Brunssum: Pumpkimania 2026

 Visit Pumpkimania for all things pumpkin related!

Marvel at the pumpkin sculptures, carve a pumpkin, go on a pumpkin boat ride and enjoy the thousands of colorful pumpkins that transform the park into an autumnal pumpkin wonderland. Pumpkimania is open from 25 September until 1 November. 

Visit https://pumpkimania.be/en for more information and to book your tickets.

Pumpkimania is located in the park of the castle Grand-Bigard (near Brussels)
Isidoor Van Beverenstraat 5 - 1702 Groot-Bijgaarden

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Open Monument Day 2026

Neirhoven House, Nuth - Copyright Open Monumentdag

This weekend is Open Monumentendag, or Open Monument Day, in the Netherlands. Across the country, over 6,000 monuments open their doors to the general public for free on the second weekend of September, with 2026 being the 40th event. 

Nearly 300 monuments and historical sites around Limburg will be open, including several in Sittard, Heerlen, Maastricht, and Valkenburg. Some sites are not open regularly, and others are normally paid entry. 

Some places will have activities for children, and there is a photography competition for anyone handy with a camera. The monuments range from country castles, wonderful windmills, fearsome forts, and more. 

Find out more, including a full list of sites: https://www.openmonumentendag.nl/

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum and EU locations: Last BFPO Posting dates for Christmas 2026

Due to expected disruption to BFPO from 1st November, the final posting date for Christmas 2026 is October 30th, 2026.

Anything posted beyond October 30th cannot be guaranteed to arrive in time for Christmas and may not be delivered until after the New Year.

It is also advised to expect higher demand and disruption to BFPO deliveries between October and December 2026.

The Government provides detailed information on measurements, restricted items and instructions on how to use BFPO.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Recruitment Distribution List

Individuals interested in employment opportunities as a Locally Employed Civilian (LEC) are invited to register on our recruitment distribution list.

To receive information on current and upcoming vacancies, please send an email to: CSOCIGDN-GSO-LECHR-RECRUITMENT@mod.gov.uk 

Registered candidates will receive vacancy advertisements, application forms, and other relevant recruitment information directly by email.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: Language courses starting in September 2026

The MWA Dutch language program is starting again on the 28th September. This is a 12 week course, one evening per week at the ICC. It is available to all NATO ID card holders over the age of 16. To sign up, please email JFCLANGUAGEPROGRAM@gmail.com 

The Dutch course can be funded by the GSO Basic Language Fund or Standard Learning Credits.

GSO Basic Language Fund – The SP and/or their spouse may claim up to 100 euros each once per assignment year. If the Dutch Language programme is a set course, the SP would need to provide the completed application form, proof of payment and proof of learning/completion. More information and the application form can be obtained from the HIVE or the CLOs. 

Standard Learning Credits (SLC) –  This is only available to SPs but can be used every financial year and is worth up to £175 although the SP must be prepared to pay 20% of the cost of the course. More information is available from the NSE. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: Pub Quiz at the Brit Bar, 4th September

Photo by Jessica Lewis 🦋 thepaintedsquare on Unsplash

Family Friday at the Brit Bar is back after the summer, and we're kicking off with a Brit classic: the pub quiz!

Test your knowledge, challenge your colleagues, and see who will take glory in our battle of the brains. In the family friendly spirit, we will start with a kid's quiz at 4pm, followed by the adults. 

Come for the questions, stay for the bragging rights. Are you smart, or just well Googled? 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: What's on in September

There's lots going on this September around JFC Brunssum. Whatever your tastes, there's bound to be something that suits. 

If you are new to JFC Brunssum, welcome! Here are a few things that are available all the time that may be of interest:

For the kids

Blote Voeten Park - a barefoot trail and child-friendly cafe with toys

Kinderstad Heerlen - indoor amusement park with both rides and soft play. 

Mondo Verde - outdoor amusement park with rides, animals, gardens, and a water play area.

Regular Activities are hosted on the base by:

JFC Crafts Centre

JFC Library

The Hub

Get involved - speak to the HIVE for information on the below clubs:

Military Wives Choir

British Ski Club

Book Club

Something missing? Email the Brunssum HIVE for more information: RC-Pers-HIVE-Brunssum-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Newcomer and Family Day

JFC Brunssum is hosting their annual Newcomer and Family Day on 2nd September 2026, celebrating food, culture, and connection. 

Situated at the Flags area (outside Miners Rest), there will be stalls from all the nations represented at JFC Brunssum, as well as from local clubs and resources. The national stalls will have a variety of foods and drinks to try - for example, the British stall has Pimms, strawberries and cream, and a bake-off challenge from the local community. The event is aimed at all ages, including some activities specifically for children. 

Alongside the event, there is an International Tug of War competition at 1500. Contact details to participate are available from the HIVE. 

There are also discounts available at Aelia's Duty Free in line with the event. Certain products will be available for 20% off - more information can be found in store.

If you would like to volunteer with the British stand, please contact the HIVE or the CLOs. 

Information provided by the Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: GDP Medical and Dental Update Brief

 

The Defence Global Practice and RoW Dental Representative will host a short Medical & Dental Update Brief for British personnel and families at JFC Brunssum:

📅 10 September 26

🕦 11:30–12:30

All are welcome to join for the latest updates and opportunity for Q&A.

Please contact the Brunssum HIVE or the NSE for the Teams link. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: Cultura Nova 2026

Copyright Luc Lodder, Cultura Nova 2025

Cultura Nova, an annual ten day arts festival in Heerlen and surrounding towns, begins on Friday August 28th.

