The similarity between the names of Holambra, 130 kilometers from São Paulo, and a certain European country is no mere coincidence. The municipality of 15,000 inhabitants was founded in 1948 as a colony of Dutch immigrants, who named it after the first syllables of the words Holland, America, and Brazil.
The municipality still preserves itsforeign roots, which influence not only its architecture, but also its culture and cuisine. Therefore, strolling through Holambra means finding a piece of Europe in the interior of São Paulo, experiencing a cultural immersion in the beauty of the Netherlands.
What to do in Holambra: flowers and unmissable events
The most anticipated event on the local calendar is undoubtedly Expoflora. Since 1981, the fair has celebrated the arrival of spring with dazzling displays, the Flower Parade, and the famous Petal Rain, which uses 18,000 hand-picked rosebuds . It is the largest flower fair in Latin America.
If you are unable to visit the city in September, don’t worry: in Holambra, you can enjoy beautiful flower fields all year round! Just visit Bloemen Park, which brings together dozens of ornamental plants and 30 varieties of roses in 40,000 square meters. The space also has pet-friendly infrastructure, a kids’ area, and gastronomy.
Discover the culture and flavors of “Brazilian Holland”
To truly feel like you are in Holland, visit the Moinho Povos Unidos(United Peoples Windmill), considered the tallest in Latin America. The construction is 38.5 meters high and bears the signature of specialist Jan Heijdra, who designed a faithful replica of 17th-century Dutch designs.
After the historical tour, it’s time to indulge in the typical cuisine. The Old Dutch restaurant, for example, is famous for its pork knuckle with sauerkraut, while the Zoet en Zout bakery offers authentic Strudel, Stroopwafel, and Appeltaart. Delicious options to end the day with the traditional flavors of the Netherlands!
