Participants in the upcoming Nijmegen Marches can look forward to pleasant weather next week. Meteorological service Weeronline expects thoroughly favourable conditions for long-distance walking. Afternoon temperatures will range between 20 and 22 degrees. According to the weather service, these temperatures are slightly cooler than the usual late-July average of 24 degrees for the Nijmegen region. Experts note that these lower temperatures support prolonged physical exertion. The weather will remain warm enough to prevent walkers from catching a chill during rest breaks.
The annual event, officially known as the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen, always takes place during the third week of July. The event started in 1909 to promote health and military fitness. Today, it stands as the largest walking event in the world. It draws over 45,000 civilian and military participants from over 70 countries. Walkers choose to complete 30, 40, or 50 kilometres each day, depending on their age, gender, and category. Successful finishers earn the prestigious Vierdaagse Cross.
Sun and light mid-week showers
The four-day walking event begins on Tuesday. Forecasters expect a virtually dry opening day with regular periods of sunshine. Occasional light showers may develop on Wednesday and Thursday. However, Weeronline states that walkers will escape heavy downpours, thunderstorms, hail, and severe wind gusts. On Friday, the final walking day culminates on the traditional Via Gladiola. Temperatures will rise slightly to around 24 degrees on this final day. Millions of gladioli flowers line the streets as over 250,000 spectators gather to welcome the finishers.
Festival crowds require a jacket
This weekend, the accompanying Nijmegen Marches festival gets underway. Daytime temperatures will remain slightly below average at 21 to 23 degrees. The week-long festival is one of Europe’s largest free public events. The celebration transforms the entire city centre with live music, food stalls, and cultural performances.
Nighttime temperatures will drop to between 12 and 13 degrees. Weeronline expects these normal seasonal values. The evening air will feel chilly for festival visitors who do not bring a jacket or jumper.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