The festival includes more than 250 performances in the fields of theater, circus, dance, music, film, and visual arts. There are performances for all ages, in a wide variety of locations, and includes both local and international talent. There is a mix of free and paid events, as well as both pre-booked and walk ins. 

For the full programme and information about the event, visit the event website: https://www.culturanova.nl/

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

Brunssum: Thrift-Tea Takeovers

Curios Thrift Shop will be holding "Thrift-Tea Takeovers" once a month at Tea and Toast. 

The JFC Brunssum thrift shop, part of the British Community Mess, will be coming to Tea and Toast once a month for a takeover. This is a great chance to find a bargain - clothes, books, and more - while enjoying some tea and a chat with other community members. 

It's also a great chance to pick up a "thrift-tea loyal-tea" card - collect stamps at every Tea and Toast or each thrift purchase, and save €2, whether for Tea and Toast or at the thrift shop!

The dates for 2026 are: 26 August, 23 September, 21 October, 18 November, and 16 December. 

Tea and Toast runs on all other Wednesdays, in the British NSE community room, and is €2 a person. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Battle of Trafalgar Night Dinner, 23rd October 2026

The British Community Mess wish to invite you to the Battle of Trafalgar Military Dinner Night 2026, hosted by the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force.

When: Friday 23rd October 2026, 1800-2359
Where: Auberge de Rousch, Heerlen
Who: All members of JFCBS - military, civilian staff, and guests
Dress: Mess dress/equivalent formal military attire, black tie/ball gowns for cilivians
Price: Mess members €60, non-mess members €75 (approximate costs)

Join us for a uniquely naval celebration of Admiral Lord Nelson, The Battle of Trafalgar, and the strength and unity of our NATO alliance. Featuring chocolate galleons, port toasts, Royal Navy customs, and a shanty band, it is set to be an unforgettable night.

Places are limited, so sign up now to avoid disappointment: British Community Mess Battle of Trafalgar Military Dinner Night

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE. 

BRUNSSUM: Welcome Expo - 12 August

The Hub is hosting a Welcome Expo for new arrivals within the Brunssum community or those wanting to get more involved. 

📅 Event Details
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: The Hub, USAG Benelux

🔍 What You'll Find:
Services & Facilities: Get connected with local resources and amenities.
Clubs & Activities: Find local groups, sports, and hobby clubs.
Events: Preview the upcoming community calendar!

This is open to all with access to USAG Benelux, which includes NATO card holders. Information about the Hub, including location, can be found on the US Army website. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: King's Camp Parent/Carer Feedback

King's Camp – Parent/Carer Feedback Request

As King's Camp comes to an end, we'd be grateful if all parents and carers could take a few minutes to complete our short, anonymous feedback survey.

Your feedback is incredibly important. It helps us understand what worked well, identify areas for improvement, and, crucially, provides evidence that supports future funding applications so that we can continue offering opportunities like this for our community.

If your child attended King's Camp, please complete the survey here: Post-Activity Parent/Carer Feedback Kings Camp – Summer Holiday Camp (July 2026) 

📱 Alternatively, you can scan the QR code attached.

Thank you for taking the time to share your views and help shape future programmes.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Vacancy at AFNorth

For an application form please see this link.

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: British Community Summer BBQ, 22nd August

WHAT: British Community Summer BBQ - Free Entry
WHEN: Saturday 22nd August, 1300 - 2000
WHERE: NATO Sports Complex
WHO: All British Community Mess members and their families
SIGN UP NOW! To help us with catering numbers, please fill out the sign-up sheet: Sign up

Free BBQ food - free ice cream - cash bar - inflatable assault course - face painting
Overnight camping is available on-site for campervans only. 

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: Street Jump Heerlen - Indoor Trampoline Park

 

Largest indoor trampoline park in Heerlen and the surrounding area. 40+ trampolines and 8 different areas.

You can choose to jump for 1, 1.5 or 2 hours.

Brunssum: Consent form for travelling abroad with a minor

If you are travelling abroad with your child it's recommended that you have a Consent form for travelling abroad with a minor which is signed by the parent/guardian not travelling with the child.

You can either download and print a copy of this form here: Consent form for travelling abroad with a minor, or you can pick a paper copy up from the NSE (copies are on the Hive noticeboard above the radiator).

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

Brunssum: ⚽ Summer Soccer Camp – Registration Opening Soon! ⚽

Great news! Dates are now confirmed for this year’s Summer Soccer Camp 🎉

🗓 Registration opens: Monday, 18 May
⏰ Registration closes: 30 June (or sooner if full)

👧🧒 Limited spaces available – max 50 children
📌 Important Information:

✅ Cost: €185 per child
✅ Payment: EURO cash only (payable at registration)

✅ T‑Shirt Size Required: European sizes (in cm)
👉 Recommendation: order one size larger than needed

Available sizes:
128 | 140 | 152 | 164 | 176 | Adult M | Adult L

Don’t miss out — spaces are limited and fill quickly!

📣 Sign‑ups begin 18 May, so spread the word and get ready for a fun‑filled summer of football ⚽☀️

Information provided by International HIVE

Brunssum: This Week in Brunssum | Week Commencing 6 May 2026

Early May in Brunssum continues to be a reflective and community‑focused time of year. Following Remembrance Day (4 May) and Liberation Day (5 May), the town settles back into its usual rhythm, with local markets, green spaces and cafés offering plenty to enjoy as the week continues.

Here’s what’s on this week in Brunssum:

🇳🇱 Remembrance & Liberation (Earlier This Week)

At the start of the week, residents across the Netherlands marked: Remembrance Day (4 May) – A time to reflect and remember those who lost their lives in war and peacekeeping missions.
Liberation Day (5 May) – Celebrating the liberation of the Netherlands at the end of the Second World War.