Explore Research Management Across the Netherlands with a site visit in Utrecht, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven or Twente.
The next EARMA Annual Conference will take place in Utrecht, The Netherlands, from 5–8 May 2026. ARMA-NL (The Association for Research Managers and Administrators in the Netherlands) is proud to be entrusted with organising the networking and social activities during the first EARMA conference in Utrecht. Our initiatives are designed to enhance connection, foster community and ensure memorable interactions across the RMA community in Europe.
On all conference days, there are various activities. Whether you want to enjoy the culture of Utrecht, have a beer with your fellow RMAs, or have an energetic start of your morning, you can do it all during the social programme. On this page, you will find all information to help you plan your social activities during the conference days.
Curious about where your Dutch RMA friends work? On May 8th, you can visit their workplace during the inspiring site visit of the post-conference programme. Find all information about the site visits on this page and join us across the Netherlands.
Will we see you there? Please register for the activities on the SOCIAL EVENT REGISTRATION and the SITE VISIT REGISTRATION.
The activities are open for participants of the EARMA conference and their friends partners or family companions. Here you can find more information about the EARMA Conference 2026.
Please note the following:
- On Monday 4 May at 20:00h everyone in the Netherlands is asked to observe two minutes’ silence for National Remembrance (in NL: dodenherdenking). In many cities there are short ceremonies, and a lot of public transportation will halt during these two minutes. The NS harmony orchestra will perform the Netherlands national anthem at Utrecht Central train station just afterwards.
- On Tuesday May 5, the Netherlands celebrates 81 years since the end of World War II and being able to life in peace (in NL: bevrijdingsdag). All over the country Liberation festivals and other events are held, including in different places in Utrecht. Programs will be available soon. Just expect lots of celebrating people in the city center.
- Most Musea are, also normally, closed on Mondays and some now also on Tuesday May 5th. Please check their websites or join the networking social events organised by ARMA-NL on this page!
Domplein Highlights Tour
The fascinating story of 2000 years of history in one tour. Discover the hiddden stories of the Dom Church, dive into DOMunder’s excavations, wander through the remains of Lofen Palace and climb the first 25 meters of the iconic Dom Tower. Together, the Domplein Highlights, in the historical heart of Utrecht, tell the story of how Utrecht started as a Roman fortress at the Limes (UNESCO world heritage) and grew to become one of the Netherlands’ most important cities. Please note: this tour is suited for children aged 8 years and up and will only be given in English.
- Timeslot: 14.15 -16.00
- Duration: 105 minutes
- Max. capacity: 20
- Starting location: De winkel van Utrecht (VVV), Domplein 9
Bike Tours
Want to venture further afield? Jump on a bike – it’s the ideal way to explore!
Utrecht by bike (experienced city cyclists)
Utrecht is a cyclist’s paradise. There’s a rack full of bikes on every street corner and plenty of storage for parking. Cycling is a fantastic way to crisscross the city. Our experienced guide shows you the best parts of Utrecht and its surroundings.
- Timeslot: 11.00 -12.00, 15.00 – 16.00
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Max. capacity: 30 per tour
- Starting location: Academiegebouw, Domplein 29
Botanical Garden
In the midst of the largest science park in the Netherlands, you will find a green oasis. Utrecht University’s Botanical Gardens span 10 hectares, making them the largest academic botanical garden in the Netherlands. With over 10,000 plant species from around the world, it’s an inspiring place where nature, science, and relaxation come together. There’s something new to discover every day. During a 90m minutes guided tour you will explore and discover the beauty of our botanical gardens, especially during springtime a must-see! Don’t forget to bring your camera…
- Timeslot: 10.30 -12.00, 14.00 – 15.30
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Max. capacity: 30 per tour (2x15max)
- Starting location: Main entrance Botanical Gardens, Budapestlaan 17 (Utrecht Science Park)
Boat tour
Join us on a unique boat tour and experience the atmospheric canals of the Domstad (Utrecht). During this 90 minutes tour you will discover the waters in the historic city center and learn about the city’s rich history. Relax and sit back, drinks are included. When weather conditions permit, we will of course do open boats, otherwise, the skipper makes sure to put a roof over your head and keep you dry.
- Timeslot: 15.00-16.30, 17.00-18.30
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Max. capacity: 40 per tour
- Starting location: Oudegracht 175
Taste the Craft of Oudaen – Utrecht’s Historic Beer Experience
Discover the flavors of Oudaen’s own brewery with a guided beer tasting inside the iconic Stadskasteel. Enjoy a selection of house-brewed beers, learn about the brewing process, and explore unique tasting notes — This event includes the tour of the brewery and a tasting of 5 different beers all in a stunning historic setting.
- Date May 7th
- Time 18:30
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Max. capacity: 100 per timeslot
- Starting location: Oudegracht 99, 3511 AE Utrecht
- Costs: 40 Euro
Roll Into Fun at Utrecht’s Jeu de Boules Bar
Experience a playful and relaxed way to unwind at the Jeu de Boules Bar in Utrecht. Enjoy great drinks, tasty bites, and friendly competition as you challenge colleagues or new acquaintances on the boules lanes.
It’s the perfect spot to continue conversations and network with fellow EARMA conference participants after the event. Relax, connect, and make the most of your evening at the Jeu de Boules Bar. This event includes 5 drinks, some bites and the rent of the jeu de boule court for 2 hours.
- Date: 7 May
- Time: 18:30
- Duration: 150 minutes
- Max. capacity: 60
- Starting location: Paardenveld 3, 3511 RD Utrecht
- Costs: 50 Euro
Start Fresh with the EARMA Morning Fun Run
Kick off your day with energy and inspiration during our EARMA Morning Fun Run through the beautiful city of Utrecht. Enjoy an easy, social run alongside fellow conference participants as you take in the charming streets, canals, and morning atmosphere of the city.
It’s the perfect way to wake up, get moving, and connect with colleagues before the conference begins. Lace up, join the group, and start your day the Utrecht way!
- Date May 6 and 7
- Time: 7:00 AM
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Max. capacity: 40
- Starting location: Marga Klompébrug 3511, 3511 LC Utrecht
- Costs: 7,50 Euro
Boost Your Morning with the EARMA Calisthenics Boot camp
Wake up your body and mind with a dynamic outdoor bootcamp led by a professional trainer. Using calisthenics and bodyweight exercises, you’ll build strength, improve mobility, and energize your day — in a fun and accessible session suitable for all fitness levels.
Join fellow EARMA participants for a powerful start to the morning and enjoy an active break in the heart of Utrecht!
- Date: 6 and 7th of May
- Time: 7:00 am
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Max. capacity: 20 per timeslot
- Starting location: Jaarbeursplein 31, 3521 AL Utrecht
- Costs: 10 euro
Start Peacefully with the EARMA Morning Yoga Session
Begin your day with balance and clarity during a gentle yoga session led by a professional instructor. Stretch, breathe, and unwind as you move through calming poses designed to awaken your body and focus your mind.
Suitable for all levels, this session is a perfect way to connect with fellow EARMA participants while enjoying a peaceful start to the morning in the heart of Utrecht. Namaste!
- Date: 6 and 7th of May
- Time: 7:00 am
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Max. capacity: 20 per timeslot
- Starting location: Beatrixtheater, Utrecht
- Costs: 7,50 euro
