Question 1

When does Museumpark VONK open?

Accepted Answer

Museumpark VONK will open on July 18 2026.

Question 2

What happens to the preHistorisch Dorp?

Accepted Answer

The preHistorisch Dorp is evolving into Museumpark VONK. As part of this transformation, the existing experience is being expanded with an additional 350 to 400 years of regional history. Everything you already know and love will remain, while there will be even more to discover and experience. In the new museum building, you will find an introductory show, an exhibition, and a workshop. In the workshop, you will work together with others to create large-scale installations called "sparks." These remarkable constructions bring important moments from the region’s history to life in an engaging way. Once completed, they become part of the Garden of Wonder. The current preHistorisch Dorp will continue as the World of Experience within the museum park. While the name preHistorisch Dorp will disappear, the experience itself will remain, becoming part of a larger museum filled with new stories and experiences.

Question 3

What is the idea behind VONK?

Accepted Answer

VONK is a hands-on history museum in Eindhoven where you discover and experience 10,000 years of the city and region’s history. We highlight the moments when literal “sparks” were ignited: historical turning points that have permanently shaped the region and continue to influence it today. Together with us, you help build large-scale installations that bring historical stories to life. These “sparks” present the past in a striking and iconic way. You think along about the themes, contribute to the design, and actively help construct the installations. In this way, we make history both visible and tangible together. Not without reason, the central theme is: experience history together. History belongs to everyone, and by thinking and building together, we make it something we all share. VONK builds on the accessible approach of the current preHistorisch Dorp and serves both residents of the region and visitors from elsewhere. In addition to early history, the museum also highlights more recent history, such as the rise of manufacturing in Eindhoven. This gives recent history a more prominent role than in the current presentation of the preHistorisch Dorp, where mainly early and early modern history are central.

Question 4

What makes VONK different from other museums?

Accepted Answer

VONK is not a museum where you only observe, but one where you actively participate: a museum in motion. You experience history by building, experimenting, and exploring. Together with makers, you help create new “sparks” that are installed in the museum.

Question 5

Where does the name Museumpark VONK come from?

Accepted Answer

The new name Museumpark VONK is derived from the expression to ignite the spark, reflecting the museum’s focus on the transformative moments in the history of Eindhoven and its region. Those pivotal moments that set irreversible change in motion. At the same time, VONK refers to Eindhoven’s pioneering and inventive spirit, where, sometimes quite literally, a spark ignited innovations and developments that continue to shape the region today. The name also honours the museum’s roots in the preHistorisch Dorp. For generations, visitors have learned to make fire using flint and steel, just as people did in the past. Those first sparks have become an iconic part of the experience and remain a symbolic connection to the museum’s origins.

Question 6

Is VONK suitable for all ages?

Accepted Answer

Yes, VONK offers something for every visitor. The introductory show immediately draws you into the story. You watch, listen, and take part. In the exhibition, you discover the history of Eindhoven through accessible stories and remarkable objects. In the workshop, you share ideas, ask questions, and engage with others. The activities are designed to appeal to both children and adults. There is also plenty to discover throughout the museum park. You’ll find in-depth information alongside hands-on activities that encourage you to experience, experiment, and explore history for yourself.

Question 7

What does the new museum building look like?

Accepted Answer

The new museum building features a great deal of wood, glass, and greenery, allowing it to blend naturally into its surroundings. Inside, you will find a variety of spaces, including a workshop, exhibition area, museum shop, introductory show, auditorium, and brasserie. A special feature is the publicly accessible roof garden. The roof garden can be visited free of charge during opening hours. From here, you can enjoy a beautiful view over the museum park, the Genneper Parken, and the Eindhoven skyline. The building demonstrates how craftsmanship and innovation come together, using bio-based materials, circular construction methods, and smart energy solutions.

Question 8

Where can I park?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available in the museum car park (day rate €5). If the car park is full, you can park for free along the service road of Boutenslaan or on Antoon Coolenlaan.

Question 9

How are the plans financed?

Accepted Answer

The museum receives a contribution of €7 million from the Regional Deal, supplemented by contributions from various funds and sponsorships. The required co-financing for a plan of approximately €8 million has now been more than secured. The annual subsidy from the municipality for operational costs remains unchanged.

Question 10

Can I work in the workshop myself?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in the workshop you help build a new spark. The workshop consists of three zones. In Zone 1, you think along about the themes. In Zone 2, you observe how vocational students and volunteers are building. In Zone 3, you take part and build yourself.

Question 11

How do the themes get chosen?

Accepted Answer

We do this by listening to what is happening in Eindhoven and in society as a whole. We also look at important topics from Eindhoven’s history that have received little attention in our museum so far, but do deserve it.

Question 12

Who develops and builds the wonderful structures (vonken)?

Accepted Answer

The museum commissions designers for each vonk to create the design. The construction is carried out by vocational students (MBO level) and our visitors, under the guidance of museum staff.

Question 13

Do the vonken stay in het museum permanent or do they get replaced after some time?

Accepted Answer

There are a maximum of ten vonken at any one time in the museum park. As a result, they are continuously replaced over time. A vonk that leave the museum may be relocated to another place in the city.

Question 14

What is the ticket price?

Accepted Answer

A ticket for VONK is €16.50. Entrance for Museumkaart and VriendenLoterij VIP Card holders, as well as children aged 3 and under, is free.

Question 15

Is there public catering?

Accepted Answer

In the museum building, you will find Brasserie VONK. The brasserie is accessible to museum visitors as well as walkers in the Genneper Parken.

