Elfia Arcen 2026: costume tips for the Castle Gardens
- 2 min reading time
Elfia will descend upon the Kasteeltuinen Arcen on September 19 and 20, 2026. This is how you put together an outfit that will help you fit in among the Elfians.
Elfia will land in the Kasteeltuinen Arcen in Noord-Limburg on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026. The kingdom of Elfia is Europe's largest outdoor costume event, and taking part is half the fun. In this article, you can put together your costume using items from the medieval and related fantasy collections.
What is Elfia?
Elfia is a fantasy and costume event that has grown into Europe's largest outdoor costume event. In the Kasteeltuinen Arcen, the kingdom is spread across more than thirty locations with music, shows, workshops and a costume parade. Visitors, the Elfians, come dressed as elves, knights, witches, mermaids or original fantasy creatures, together creating the backdrop of the event.
When is Elfia Arcen 2026?
Elfia Arcen 2026 takes place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026. Please note: separate tickets and rates apply during Elfia, and regular tickets for Kasteeltuinen Arcen are not valid on those days. The gardens are also closed for set-up and dismantling around the event.
What should you wear to Elfia?
Anything goes, from an original character that has taken months of work to a ready-made costume. Popular looks include elves, medieval knights and ladies-in-waiting, witches and wizards, and steampunk. Choose a character that suits you and build the outfit layer by layer.
Creating an elf look with wings and accessories
The basis of an elf look is a light robe or dress in natural tones, complemented by fairy wings, a flower crown and glitter on the cheekbones. Pointy ears and subtle face paint complete the look.
Medieval look for knights and ladies-in-waiting
For a medieval character, choose a robe or tunic with a belt, combined with a medieval wig with braids or long hair. Build a dark character using items from the witches and wizards collection.
Practical tips for Elfia Arcen
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the paths in the Kasteeltuinen are long and partly unpaved.
- Keep September weather in mind and choose a costume with layers.
- Take part in the costume parade, the highlight for everyone who comes dressed up.
- Buy your tickets in advance via the official Elfia website.
Frequently asked questions about Elfia Arcen
When is Elfia Arcen 2026?
Elfia Arcen 2026 takes place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026 in the Kasteeltuinen Arcen in Noord-Limburg.
What is Elfia?
Elfia is Europe's largest outdoor costume event. Visitors come dressed as elves, knights, witches or original fantasy creatures, and the programme features more than thirty locations with music, shows and a costume parade.
Do you have to dress up for Elfia?
A costume is not mandatory, but the majority of visitors come dressed up. Taking part makes the event much more fun, from a simple elf look to a fully developed character.
Are regular Kasteeltuinen Arcen tickets valid during Elfia?
No, separate tickets and rates apply during Elfia. Regular tickets for Kasteeltuinen Arcen are not valid on the event days.
