ABOUT US

“The purpose of the group is to support and promote Dutch customs, projects and events. To extend the celebration of Dutch heritage from three days to the entire year.”

– Betsy Huibregtse, founding member.

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In the 1980s, a couple of devoted citizens recognized a gap in Orange City's efforts to promote and preserve Dutch customs. While the steering committee was involved in the Tulip Festival and the City Chamber promoted business growth, there was no group solely dedicated to preserving Dutch heritage. Determined to fill this void, the devoted citizens rallied other like-minded individuals and founded the Dutch Heritage Boosters in 1986.

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In our inaugural year, the founding DHB Committee introduced various cultural events to Orange City including Sinterklaas Day, "Dutch Dinner Theaters” and Dutch culture and language classes in the local elementary schools. Over 35 years later, the DHB remains committed to our mission of preserving and promoting Dutch heritage in Orange City.

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Today, we continue to serve the community in a variety of ways. From selling poffertjes at the Little White Store to providing the many trees lining main street, from preserving the Century Home to celebrating Sinterklaas Day, the DHB is a cornerstone of Orange City's cultural identity. Their efforts would not be possible without the help of hundreds of volunteers who contribute their time and energy throughout the year.

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With our unwavering dedication to preserving Dutch heritage, the Dutch Heritage Boosters strive to be examples of community involvement and civic engagement. The legacy of service and celebration will undoubtedly endure for many more decades to come.