Question 16

How does VONK contribute to strengthening greenery and biodiversity?

Accepted Answer

We are enhancing the landscape around the museum with more public green spaces and native plants and trees. Together with partners such as Trefpunt Groen , we actively increase biodiversity. We focus not only on adding more greenery, but especially on quality and variety. We create different biotopes that strengthen biodiversity in the Genneper Parken. If existing green elements need to be adjusted, we compensate for this in accordance with legal requirements and engage in dialogue with environmental and conservation organisations.

Question 17

How do I stay up to date?

Accepted Answer

Follow us on social media so you don’t miss any news, events, or activities. Also check our website regularly for the latest updates.

Question 18

Can I contribute ideas or help develop VONK?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Co-creation plays an important role at VONK. Would you like to contribute ideas, talk with us, or take part? Then please get in touch with us.

Question 19

Is the Museum Kids Card valid for children’s parties?

Accepted Answer

The Museum Kids Card is not valid in combination with children’s parties.

Question 20

Can I, as an accompanying adult, use the Museum Card?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as an accompanying adult at a children’s party, you can enter for free with a Museum Card.

Question 21

Are food and drinks included at a children's party?

Accepted Answer

The €13.50 per child price for the Kids Expedition includes museum admission, but excludes food and drinks. Want to make the party extra special? Add a feast at Brasserie VONK for just €7.50 per child. You can choose between a Kids’ Fries Feast, with fries and a snack (frikandel, croquette or chicken nuggets), or a pancake feast with mini pancakes and a selection of toppings. The feast also includes lemonade, and every child can choose their own delicious Goodoo ice cream.

Question 22

What should I include in the invitation?

Accepted Answer

A little tip for your invitation: ask your guests to wear sturdy shoes and clothes that can get dirty. At Museumpark VONK, getting stuck in and getting a little messy is all part of the fun!

Question 23

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks and have a picnic in the museum park. In the catering areas and on the terrace, only food and drinks purchased from our own catering facilities may be consumed.

Question 24

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Dogs are welcome in the Museum Park, however they must be kept on a leash. Dogs are also welcome in the museum building in the workshop and Brasserie VONK. Dogs are not allowed in the introductory show Travel Through Time or in the Cabinet of Stories exhibition.

Question 25

What are the costs for a business meeting at Museumpark VONK?

Accepted Answer

For information on venue hire and catering options, please contact boekingen@vonk.nl. A guided tour can be booked from €75 per group. Team-building activities and workshops are available from €29.50 per person.

Question 26

Can we add a guided tour to our meeting?

Accepted Answer

Explore the museum with a guide on an interactive tour lasting around 1 hour. Guided tours are available for groups of up to 35 people. Self-guided visits to the park are available for groups of up to 250 people. During your visit, you’ll meet various residents of the park, who will engage the group in a story, a demonstration or a short activity.

Question 27

Can we book spaces at Museumpark VONK on an exclusive basis?

Accepted Answer

The Auditorium is available for daily rental for up to 70 people. It is also possible to rent multiple spaces throughout the park exclusively outside regular opening hours (on Mondays and on other days after 5:00 PM), such as the Brasserie, the Workshop, or the entire museum park. All options are subject to consultation and available upon request.

Question 28

What should we do in bad weather?

Accepted Answer

In the event of bad weather, we’ll welcome the group inside the museum building. The building features an introductory show, a collection display, an auditorium, a workshop and a brasserie, where visitors can enjoy a snack and a drink. There’s more than enough to do, along with plenty of places to eat and drink, for a day of fun, creativity and learning!

Question 29

Where can cars and buses park?

Accepted Answer

Cars can park on our premises on Boutenslaan. We have two parking spaces for buses.

Question 30

What are suitable themes for a meeting at Museumpark VONK?

Accepted Answer

VONK stands for transformation. A new, significant moment, such as the start of a new year, a new project or, conversely, the conclusion of one. Programmes focusing on collaboration, innovation and sustainability are a perfect fit for VONK.

Question 31

Who's our caterar?

Accepted Answer

We work in partnership with Hutten Catering to provide catering services. A range of catering options are available both in the museum building’s brasserie and at Herberg Den Bonten Os; please get in touch or view our packages on the website.

Question 32

Are there lockers available?

Accepted Answer

Prefer to explore without carrying a heavy bag? No problem! Lockers are available in the cloakroom. Simply collect a key from the ticket desk and return it there after your visit.

Question 33

What age is the party suitable for?

Accepted Answer

The party is suitable for children of all ages.

Question 34

What happens if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

Come rain or shine, the party goes ahead! The museum park has several indoor spaces where children can explore, discover and take part in fun activities.

Question 35

How long does the party last?

Accepted Answer

The Kids Expedition lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Afterwards, you’re welcome to stay and explore the museum park for as long as you like.

Question 36

Can parents join the party?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please! As the party takes place in a museum with fragile and valuable objects, we ask that children are accompanied by enough adults. Please allow for at least one adult for every seven children. For example, a party of 10 children requires at least two adult supervisors. Adult supervisors can enter free of charge with a Museumkaart or at the reduced rate of €6.50 per person. The reduced rate applies to a maximum of two adult supervisors per party.

Question 37

What time does a school camp start and finish?

Accepted Answer

Our school camps always start at 10.00 am on the first day and finish at 10.00 am on the final day.

Question 38

Which days can a school camp start?

Accepted Answer

24-hour camps can start on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. 48-hour camps can start on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Frequently asked questions

Good to know