October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    6–7 Sep 2026

    City / country

    's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands

    Venue

    Brabanthallen

    Time

    10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for BOLD XXL 2026

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at BOLD XXL 2026 include Ace & Tate, ACID eyewear, ACOUSTIC LINE, JAPAN, Ad Lib and AHLEM.

    • Ace & Tate
    • ACID eyewear
    • ACOUSTIC LINE, JAPAN
    • Ad Lib
    • AHLEM

    Event overview

    Overview

    Bold is an optics event where opticians and suppliers come together for a large-scale presentation of the latest trends, products, developments, inspiration and much more.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Trade-only event for optical professionals; consumers not admitted.
    2. 2Over 400 exhibitors expected, showcasing a wide range of eyewear and optical products.
    3. 3Held at Brabanthallen with over 4,000 parking spaces.
    4. 4Visitors from Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
    5. 5Event celebrates its 10-year anniversary.

    Why visit

    Visitors can discover a wide range of eyewear and optical products from numerous brands, including exclusive launches and first-time appearances in the Netherlands. The event is an opportunity to stay updated on industry trends, connect with suppliers, and network with fellow optical professionals. Additionally, the venue offers ample parking and easy access, making it convenient to attend.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors can showcase their brands and products directly to a highly targeted audience of optical professionals from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The event provides a relaxed atmosphere conducive to doing business and allows brands to launch new lines specifically for this edition. With hundreds of opticians attending, it offers significant exposure and networking opportunities within the optical industry.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Opticians
    Optometrists
    Optical retailers
    Eyewear buyers
    Optical industry professionals
    Practice owners

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Eyewear manufacturers
    Lens manufacturers
    Optical equipment suppliers
    Contact lens brands
    Eyewear accessories
    Optical technology startups
    Fashion eyewear brands

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Eyeglasses
    Sunglasses
    Contact lenses
    Lenses
    Optical equipment
    Accessories
    Eyewear cases
    Cleaning products

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Brabanthallen

    Diezekade 2, 5222 AK 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands

    Facilities

    Parking

    Over 4,000 spaces, including 40 electric vehicle charging points. Accessible parking is available near every entrance for drivers with a valid European Disability Parking Permit. Pre-booking is recommended and available online from two weeks before the event. Parking is paid; on-site payment via QR codes or ticket machines is also possible.

    4,000 spaces ·

    Accessibility

    The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking near every entrance, accessible toilets, and designated seating areas. Assistance dogs are generally allowed, but it's recommended to contact the organiser in advance for large events.

    Cloakroom

    Cloakroom facilities are available for visitors.

    Charging points

    There are 40 electric vehicle charging points in the parking area.

    On-site shuttle

    The venue does not appear to have an internal shuttle. However, a free shuttle bus operates between 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station and the venue for major events.

    Food options

    On-site Catering

    On-site dining

    Parking: The](https://www.brabanthallen.nl/agenda/bold-optical-fair-bold-xxl/%22,%22google_maps_place_url%22:%22https://www.google.com/maps/place//data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x47c6ee65819003b5:0x91cdd97244523100?sa=X&ved=1t:8290&ictx=111%22,%22google_maps_embed_url%22:%22%22,%22google_place_id%22:%22%22,%22latitude%22:null,%22longitude%22:null,%22map_url%22:%22%22,%22floor_plan_page_url%22:%22%22,%22floor_plan_asset_url%22:%22%22,%22floor_plan_edition_year%22:null,%22venue_navigation_map_url%22:%22%22,%22floor_plan_url%22:%22%22,%22floor_plan_schematic%22:{%22available%22:false,%22source_url%22:%22%22,%22zones%22:[],%22notes%22:%22%22},%22parking_notes%22:%22The) Brabanthallen has over 4,000 parking spaces. Parking is available on the large lot next to the venue. Visitors can pre-book parking online.

