Veendam’s town centre held an Animal Day on Saturday, featuring a large koala that visitors could crawl against and a doctor in a bear costume who offered hugs. The event was described as well attended and focused on animals and hugging. An autumn fashion show was also scheduled for Saturday 17 October at Veenlustplein. Clothing shops in the centre were due to present their autumn collections, with mostly people from the surrounding area rather than professional models taking part.