ROTTERDAM, 3 June 2025 – Residents across Rotterdam are being encouraged to register activities for Burendag, which returns in September for its twentieth edition. The annual event aims to strengthen social ties in neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Twentieth edition of Burendag encourages Rotterdam neighbours to connect
Rotterdam residents can now register to take part in Burendag 2025, the twentieth edition of the annual neighbourhood event designed to bring neighbours closer together. The nationwide initiative, taking place during the weekend of 27 September, is jointly supported by coffee brand Douwe Egberts and the Oranje Fonds.
Over the past two decades, Burendag (literally “Neighbours’ Day”) has grown into a recognised moment for local communities to come together for informal activities such as street games, shared meals or joint clean-up projects.
Data shows increased neighbourhood contact
According to the organisers, the event continues to meet a rising need for accessible social contact within communities. Research indicates that more than 60 percent of neighbours experience increased interaction following Burendag. Nearly half of participants report being more likely to ask their neighbours for help afterwards.
Small gestures such as accepting a parcel for someone else (84.1%), short conversations on the street (83.6%), and simply greeting one another (83.5%) were cited as the most common forms of neighbourly interaction.
Organisers highlight the importance of community
Sandra Jetten of the Oranje Fonds said that social participation often begins close to home. “Feeling included in society starts in your own neighbourhood. It is encouraging to see what neighbours come up with each year to mark Burendag – from sharing coffee and playing games to organising shared meals or tackling practical tasks together.”
Kathelijne Malcontent from Douwe Egberts Netherlands also noted the event’s impact. “We see that Burendag has become a recurring tradition which helps build warm, lasting relationships. That is something we value, and we are committed to involving even more neighbours in the future.”
Activity kits and financial support available
Those in Rotterdam wishing to host a Burendag activity can register via the official website (www.burendag.nl). Whether the plan involves coffee, a street barbecue, board games or a communal clean-up, the emphasis is on helping neighbours get to know one another.
Participants can request a new version of the Burendag activity kit to support their event. In addition, the Oranje Fonds offers the option to apply for a budget of up to €350 to help with costs.
