HAPPENING July & August | Typical Tropical, Rotterdam’s primary Latin dance school since the 1990s, is presenting a packed summer schedule. Expect free outdoor sessions, club nights, and studio-based classes aimed at both newcomers and seasoned dancers.
Image: Latincafé Dox at Nieuwe Luxor — Photo credit: Richard van 't Hof.
Latin dance returns to Grotekerkplein with free outdoor event
A free Latin dance afternoon will be held on Sunday 27 July at the Stadspodium on Grotekerkplein, a popular public stage near Laurenskerk. The event, titled Typical Tropical in the City, welcomes all from 14:00 to 17:00. It begins with an advanced salsa workshop by Clayton & Helen, followed by music from DJ Carlos.
As Rotterdam’s principal school for salsa, bachata and kizomba, Typical Tropical—based on Schiekade—uses gatherings like this to unite its local and expat community. No registration is needed.
More information
LatinXpress transforms Podium Grounds on 2 August
On Saturday 2 August, LatinXpress returns to Podium Grounds (Pieter de Hoochweg 125, Delfshaven), a venue known for international music programming. Organised by Typical Tropical, the night features two rooms: salsa with DJs Rachella & Mo, and bachata with Brian K & El Pequeno Loco.
The event runs from 22:00 to 03:30, with Latin-inspired food by Huize Wekker and event photography by RH Fotografie. Tickets are €15 in advance, or €17.50–€18.50 at the door. Food and drink can be purchased by cash or pin.
More information | Buy tickets
August dance courses at Schiekade studio
Throughout August, Typical Tropical will run structured salsa and bachata courses at its Schiekade 830 studios—an established dance hub near Rotterdam Centraal. From 4 to 31 August, participants can choose beginner classes or the creative “Summer Fun” sessions.
Each option includes four two-hour lessons, priced at €100 per person or €195 per couple. A supplementary Bachata Musicality course is available for €55 per person. The school emphasises clear teaching, community support, and an inclusive atmosphere. Early registration is recommended.
Course info and registration
One of the classrooms at Typical Tropical Studios
Outdoor dance party at Stadion Neptunus on 15 August
On Friday 15 August, Typical Tropical Outdoor returns to Stadion Neptunus, the city’s baseball stadium next to Roel Langerakpark. Attendees can dance under the sky, sip tropical snacks and enjoy Latin beats in a striking stadium setting.
The programme starts at 17:45 with DJ El Pequeno Loco, followed by a Bachata Cool & Sexy Moves workshop by Brandon & Milou at 18:15. Music continues with DJs Phily and El Pequeno Loco through to 23:00.
Tickets are €8.50 in advance; parking is €3.50. Door entry is €12–€13, and parking €5–€6. Toilets are free; wardrobe is cash-only. Note the ground is unsuitable for suede-soled shoes. Refunds available in case of poor weather.
Event details
Directions to Stadion Neptunus
Stadion Neptunus lies in Spaanse Polder, part of a wider sports area. It’s accessible by car, cycling or bus via Marconiplein. On-site parking for 250 vehicles.
Latin Oase replaces Latin Café Dox on 20 August
With Dox temporarily closed in August, Typical Tropical hosts a one-off Latin Oase event on Wednesday 20 August at Oase, located at Schiehaven 15a in the Lloydkwartier. Set on the waterfront, Oase is a casual cultural venue combining an indoor wooden floor and outdoor terrace.
DJ Rachella (also celebrating her birthday) will spin a mix of salsa, bachata, merengue and kizomba. Entry is free, and the space is easily reachable—just ten minutes by bike from the city centre.
Event details
Directions to Oase
Oase sits near the Euromast and Het Park, accessible via tram 8 or cycling from the centre.
About Typical Tropical
Established in the 1990s, Typical Tropical has become a prominent dance school in Rotterdam, offering a diverse range of dance styles and events. The school provides high-quality and enjoyable dance lessons in Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba, catering to various skill levels. In addition to classes, Typical Tropical organises social practice evenings and events at notable venues such as the Nieuwe Luxor, W70, SS Rotterdam, Grounds, and the Stadspodium.