    Gate: Entrances & Accessibility: Disabled parking spaces are located specifically near Entrance A (ingang A) and the Central Entrance (Centrale Entree). Attendee Entry: When arriving at the entrance, attendees must present the QR code received via email (after requesting a free ticket online) to be scanned. Hostesses at the entrance will then issue the official entry ticket. Vehicle Entry (Parking Gates): When driving onto the Brabanthallen grounds, attendees can drive directly into the parking lot without having to pull a parking ticket at the barrier (slagboom). Parking attendants, if present, will guide vehicles to an available spot. To exit, a barcode (purchased online or at a machine inside) will be required to open the gate.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only
    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Sunday] (https://bold-opticalfair.nl%22, %22https://bold-opticalfair.nl/deelnemers/%22, %22https://www.brabanthallen.nl/agenda/bold-optical-fair-bold-xxl/%22, %22https://parkeren.brabanthallen.nl/en/%22]}, %22event_schedule%22:{%22event_hours%22:%22Sunday) 6 September 2026:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Monday 7 September 2026:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    • Visitor

      Free entry with online registration.

    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Tickets are sent via email with a QR code; scan the QR code at the entrance to receive your entry ticket.

    Ticket notes

    BOLD is exclusively accessible to opticians, optometrists and/or optical industry employees. Consumers are not admitted. Ticket requests by third parties and/or without a company name and/or valid VAT number are rejected or cancelled.

    Registration deadline

    2026-06-06

    Build-up & tear-down

    Setup starts2026-09-05 [based on 2024 edition]
    Setup ends2026-09-06 [based on 2024 edition]
    Teardown starts2026-09-07 [based on 2024 edition]
    Teardown ends2026-09-07 [based on 2024 edition]

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Bold Optical Fair

    Event organiser

    Space-Only

    Organising/production partner

    Terressa

    Team BOLD

    Walter

    Team BOLD

    Guusje

    Space-Only

    What's on

    Programme

    Co-located events

    BOLD Light 2026 (spring edition)

    Separate ticket

    Centrop

    Separate ticket

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Visitors

    2,750

    Exhibitors

    411

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Eyecare Square

      New zone at BOLD XXL 2025 where optometrists and opticians could attend expert-led talks on modern eye care, bridging clinical knowledge with practical retail application.

      Source
    • 2

      Luxury Lounge

      Dedicated area at BOLD XXL 2024 featuring an upscale lounge experience, an extensive catering plaza, and an Italian à-la-carte restaurant.

      Source
    • 3

      BOLD Stage

      New stage at BOLD XXL 2024 featuring creative dance performances by Collab Industry from Amsterdam.

      Source

    Testimonials

    It was an overwhelming success and in two days we received more than 2750 visitors. We and our participants feel very honored that you have visited Bold XXL.

    Organisation · Organiser · Bold Optical Fair · 2023

    I love going to these shows in different countries, because it gives you a flavor of what's going on as far as the people, culture, and business environment.

    David Friedfeld · Owner · Clearvision Optical (USA) · 2023

    Next edition outlook

    2026-09-06 – 2026-09-07
    medium

    BOLD XXL 2026 takes place 6-7 September at the Brabanthallen in 's-Hertogenbosch, celebrating the fair's 10th anniversary, following the earlier BOLD Light spring edition held 2 March 2026.

    10th anniversary programming and retrospective content around the show's origins in Nijkerk Continued participation from merged legacy shows Centrop and Hall of Frames under the Bold banner

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    BOLD XXL has grown from a small optical show in Nijkerk into the leading Benelux trade fair for independent opticians, drawing over 2,700 visitors and more than 335-360 exhibiting eyewear brands in its 2024 and 2025 editions at the Brabanthallen. The 2026 edition marks the fair's tenth anniversary and follows the merger of former Dutch shows Hall of Frames and Centrop Sales into the Bold Optical Fair banner.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    BOLD is a trade-only event restricted to opticians, optometrists, and optical industry employees, drawing independent opticians primarily from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, with some visitors from further afield in past editions.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Prior editions have attracted large exhibitor lineups (335+ confirmed brands for 2025, 360+ for 2024) and thousands of trade visitors, giving exhibitors direct access to independent opticians across the Benelux and neighboring German market; no official ROI or lead-generation metrics have been published by the organiser.

