UNTIL 23 AUGUST 2025 | A series of rooftop evenings atop the Boijmans Depot invites locals and visitors alike to experience sunset with music, talks and art. The event, called Before Sunset, unfolds across three August weekends, each with a unique atmosphere.
Before Sunset transforms the Boijmans Depot rooftop
The rooftop of the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam has been temporarily transformed into a venue for a sunset programme known as Before Sunset. Held across three weekends in August, the series combines music, spoken word, performance, and conversation, all set against the city skyline at dusk. The rooftop sessions include drinks and bites curated by restaurant Renilde.
Each weekend features a distinct theme: movement, dialogue, or harmony. The programming is aimed at fostering connection among attendees, as well as with local artists and communities. Tickets are available here (scroll to the bottom).
Three themed weekends of music, talks and performances
Weekend 1 – in-motion x Yardbird
The opening weekend focuses on energy and movement. The programme included a collaboration with Yardbird, bringing dance-centred performances, live music and interactive experiences. The rooftop was reimagined as a dynamic space of rhythm and crowd participation.
Weekend 2 – in-conversation
From 14 to 16 August, the second weekend shifts towards storytelling and discussion. The event features spoken word performances and artist talks, with a spotlight on the Boijmans exhibition The stories we tell. Conversations explore the relevance of contemporary art in society.
Line-up weekend 2
Thursday 14 August
– DJ collective AanTafel! (Lotus, Zena-Rae, Leon)
– Talk: Epifania Queta with Amira Gad (Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen)
Friday 15 August
– Music: ZINEB | Inezgane Records
– Spoken word: Ailen Meester (Dutch) | Damaris (English)
Saturday 16 August
– Sunflowers Radio by Operator
– Music: Naima and Victoria
– Hosts: Andrea and Deniz
Weekend 3 – in-harmony
The final weekend, taking place from 21 to 23 August, centres around community, presence and balance. The programme features Rotterdam-based collectives and artists, with DJ sets, workshops and a live painting performance.
Line-up weekend 3
Thursday 21 August
– DJs: DJ MXM and guests
Friday 22 August
– DJs: Acid Love (studio de zolder) | DJ Klapsalon
– Workshop: Doris Kolpa
Saturday 23 August
– DJs: Sonny Forelli | Ays
– Live painting performance: Daan Koens
Before Sunset Radio streams live from Rotterdam
Those unable to attend in person are able to tune in via Before Sunset Radio, broadcasting live during each evening’s sunset. Hosted by Epifania Queta, the broadcast features music, nightlife tips, cultural highlights and local weather updates. The radio stream is provided by Operator, a Rotterdam-based online station.
Location and directions
The rooftop of Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is located in the Museumpark area, a short walk from Rotterdam Centraal station. The surrounding district is home to cultural institutions such as Het Nieuwe Instituut and Kunsthal, with the rooftop offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
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