Mooie Boules opens free jeu de boules venue in Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 4 September 2025 – A new initiative in Rotterdam invites neighbours to meet through play. Mooie Boules has opened its indoor jeu de boules venue free of charge during daytime hours to local residents who are often socially isolated.

_{Image: Official launch of the Mooie Buurt Foundation with a symbolic first throw of the ball. From left to right: Leanne Waanders (Univé Buurtfonds), Fatima Maria Teixeira (volunteer), Rogier van Genugten (Mooie Boules), Michiel van den Berg (KLUP), Alexander Scholtes (Alderman, Municipality of Amsterdam).}

Mooie Boules opens jeu de boules venue for community use

Mooie Boules, known in Rotterdam for its indoor jeu de boules venue (speellokaal) on Vijverhofstraat 45, has launched a new foundation named Mooie Buurt (“beautiful neighbourhood”). The initiative makes the location freely accessible during daytime hours for groups such as older residents, newcomers, young people with limited networks and those living in poverty.

By making its facilities, games and drinks available at no cost, the foundation aims to provide a neutral space where local initiatives can take place. Activities may range from shuffleboard tournaments for youth and newcomers to game afternoons for older residents and their neighbours.

Focus on connection through play

Founder Rogier van Genugten explained that the move responds to growing polarisation in society. According to him, loneliness, poverty and the blaming of refugees remain pressing issues. He stated that Mooie Buurt aims to address these challenges by offering accessible opportunities for enjoyment and social contact, which he described as basic needs.

Pilot programme results

Last year, Mooie Boules tested the idea through a pilot programme. In total, 50 community events were facilitated, leading to around 5,500 new social encounters. Nearly half of the participants reported feeling more connected to their neighbourhood afterwards. The foundation now intends to expand the initiative across nine locations in seven Dutch cities.

Combining social and commercial goals

The initiative combines Mooie Boules’ commercial success with social goals. Income from regular visitors and business clients helps sustain the foundation, while also creating opportunities for volunteers and donations. According to Van Genugten, the approach seeks to make cities more socially connected not through debate, but through games and shared experiences.

Location and directions

The Mooie Boules venue is located at Vijverhofstraat 45 in Rotterdam, in the Oude Noorden district near Rotterdam Noord station. The area is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle and car, with several cafés and creative spaces nearby.