    Intelligence

    Exhibitors

    277

    Exhibitors

    9

    Categories

    11

    Countries

    11

    Pavilions

    Top exhibitor countries

    Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

    • Nederland
      123
    • Luxemburg
      41
    • Netherlands
      36
    • Duitsland
      35
    • Germany
      19
    • België
      14
    • Spain
      3
    • France
      2
    • Italy
      2
    • Switzerland
      1

    Category breakdown

    1~189
    estimate
    2~45
    estimate
    3~13
    estimate
    4~11
    estimate
    5~6
    estimate
    6~6
    estimate
    7~4
    estimate
    8~2
    estimate
    9~1
    estimate

    National pavilions

    Nederland

    ~123 stands
    estimate

    Luxemburg

    ~41 stands
    estimate

    Netherlands

    ~36 stands
    estimate

    Duitsland

    ~35 stands
    estimate

    Germany

    ~19 stands
    estimate

    België

    ~14 stands
    estimate

    Spain

    ~3 stands
    estimate

    France

    ~2 stands
    estimate

    Italy

    ~2 stands
    estimate

    Switzerland

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Sweden

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Buyer targets

    High priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Optical Frame & Eyewear Manufacturers

    Buyers sourcing

    Other Optical Eyewear Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Acetate & Handmade Eyewear Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Contact Lens & Vision Care Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Sunglasses Suppliers

    Medium priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Luxury & Designer Eyewear Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Children's Eyewear Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Reading Glasses & Magnifier Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Eyewear Case & Accessories Suppliers

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Europe (Benelux focus, with wider European/global eyewear market context)

    Why it matters

    BOLD XXL sits within a growing European eyewear market (about USD 60.7 billion in 2025, projected 3.8 percent CAGR) and a global eyewear market moving toward USD 300 billion-plus by the mid-2030s, giving exhibitors access to a resilient, demographically-driven demand base. As the Benelux region's largest dedicated optical trade fair, it functions as a regional anchor within a busy annual circuit of European and global eyewear shows (opti Munich, MIDO, SILMO, 100% Optical), letting independent brands and opticians from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany connect without traveling to larger, more diffuse international shows.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Steady European eyewear market growth

    The Europe eyewear market was estimated at USD 60.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 3.8 percent through 2035, driven by an aging population and rising prevalence of vision problems, supporting continued demand for the independent opticians BOLD XXL targets.

    Source
    02

    Smart and connected eyewear scrutiny

    Major eyewear players like EssilorLuxottica posted revenue growth in early 2026 but faced investor doubts about the pace of smart glasses adoption, signalling that connected eyewear remains a closely watched but still-unproven growth category for exhibitors.

    Source
    03

    Sustainable and 3D-printed materials

    Industry trend reports for 2026 highlight rising adoption of 3D-printed frame technology and sustainable optical materials as differentiators for independent eyewear brands, a theme relevant to BOLD's mix of established and boutique exhibitors.

    Source
    04

    Luxury eyewear bifurcation

    The luxury eyewear segment is splitting between craft-driven, material-engineered frames and traditional logo-led licensing models, a dynamic that shapes how premium exhibitors position their 2026 collections at trade fairs.

    Source
    05

    Direct-to-consumer and digital retail growth

    Growth of direct-to-consumer online eyewear platforms is reshaping how brands use trade shows like BOLD XXL, increasingly for building independent-optician relationships rather than only wholesale order-taking.

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    2026-04-23

    EssilorLuxottica shares slip despite revenue growth

    EssilorLuxottica reported 10.8 percent constant-currency revenue growth for Q1 2026, but shares fell about 5 percent on investor doubts over smart glasses growth prospects and a demanding full-year outlook.

    Read
    2026-05-12

    Global eyewear market entering transformative growth phase

    Future Market Insights projects the global eyewear market reaching USD 342.6 billion by 2036, driven by demand for medical-grade vision solutions, smart connected eyewear, premium fashion frames, and sustainable materials.

    Read
    2026-05-26

    Bold Optical Fair marks its 10th anniversary

    Trade press coverage notes that BOLD XXL 2026, held 6-7 September at the Brabanthallen, celebrates ten years since Bold Optical Fair began on a site in Nijkerk, reflecting the show's growth into a leading Benelux optical trade fair.

    Read
    2026-03-31

    Europe eyewear market sized at USD 60.7 billion

    A market research report values the Europe eyewear market at USD 60.7 billion in 2025, forecasting 3.8 percent CAGR growth through 2035 on the back of an aging population and rising vision-care needs.

