The Zwarte Cross Festival is the biggest paid festival in the Netherlands, and the biggest motor event in the world. The 15th edition in 2011 had 152,500 visitors. The festival is a combination of motorcross, music, theatre and stunts. 'Zwarte Cross' literally means 'black cross'; it is a reference to the illegal motor races in the 1960s.
History
The first edition of the Zwarte Cross took place in 1997. It was a motorcross in which anyone could compete on a motorcycle, moped or scooter. About 150 people competed and there were 1000 visitors. The day was concluded with a concert of the organizing rock band Jovink en de Voederbietels. Although the name suggested the race was illegal, the organisation had all the needed permits. The festival proved to be successful, because the second edition had 350 competitors, and 4000 visitors. This 2nd edition did have a lot of wounded and injured. Therefore the organisation decided to cooperate with a professional motorcross-club, HALMAC in Halle. The third edition was held on their official Grand Prix-Circuit. In 2007 the festival moved to Lichtenvoorde.
The mascot and logo of the Zwarte Cross is 'Tante Rikie', Rikie Nijman, mother of Jovink's manager André Nijman. She also is the unofficial festival ceo, and is well known amongst the visitors. During the festival, she is carried around in a sedan chair, and visitors kneel for her.
Editions
2010
The 14th edition took place 15 July - 18 July. Performing bands were: Band Zonder Banaan, The Baseballs, Big Shampoo and the Hairstylers, Caro Emerald, Coparck, DeWolff, Di-rect, Jon Oliva's Pain, Guus Meeuwis, Kamelot, K's Choice, Mala Vita, Marike Jager, Moss. 148.00 people visited the festival.
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