In Praise of Quiet, Foggy Evenings

It was a cold evening in January, and as I looked out of my window I could see the fog settling over the city, which created an excitement that had me immediately dressed and ready to go outside. It was one of the few foggy days that we’d had that week, but I can never get enough of seeing the city covered in the blurry blanket. I love the way fog muffles the usual sounds, softens the lights, and creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere. As part of my mental health routine, I do a daily walk, no matter the weather.

On those foggy days, I sometimes did two daily walks, to experience the fog during the day but also in the evenings. Alkmaar’s historical city centre, where I live now, is a very pretty place. In the evenings, the orange glow of the street lamps and the tree lights, which are there the entire winter, make the city look like out of a fairy tale.

Walking around in that atmosphere — the reality blurred and the streets quiet, fills me with energy. It’s like I enter one of the fantasy novels I’ve been reading lately. There were few people in the city, and the occasional footsteps on the cobbled streets sounded as if they were coming from another dimension.

I used to think foggy nights in Amsterdam were the most magical and romantic, but Alkmaar is on another level. After I glide through the streets once, taking photos, I like to go around again, this time all devices put away, and just let myself dream, encouraged by the dreamy atmosphere. In a world filled with noise and busyness, those foggy evenings are a welcome escape. I like how they invite us to slow down and embrace the stillness, which we should do every day for a few moments at least, but we often forget. I’m glad I took my camera as well, to capture this mood and be able to show it to you as well. Any other fans of foggy evenings out there?

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