JANUARY 28, 2025 — Residents of Dieren, a town in Rheden, Netherlands, have initiated a campaign to design and adopt a village flag chosen by the community, NieuwsNL reports.
The process is inspired by a similar initiative in Laag-Soeren and aims to foster a stronger sense of unity among residents.
The competition, supported financially by the Buurtschap van Dieren, is set to run from January to May this year.
“This flag is a chance to create something lasting for our village,” said Rheden Council member Willem Heesen, one of the organizers. “We hope for as many enthusiastic submissions as possible.”
The idea for a village flag has been in development for years, says Studio Rheden.
An earlier design by Carlo Polman, who worked for an advertising agency, featuring blue, green, and white elements, sparked interest but left many residents expressing the desire for a flag chosen collectively.
Entries can be submitted through a dedicated website, devlagvandieren.nl, until March 16.
The website outlines specific design criteria: flags must maintain a 2:3 ratio, use no more than five solid colors, and avoid copyrighted material. Designs should symbolize Dieren’s history, natural beauty, or cultural heritage while remaining simple, original, and respectful.
Once the submission period closes, an independent jury composed of local residents will review the designs and select three to five finalists. From March 31 to April 20, all residents of Dieren will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite design in an online poll.
The winning flag will be unveiled on May 17, during the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Dierense Toren at the Mud & Fun Festival.
After its unveiling, the flag will be presented to the municipal council in June 2025 for formal approval, making it the official symbol of Dieren.
Image: NieuwsNL
