ROTTERDAM, 18 June 2025 – A symbolic barrel of herring was presented to Huib Lloyd during the 30th edition of the Rotterdamse Haringparty, marking both the event’s anniversary and Lloyd’s work with children growing up in poverty. The uniquely decorated barrel was created by local artist Tymon de Laat.
Haringparty honours charity founder with painted herring barrel
The 30th edition of the annual Rotterdamse Haringparty took place in the garden of the Bilderberg Parkhotel. A highlight of the event was the ceremonial presentation of the first barrel of herring (haringvaatje), traditionally decorated by a local artist. This year’s painted barrel was created by Rotterdam-based artist Tymon de Laat and awarded to Huib Lloyd, founder and director of Stichting Jarige Job.
Originally from Rotterdam, Huib Lloyd established Stichting Jarige Job ("Birthday Job Foundation") in response to the quiet but widespread problem of birthday poverty in the Netherlands. The organisation provides birthday boxes to families who cannot afford to celebrate their children’s birthdays. Each box contains cake mix, decorations, small gifts, and party supplies—everything a child needs to feel celebrated on their special day.
Over the past 15 years, the foundation has supported hundreds of thousands of children across the country, helping to reduce the social exclusion that poverty can bring. Lloyd’s work has gained recognition for bringing attention to a hidden but pressing issue in Dutch society.
Clarissa Slingerland, owner of PR agency MissPublicity and co-organiser of the Haringparty, remarked: “With his passion for children’s well-being and his determination to make a difference, Huib Lloyd deserves this special recognition.”
Artistic tribute by Tymon de Laat
To mark the occasion, artist Tymon de Laat transformed the herring barrel into a colourful artwork. Known for his distinctive portrait murals around the city, De Laat described the design as a personal homage to his early work in Rotterdam.
“I created a remake of my first major portrait mural in Rotterdam – a significant moment that signalled the beginning of a new phase in my international career,” said De Laat.
His contribution brought an artistic flourish to the event, aligning with the Haringparty’s tradition of combining culture with social engagement.
Huib Lloyd of Stichting Jarige Job receives art barrel at 30th Rotterdam Haringparty for his work supporting children in poverty across the Netherlands.
A gathering of Rotterdammers from all walks of life
Hosted annually by the Bilderberg Parkhotel in partnership with MissPublicity, Koninklijke Schmidt Zeevis, and Audi Centrum Rotterdam, the Rotterdamse Haringparty is a longstanding networking event where business leaders, cultural figures, creatives, and other locals gather to mark the arrival of the Hollandse Nieuwe (new season herring).
The 2025 edition coincided with the recent opening of the Parkhotel’s French-inspired bistro. Guests enjoyed a selection of dishes from the new menu alongside traditional herring, served in a relaxed and festive garden setting. MiP rosé (Made in Provence) was poured from magnums to accompany the summer fare.
Erik de Wit, director of the Parkhotel, noted: “We give the Haringparty a new theme every year, introducing new initiatives and collaborations. This year, the French bistro served as our inspiration.”
Bilderberg Parkhotel
The Haringparty took place in the inner garden of the Bilderberg Parkhotel, located on Westersingel. The area, nestled in the heart of Rotterdam, is surrounded by cultural institutions, boutique shops, and green spaces. Easily accessible by public transport and a short walk from Rotterdam Centraal Station.
