Dutch police prevent “Project X”-style party in Joure, disperse 200 attendees
Authorities deployed a large police presence in Joure on Thursday night to prevent an illegal “Project X”-style party, following social media calls for the event on Okserwei street. The mayor of De Fryske Marren issued an emergency ordinance to prevent a “serious disturbance of public order,” according to Omrop Fryslân.
The police set up extensive controls on the roads leading to Joure, checking everyone entering the town. Officers, including K9 units with trained dogs, were stationed at the planned party location.
Around 11:30 p.m., the police instructed attendees to leave the area. By midnight, the Leeuwarder Courant reported that the streets were calmer and the roads had been reopened.
Reports indicated that roughly 200 people had gathered near the planned party location before being dispersed, with additional riot police (ME) en route.
Authorities have faced similar challenges before. In 2018, there was a threatened “Project X” party in Katwijk, part of Cuijk municipality.
The event had originated from a young girl’s innocent Facebook announcement about a party on Friday. By Wednesday afternoon, more than 15,000 people indicated they would attend. WhatsApp groups were used to arrange transport and bring alcohol. Facebook eventually removed the event.
In 2012, a Project X-style party in Haren spiraled out of control. After a public Facebook invitation for a girl’s 16th birthday, thousands of young people descended on the Groningen town. The gathering quickly turned chaotic, with reports of violence, vandalism, and arson, according to the broadcaster.
The term “Project X” comes from a 2012 movie about three high school students who attempt to gain fame by throwing an enormous party.
