingers in the village. The stationary engines are still being polished by their proud owners, such as Hans de Rooij. “Just like someone who performs in a room and receives applause, we get the reactions of the public here. And then Oostermoer is a great opportunity, because many people come here.”
Under the smoke of the stationary engines, the visitor will find the moving engines. Old motorcycles and cars shine at the spectators. “That is certainly important to us, because we can promote our association in this way,” explains Jan Slagter of old-timer club De Hondsrug. “You step out again; you have opportunities to show yourself.”
Pepping points out the innovations they’ve made. Such as the game barbecue as a counterpart to the usual fries and frikandel. And ‘All Zuidlaren Floats’, where participants in inflatable swimming pools make their way through the harbor. The enthusiasm of the participants and the public shows that the exhibition connects residents with each other, and that is what it is all about, according to Pepping.
“People are cheerful and put a lot of energy into making decorations and floats. The village just looks great and the whole village is putting their shoulders to the wheel.”