The coastal city of IJmuiden has been selected as the host for the 30th edition of the COC Songfestival. The annual LGBTQ+ music competition is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 24 October 2026, at the city's Haventheater.
The event will be organised by COC Kennemerland, the local chapter of the national LGBTQ+ association. The selection of IJmuiden follows the victory of their representative, Marco Edam, at the 2025 festival in Middelburg. Edam secured the win with his song "Schouders" (Shoulders), bringing the event back to the province of North Holland for the first time since 2022.
A Milestone Edition
The 2026 edition holds particular significance as it marks a dual milestone. In addition to being the 30th anniversary of the song festival itself, the host organisation, COC Kennemerland, will be celebrating its 50th year of operation.
Jasmijn Miete, chairperson of COC Kennemerland, commented on the announcement. "We are proud to be able to organise the 30th COC Songfestival during our own jubilee year," she stated. "The location is also unique: the Haventheater in IJmuiden is located right by the North Sea, in the heart of the Kennemerland region."
Miete added, "Especially in these times, it is important to create space for positivity, visibility, and awareness – and we prefer to do that together with our community here in the region. We look forward to making this jubilee festival an unforgettable celebration of diversity."
Tickets and Participation
Details regarding ticket sales and how organisations or individuals can participate in the competition have not yet been released. Organisers have indicated that this information will be made available at a later date through official channels, including the festival's website at www.cocsongfestival.nl.
