Utrecht will host the first edition of the Proef de Liefde (Taste of Love) festival this September, a one-day event dedicated to exploring love, connection, and self-expression within an inclusive environment. The festival aims to provide a safe space for community building and to break down taboos surrounding intimacy in its many forms.
Scheduled for September 12 at Beton T, the event is designed for anyone interested in queer identity, polyamory, kink, and authentic connection, regardless of their background or experience level.
Workshops, Talks, and Connection
The festival's program is built around four central themes: queer, polyamory, kink, and connection. Organizers have curated a diverse schedule of activities that includes practical workshops, performances, and open discussions. The goal is to foster an atmosphere of 'gentle learning' and empowerment.
Highlights from the program include:
- An erotic writing workshop
- A theatre performance
- A dance workshop
- A session titled 'Discover Your Dom Flavour'
- A 'human library' where participants can discuss labels and identities
The festival will also address the intersection of relationships and identity, with a panel featuring a relationship therapist specializing in neurodiversity. The discussion will focus on practical ways to communicate sexual preferences and needs with new partners.
A Community-Driven Initiative
Proef de Liefde is organized by a team of three women—Nina, Monica, and Frieda—each with deep roots in different community spaces. Nina is an experienced organizer of non-profit events for the queer and polyamory communities. Monica brings expertise in fundraising and non-profit management, while Frieda is active in sex-positive and tantra circles.
In an interview with the original source, Zij aan Zij, co-organizer Frieda spoke about her motivation. "The passion for breaking taboos, for normalizing sexuality and being different, that's something I've had my whole life," she said. "I want to do something about the idea that everyone has to conform to what society considers normal."
Event Details
What: Proef de Liefde Festival
When: September 12, from 12:20 to 23:00
Where: Beton T, Wilhelminalaan 4, Utrecht
The full program and tickets are available on the official festival website. For more information, visit proefdeliefde.nl.
This article is based on reporting by Zij aan Zij.
