Magical forest light show De Grote Schijn in Rotterdam

HAPPENING 16 OCT–2 NOV 2025 | The mesmerising display of nature and technology, De Grote Schijn, is returning to Rotterdam's Kralingse Bos for the autumn break. A sublime fusion of nature, music, and technology, the 2 km evening walk offers an immersive experience to its visitors. 

What is De Grote Schijn?

De Grote Schijn (The Great Shine) is a special evening walk for young and old. Nature plays the leading role in a special audiovisual spectacle and the forest and park are used as a natural backdrop, where visitors experience a light show that creates amazement. Supposedly, it is as if the forest has been put under a magic spell; trees seem to come alive, mushrooms have been plucked from a fairy tale and are given a luminous glow while a new surprise awaits behind every bush. Through light, sound and scents, eyes, ears and noses go on an adventure. There are no fairy creatures or evil wizards who spread their magic and bring the forest to life, everything comes from a strong piece of technology.

A shared experience in the forest

This year’s edition adds Samen Schijnen (“Shining Together”), a time slot designed for solo visitors. Participants purchase an individual ticket, but walk in a small group hosted by the organisation. The initiative responds to the high percentage of loneliness in Rotterdam and coincides with the national Week against Loneliness. After the walk, visitors can gather around the fire to talk.

New scenes in 2025

Nature remains the central theme, but each edition brings new installations. One of the highlights this year is an underwater world created with projections, mirrors and 800 light cords, giving the illusion of hundreds of jellyfish floating above the path.

Since 2019, De Grote Schijn has grown into one of Rotterdam’s autumn fixtures. Using light, sound, scent and acoustic effects, the forest becomes a multi-sensory environment where technology and nature merge.

A nature-inspired audiovisual spectacle

De Grote Schijn 📷 Andreas Terlaak

Event detals and ticket information

De Grote Schijn 📷 Andreas Terlaak

Directions to the event

Kralingse Bos is located east of the city centre, accessible by tram and metro via Voorschoterlaan or Gerdesiaweg, and by bicycle from Rotterdam Centraal in around 15 minutes. Parking is available at multiple entrances to the forest.