    Read
    2026-03-08

    BOLD Light 2026 spring edition draws positive review

    Organisers reported a positive outcome from the BOLD Light spring buying event held 2 March 2026 in Den Bosch, describing efficient structures and strong contacts among independent opticians from Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

    Read

    European and global eyewear trade show circuit around BOLD XXL 2026

    Next 6-12 months (September 2026 to mid-2027)

    BOLD XXL 2026 (6-7 September, 's-Hertogenbosch) sits in a dense annual calendar of optical trade fairs. The main global anchor events cluster in January-March (opti Munich, MIDO Milan, 100% Optical London) and again in September (SILMO Paris), positioning BOLD XXL as a regional Benelux-focused complement to these larger international shows.

    25–28 Sep 2026

    SILMO Paris

    Paris, France

    Held about three weeks after BOLD XXL 2026; MIDO confirmed a stand at SILMO Paris Hall 6.

    website
    19–22 Nov 2026

    SILMO Istanbul

    Istanbul, Turkey

    (2025 dates referenced; check organiser site for confirmed 2026 dates) Positioned as a bridge fair between Europe and the Middle East.

    website
    16–18 Jan 2027

    opti Munich

    Munich, Germany

    opti team members visited BOLD XXL 2025 to scout trends, indicating overlap in exhibitor/visitor interest between the two shows.

    website
    31 Jan – 2 Feb 2027

    MIDO Milan

    Milan, Italy

    Dates reflect the prior-cycle pattern (2026 edition held 31 Jan-2 Feb); confirm 2027 dates on MIDO's official site.

    website
    28 Feb – 2 Mar 2027

    100% Optical

    London, United Kingdom

    (2026 dates referenced) Confirm exact 2027 dates on the organiser's official site.

    website

    Post-BOLD XXL 2026 autumn window

    SILMO ParisSILMO Istanbul

    Exhibitors attending BOLD XXL in September can extend their European tour with SILMO Paris in late September and SILMO Istanbul in November.

    New-year global optical fair window

    Opti MunichMIDO Milan100% Optical

    January-March is the busiest period for global eyewear trade fairs, offering exhibitors a chance to follow up on BOLD XXL contacts at larger international shows before the next BOLD cycle (BOLD Light spring edition, then BOLD XXL again in September).

    Circuit dates are compiled from organiser websites and industry trade press; some 2027 dates are inferred from the prior-year cycle and should be confirmed directly with each organiser closer to the date.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · EUR

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    EIN

    Eindhoven Airport

    Closest major airport. Accessible by car/taxi via the A2 motorway. Public transport options include bus and train (approx. 1h 15m).

    33 km

    to venue

    30–35 minutes

    by car

    AMS

    Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

    Largest international hub. Direct hourly trains from Schiphol to 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station take about 1 hour.

    78–92 km

    to venue

    ~1 hour (train) or ~1 hour by car

    by car

    BRU

    Brussels Airport

    International airport in Belgium, a secondary option for those flying from outside the Netherlands.

    ~105 km

    to venue

    ~1.5 hours

    by car

    DUS

    Düsseldorf Airport

    Major German airport, another alternative for international travellers.

    ~112 km

    to venue

    ~1.5 hours

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    budget
    City centre / near Central Station

    USD 80–100 / night

    Budget options include hostels, basic hotels, and apartments. Examples: Little Duke Hotel (from $80/night), Campanile Hotel & Restaurant 'S Hertogenbosch. Prices are estimates for September 2026.

    mid range
    City centre / near Central Station

    USD 101–150 / night

    Comfortable 3-4 star hotels with good amenities. Examples: Golden Tulip Hotel Central (from $126), Good Seasons City Centre Hotel Den Bosch (from $122), Hotel Julien (from $135), The Duke Apartments (from $114). The average hotel price in 's-Hertogenbosch is around $140/night.

    premium
    City centre / historic districts

    USD 151–250 / night

    Upscale 4-5 star boutique hotels and luxury stays. Examples: The Den, 's-Hertogenbosch, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (Marriott, from $126), The Duke Boutique Hotel (from $127), Hotel 't Keershuys. Premium rooms and suites may exceed $250.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Train

    Estimated cost€15–€30 (one way)
    Best for's-Hertogenbosch Central Station to/from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), Eindhoven, Utrecht, and other major cities

    Direct intercity trains run frequently. The station is a 10-minute walk from Brabanthallen.

    Bus

    Estimated cost€2–€5 (single ticket)
    Best forMultiple bus routes from 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station to the venue and surrounding areas

    Various bus lines stop near the venue. For larger events, special shuttle buses may operate from the station. Check 9292.nl for real-time schedules.

