From the Middle Ages to the early modern period, Zonhoven and its neighboring villages belonged to the Land of Vogelsanck.

At a certain point in history, language users were no longer aware of the original meaning of the old name Sonuwe.

Contrary to common belief, the first part of the place name Zonhoven does not refer to the sun as a star.

As a result of this misunderstanding, several businesses, schools, and sports clubs have incorporated the prefixes 'zon-' or 'sun-' into their names and depicted the sun or a sundial in their logos.

Examples include the primary school De Zonnewijzer, the beer Zonderik, café 't Zonnehof, and the baseball club Sunville Tigers.

During the Middle Ages, Zonhoven was part of the County of Loon, a feudal state within the Holy Roman Empire.

The region experienced its share of historical events, including the turbulence of the Eighty Years' War (1568–1648), which had a significant impact on the Low Countries.

On November 18, 1833, the Treaty of Zonhoven was signed in the house named De Franse Kroon between representatives of the Netherlands and Belgium to establish special regulations over the use of the river Meuse by the signatories.

The village expanded, and its population grew as industries such as coal mining and textile production took root in the area.

Its rich history is evident in its architecture, with some buildings dating back centuries, coexisting with more recent developments.

The largest indoor sports facility in Zonhoven is the events hall Den Dijk in the village center.

Volleyball clubs Topsport Davozon (women) and VC Helios (men) play their home games there.

Each of the four parishes is equipped with kindergarten and primary education: 'De Horizon' in Terdonk, 'De Lettermolen' in Termolen, 'De St@rtbaan' in Halveweg, and 'De Zonnewijzer' in the center.