This year, the municipality of Rotterdam is joining forces with a number of cultural institutions to organise a programme of winter-themed events, spread out across the entire city.
The festive kick-off of the winter season is on Friday, 8th of December. The doors of city hall (Stadhuis) will be open to the public from 17:00 onwards. The city hall's garden (stadhuistuin) will be transformed into a winter garden.
Tree lighting ceremony
As is tradition, Rotterdam city Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb will officially light the Christmas tree at exactly 18:00. The rest of the evening will feature various musical performances and Urban Guides will provide guided tours inside city hall.
Stadhuistuin Rotterdam by Marian V
Programme
17.00 - 17.45 - Dance workshop for kids
18.00 - 18.30 - Musical opening with performances by Zang Express, Ikei, Neda Boin, Derek Otte and Sharon Doorson
18.30 - 18.45 - Ignition of Christmas tree lighting by Mayor Aboutaleb
19.00 - 20.15 - Codarts pop orchestra (Tributes)
19.30 - 22.00 - Silent Disco with DJ Okkie & DJ Minka
22.00 End of event
Throughout the entire evening, all sorts of activities are organized in which young and old can participate for free. Tours in the town hall take place at various times.
Please note, for a number of activities, you will need to register yourself in advance via the website Winter in Rotterdam.
