Reflections on the Tragic Fire at Café ‘T Hemeltje

Kees Kwakman, like many residents of Volendam, recalls the heartbreaking events that unfolded at Café ‘T Hemeltje on New Year’s Eve, 25 years ago. A devastating fire tragically claimed the lives of fourteen young individuals, while Kwakman, now 42, miraculously escaped the danger.

As a professional footballer, Kwakman refrained from drinking, which allowed him to vividly remember that fateful night. Just as he was preparing to leave, the fire ignited. “It grew rapidly, and within thirty seconds, the entire side of the café was engulfed in flames. Initially, it felt unreal, as if it wasn’t happening. I thought the fire would extinguish quickly; however, it became incredibly hot and dark almost immediately,” Kwakman recounted in an interview with Algemeen Dagblad.