FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Who runs ESP Haarlem?
ESP (English Speaking Playgroup) Haarlem is an informele vereniging (informal association) run by a small group of volunteers. If you would like to get involved in ESP by organizing events or meet-ups, or by helping at events or at playgroup, please get in touch!
2
When is playgroup?
Meet us every Monday for our iconic English Speaking Playgroup at the Posthuis in Zannenpark! It's a welcoming community space where anyone can drop by to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while connecting with others. Best of all, the Monday playgroup is completely free!
If you would like to contribute to building out the Posthuis community room, consider becoming a PosthuisVriend. This program helps support and maintain this independent, unsubsidized neighborhood initiative and helps fulfill the Posthuis mission: a vibrant meeting place in the park, for, by, and of the neighborhood.
3
Why do I have to pay?
You do not need to pay to attend our playgroup. The annual contribution you make to ESP Haarlem is used to rent venues for celebrations and Member-Only events. These typically include an Easter egg hunt, a summer party, our famous Halloween event, and a winter holiday event.​
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Throughout the year, members often organize other social events. These events may have additional costs associated with them. For example, Street Jump Haarlem, movie night, or wine tasting.
4
How can I stay up-to-date?
Our Instagram and public Facebook profile will have information about any events that are open to the public.
As an ESP Member, you also have access to our Member-Only Facebook Group, an informational newsletter, and a Member-Only WhatsApp community.
5
Who can be a member?
We are lucky enough to have members from all over the world. Some of us have been living in the Netherlands for many years; some have just arrived and are busy exploring and settling in. Our connecting thread is that we all speak English. Yes, this means you'll chat with Dutchies, and you'll often hear other languages at our gatherings, too!
Our families have children of all ages—in addition to our Monday playgroup, we plan afternoon and school holiday meet-ups for older children in school. We ask for your children's ages when you join ESP, so we can plan events that cater to all our members.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to make lasting memories with your family and fellow expats!