Tourists come all the way from America, Germany, France and England to see the bonfires.
In Scheveningen, the first bonfire after Christmas were probably lit around 1850.
After World War II, The Hague became the center of New Year celebration.
Fights between rival gangs often resulted in injuries.
The police tried to keep the situation under control by designating six congregation places where bonfires could be lit.
These unstable structures became a fire hazard.
They could only use wooden crates.
No tire burning or Christmas tree burning was allowed.
Some neighborhoods took part for a year or two and then quit.
The only two groups that remained are Scheveningen and Duindorp.
Now most neighborhoods who wishes to take part either side with Scheveningen or with Duindorp.
This year Duindorp won the battle again.