    Taxi / Ride-hail

    Estimated cost€10–€20 (within city); €50–€80 (to Eindhoven Airport)
    Best forThroughout 's-Hertogenbosch and to/from airports

    Taxis are available at the station and throughout the city. Uber and other ride-hail apps operate in the Netherlands.

    Bicycle

    Estimated cost€10–€15 (daily rental)
    Best forCity centre, venue, and surrounding areas

    The Netherlands is bike-friendly. Many hotels offer bicycle rental. The venue is a short bike ride from the city centre.

    Car / Parking

    Estimated costParking: €10–€15 per day (estimate)
    Best forBrabanthallen is accessible via A2, A59, A65 motorways (exit 46)

    Over 4,000 parking spaces, including 40 EV charging points. Pre-book parking at parkeren.brabanthallen.nl. Accessible parking available near entrances.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa not required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    No visa required (EU/EEA/Switzerland nationals)Nationals of EU/EEA member states and SwitzerlandNot yet confirmedNot applicable
    Schengen short-stay visa (Type C)Non-EEA/non-Swiss nationals from countries with a Schengen visa requirement, visiting for 90 days or less within a 180-day period, including for business/trade fair visitsNot yet confirmedStandard Schengen processing is generally up to 15 calendar days, extendable to 30-60 days in some cases per Schengen rules; exact IND timelines vary by consulate
    Airport transit visaNationals of certain countries transiting through a Dutch airport en route to/from a non-Schengen country without entering the Schengen areaNot yet confirmedSame as Schengen visa processing

    Visa requirements are nationality-dependent. EEA and Swiss citizens travel visa-free. Many other nationalities (e.g. under EU visa-liberalisation agreements) can enter visa-free for short stays; others require a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa. The Dutch government provides an online IND tool where a traveler enters their nationality to check whether a short-stay visa is required.

    The Netherlands accepts ATA Carnets for temporary import/export of exhibition goods, trade samples, and professional equipment such as optical fair display materials, avoiding VAT, import duties, and deposits. Carnets are issued in the Netherlands by KVK (Netherlands Chamber of Commerce) and are valid up to one year for multiple trips within ATA Convention countries.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    September in 's-Hertogenbosch is mild and often pleasant. Average high temperatures range from 19–23°C (66–73°F), with lows around 10–13°C (50–55°F). Rainfall is moderate, with about 57 mm of precipitation expected during the month. Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are advisable.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Brabanthallen is conveniently located near the A2, A59, and A65 motorways, less than a 40-minute drive from major cities like Eindhoven, Tilburg, Breda, and Utrecht. 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the venue. A free shuttle bus often operates between the station and the venue for major events.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Direct Communication

    Dutch people are known for their direct and straightforward communication style. In business settings, this is seen as a sign of honesty and efficiency, not rudeness.

    Punctuality

    Being on time for meetings and appointments is highly valued in the Netherlands. It's considered a sign of respect for others' time.

    Language

    While Dutch is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourist settings. You will have no trouble communicating in English.

    Cashless Society

    The Netherlands is largely a cashless society. Debit cards (Maestro) and credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some Euros for small purchases or at markets.

    Tipping Etiquette

    Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in the Netherlands. A tip of around 10% for good service in restaurants is common, and rounding up the bill is a standard practice.

    Bicycle Culture

    The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture. 's-Hertogenbosch is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city and even reach the venue, which is about a 10-minute bike ride from the station.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

    Book flights well in advance for the best prices. Eindhoven is served by several low-cost carriers, while Schiphol offers a wider range of full-service airlines.

    Visa

    EEA/Swiss nationals do not need a visa. Other nationals may need a Schengen short-stay (Type C) visa for a business visit of 90 days or less within any 180-day period, typically supported by an invitation letter from the Dutch host company or event organiser.

    Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

    Processing: Up to 15 calendar days standard, potentially extended to 30-60 days for individual cases per Schengen rules

    No BOLD-specific visa invitation-letter service was found on bold-opticalfair.nl; exhibitors/visitors needing a visa should request an invitation letter directly from their exhibiting company or Dutch business contact and apply at the relevant Dutch embassy/consulate.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Check-in (recommended)

    2026-09-05

    Check-out (recommended)

    2026-09-08

    Areas to stay

    City centre (Binnenstad-Centrum) · Near 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station · Vught (adjacent suburb, quieter)

    budget

    $80–$100

    mid range

    $101–$150

    premium

    $151–$250+

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Eindhoven Airport (EIN) is the closest, ~30 min drive. Train from EIN to 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station takes ~1h 15m. Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) has direct trains to 's-Hertogenbosch (~1h).

    Hotel → venue: Most city centre hotels are a 10-20 minute walk or short taxi/bus ride. Bicycle is also a convenient option.

    Ride-hail: Uber and local taxis available. Taxis can be booked via apps or at the station.

    Public transit: Buses and trains connect the city. The venue is a 10-minute walk from 's-Hertogenbosch Central Station. Use 9292.nl for trip planning.

    Parking: Over 4,000 on-site spaces, including 40 EV charging points. Pre-booking recommended via parkeren.brabanthallen.nl. Accessible parking available.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: September

    Temperature: 10°C – 23°C (50°F – 73°F)

    Seasonality: Moderate rainfall, average 57 mm.

    Packing: Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella is also recommended.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    T-60

    Confirm you meet trade-only entry rules (company name + valid VAT number) before registering — BOLD XXL is closed to consumers; ticket requests without a company name/VAT are refused.

    T-45

    Register for a free visitor ticket — Free tickets must be requested no later than 3 months before the show per the organiser.

    T-30

    Book hotel in 's-Hertogenbosch if staying overnight — Only a handful of hotels sit in the compact city centre; rooms near the fair dates sell out.

    T-21

    Book flights or plan the drive/train — Eindhoven Airport is ~30 min away; Den Bosch Centraal is a 15-minute walk from the hall.

    T-14

    Shortlist target exhibitors, brands, and categories to visit — Use the provisional exhibitor list on the organiser site, which updates weekly.

    T-10

    Pre-book online parking to skip the pay machine queue — €12/day at parkeren.brabanthallen.nl; you get an exit barcode by email.

    T-7

    Prepare meeting requests and a follow-up template for priority suppliers

    T-1

    Save badge confirmation, floor plan, and cloakroom cash (€2 coat / €4 bag) — Cloakroom is PIN/cash; confirm current policy on-site.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:30

    Arrive and park (pre-book online, €12/day)

    Brabanthallen car park
    09:45

    Collect badge and floor map at the entrance ahead of opening

    Brabanthallen main entrance
    10:00

    Walk the floor, prioritizing shortlisted exhibitor stands

    Exhibition floor
    12:30

    Lunch at the on-site bar/restaurant (PIN payment)

    Exhibition floor restaurant/bar
    14:00

    Drop into an Eye Health Square talk (no sign-up needed; check on-site schedule)

    Eye Health Square
    16:00

    Follow-up meetings with priority suppliers, confirm orders

    Exhibition floor
    17:30

    Cloakroom pickup (€2 coat / €4 bag) and head out before close

    Brabanthallen main entrance

    Side trips

    5

    Sint-Janskathedraal (St. John's Cathedral)

    Landmark / Church

    Den Bosch's Gothic cathedral and one of the city's most iconic sights, in the historic centre.

    ~2 km, 10 min drive from Brabanthallen

    Het Noordbrabants Museum

    Museum

    Regional art museum in an 18th-century palace with Brabant masters and international works, in Bosch's home city.

    ~2 km from the venue

    Jheronimus Bosch Art Center

    Museum / Gallery

    Dedicated to Den Bosch-born painter Hieronymus Bosch, with reproductions and background on his work.

    ~2 km, city centre

    De Bossche Markt (market square)

    Square / Food & Shopping

    Historic market square lined with cafes — the classic spot to try a Bossche bol pastry.

    ~2 km, city centre

    Efteling theme park

    Attraction / Day Trip

    One of Europe's oldest and largest theme parks; a good half-day extension if staying longer.

    ~35-40 min drive

    Networking spots

    3

    BOLD central bar / show floor

    Event Bar

    Event-hosted food & drink area on the exhibition floor with PIN payment and live DJ both days; confirm the 2026 party-night sponsor and timing on-site, as this has changed by edition.

     

    Tony's Bar, Golden Tulip Hotel Central

    Hotel Bar

    Recommendation, not event-affiliated — live jazz on the first Friday of the month; a short walk from the market square, popular with visiting trade professionals.

     

    De Bossche Markt terraces

    Square / Bars & Cafes

    Recommendation, not event-affiliated — Den Bosch's central square has several terrace bars, a relaxed spot for informal after-fair conversations.

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Shell scheme

    EUR 144.75–232.5 / m²

    Raw space

    EUR 105 / m²

    Standard booth

    12 m²

    (2025 data) Official BOLD XXL 2026 exhibitor pricing page was not found; figures are from the BOLD XXL 2025 participant information page, the most recent published exhibitor rates. Shell scheme prices are fixed per stand type rather than pure per-sqm rates: Start-up stand 6 sqm = EUR 1395, 4x3m stand 12 sqm = EUR 2295, 5x4m stand 20 sqm = EUR 2895, Luxury Lounge 20 sqm = EUR 3595. Space Only (raw floor) is EUR 105 per sqm with a 20 sqm minimum.

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 12 m² × $216.50/m²$2,598.00
    • Hotel × 2 nights$200.00
    Estimated total$2,798.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Start-up stand, 6 sqm (2025 data)

    exhibitor · entry

    EUR 1395 / per stand

    estimateAs of 2025

    4x3m shell scheme stand, 12 sqm (2025 data)

    exhibitor · standard

    EUR 2295 / per stand

    estimateAs of 2025

    5x4m shell scheme stand, 20 sqm (2025 data)

    exhibitor · standard-large

    EUR 2895 / per stand

    estimateAs of 2025

    Luxury Lounge stand, 20 sqm, premium furniture (2025 data)

    exhibitor · premium

    EUR 3595 / per stand

    estimateAs of 2025

    Space Only raw floor, min 20 sqm (2025 data)

    exhibitor · space-only

    EUR 105 / per sqm

    estimateAs of 2025

    Standard furniture set rental add-on (2025 data)

    exhibitor · add-on

    EUR 395 / flat fee

    estimateAs of 2025

    Media package add-on, PRINT vs ALL-IN (2025 data)

    exhibitor · add-on

    EUR 40–55 / flat fee

    estimateAs of 2025

    Visitor/exhibitor parking, online ticket

    both · standard

    EUR 12 / per day

    officialAs of 2026-07-31

    Hotel, budget tier per night (Den Bosch city centre)

    both · budget

    USD 97–121 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-31

    Hotel, mid tier per night (Golden Tulip Hotel Central)

    both · mid

    USD 160–190 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-31

    Hotel, premium tier per night (The Den, Tribute Portfolio)

    both · premium

    USD 189 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-31

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    Is your core business independent optical retail or supply in the Netherlands, Belgium, or Germany?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    You have buying authority in eyewear/optics and can reach 's-Hertogenbosch within a day trip or short stay.

    Best for

    Opticians, optometrists, and optical retail buyers in the Netherlands, Belgium, or Germany sourcing new frames, lenses, and accessories for the season.

    Min. budget

    $150.00

    Timeline

    Register at least T-45; request free tickets no later than 3 months ahead.

    Risks

    Trade-only event: entry requires a company name and valid VAT number

    Limited city-centre hotel stock near the show dates

    exhibit

    You have an eyewear/optical product with regional distribution goals and can commit to booth build costs 3+ months out.

    Best for

    Eyewear, lens, contact lens, and optical-technology brands targeting independent opticians across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

    Min. budget

    $1,600.00

    Timeline

    Begin at T-90 to secure stand type and location before preferred stands sell out.

    Risks

    2026 exhibitor pricing not yet officially published; figures below are 2025 rates

    Space-only stands require a minimum 4 m build height and separate stand-build arrangements

    Limited Luxury Lounge (purple) stand availability

    skip

    Category fit, budget, or lead time are all weak, or the event falls outside your target geography.

    Best for

    Businesses outside eyewear/optics, without Benelux/Germany buyer relevance, or without budget/time to prepare properly.

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    Not applicable

    Risks

    Opportunity cost if a directly relevant regional buying event is missed

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    BOLD XXL
    The large-scale edition of the BOLD Optical Fair, held annually.
    2
    Opticiens
    Dutch term for opticians.
    3
    Optometristen
    Dutch term for optometrists.
    4
    Brabanthallen
    The venue in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, hosting the event.

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