Christmas markets in Rotterdam are returning for 2026, with Scandinavian traditions, local makers, festive food and winter celebrations spread across the city. From the Norwegian Christmas Market in November to Trompenburg's Green Christmas Market and the festive markets at Noordplein and Binnenrotte, here's where to find Christmas markets in and around Rotterdam this year.

Rotterdam doesn't have one enormous traditional Christmas market that takes over the city centre for the whole of December. Instead, you'll find a collection of smaller events in churches, public squares, botanical gardens and creative venues, each with its own character. Several nearby cities also host substantial Christmas markets, making them worthwhile day trips. We've checked the announced 2026 dates and highlighted which programmes are still awaiting confirmation.

Christmas markets in Rotterdam in 2026

Markthal becomes the Kersthal | 5-27 December 2026

Rotterdam's Markthal is turning into the Kersthal throughout December, adding pop-up Christmas stalls, festive decorations, live performers and visits from Santa Claus to its regular food market. The programme runs from 5 to 27 December, with special entertainment concentrated around the weekends.

Dancing Christmas elves appear on 6 December, followed by the Christmas Choir on 12 and 13 December. Santa and Mrs Claus visit on 12 and 19 December, while the Winter Divas perform on 19 and 20 December. A brass band takes over on 26 and 27 December. There are also caricature artists, festive surprises and a special Markthal Christmas bauble available from the souvenir shop.

The programme is free to visit and takes place alongside the hall's existing food stalls and restaurants. Markthal is located at Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298, near Blaak station. See the complete Kersthal programme.

Waluw Vintage & Design Market Christmas edition | 6 December 2026

Waluw Vintage & Design Market returns on Sunday 6 December with a Christmas edition at the new EDGE Coolsingel building. More than 60 dealers and vintage specialists will bring mid-century furniture, lighting, ceramics, fashion, jewellery, vinyl records and design books to the city centre.

The market also offers a chance to explore the new building opposite Rotterdam City Hall, designed by NUDUS with references to Rotterdam architect J.J.P. Oud. DJ Richelle Soigni provides the music, with coffee from Kuub Coffee and patisserie available throughout the day.

The market runs from 10:30 to 16:30 at Coolsingel 75. Admission costs €7.50 in advance or €8 at the door. Book tickets through Waluw.

Trompenburg Green Christmas Market | 11-13 December 2026

Trompenburg Tuinen & Arboretum is one of Rotterdam's most distinctive places to shop for Christmas gifts. From Friday 11 to Sunday 13 December, its botanical gardens become the setting for the Groene Kerstmarkt, or Green Christmas Market, with more than 60 stalls featuring local and sustainable businesses.

Expect handmade gifts, ceramics, garden accessories, plants, bulbs, winter greenery and seasonal food. The market also includes an entrance area dedicated to freshly cut Christmas greenery and materials for making festive decorations. The gardens themselves provide a setting quite different from the city's urban shopping streets.

The market is open on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00 and on Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Admission is listed at €12.50. Trompenburg is at Honingerdijk 86 in Kralingen. Visit Trompenburg's official events calendar.

Rotterdamse Oogst Christmas markets | 12, 19 and 23 December 2026

Rotterdamse Oogst brings its Christmas editions to Noordplein on Saturday 12 December, Saturday 19 December and Wednesday 23 December. The popular farmers' market normally focuses on locally produced food, independent growers and small businesses, with seasonal products joining the regular assortment as Christmas approaches.

It's a good place to pick up ingredients for Christmas dinner, discover regional products or buy something from a local food entrepreneur. Expect the usual assortment of bread, cheeses, vegetables, flowers and artisan food alongside festive specialities.

The regular Noordplein market is free to enter and generally runs from 10:00 to 17:00. The organisers have confirmed all three Christmas dates, including the additional Wednesday edition, although the full festive programme may still be updated. Check Rotterdamse Oogst for the latest market details.

Swan Market Christmas edition | 20 December 2026

Swan Market returns to Binnenrotte on Sunday 20 December with independent designers, creative entrepreneurs and small brands selling gifts, jewellery, illustrations, clothing, homeware and accessories.

The market is particularly suitable if you prefer unusual presents and locally designed products to conventional high-street shopping. It also offers a convenient central location, close to both Markthal and Blaak station.

Swan Market is open from 11:00 to 17:00 and admission is free. See the confirmed Swan Market programme.

Vintage aan de Maas Wintermarkt | 20 December 2026

Vintage aan de Maas returns to OASE on Sunday 20 December for a winter edition devoted to pre-loved fashion, furniture, art, design, vinyl records and upcycled accessories. Organised by OASE and vintage shop De Parel, the market brings together sellers and visitors interested in giving existing objects a second life.

Besides browsing the stalls, you can stop for food and drinks at OASE, which occupies a former shipyard site overlooking the Maas. The venue regularly combines its markets with music, workshops and other activities.

The market runs from 11:00 to 17:00 at Schiehaven 15A. Admission costs €3 at the door, with payment by card only. Children under 12 enter free. See the programme at OASE.

Winter aan de Maas | 21 December 2026

Maassilo is hosting Winter aan de Maas on Monday 21 December, combining a winter market with a full day of family entertainment and an evening party. The daytime programme runs from 11:00 to 19:00, with performances by Juf Roos, a Frozen-themed show, Santa Claus, games and winter food.

The market forms part of a wider indoor festival, with hot chocolate, poffertjes, waffles and other refreshments. After 19:00, the venue switches towards an après-ski atmosphere, with music and performances including Samuel Welten.

Winter aan de Maas is a ticketed event at Maassilo, Maashaven Zuidzijde 1-2. The current event listing advertises admission from €17. See the event details and ticket information.

Christmas Market Rozenburg | 12 December 2026

Rozenburg is hosting a Christmas market on Saturday 12 December 2026 at Raadhuisplein. The market runs from 10:00 to 17:00, bringing another festive shopping opportunity to this part of Rotterdam.

The event has been included in the municipality's official event announcements, although the organisers have not yet published a detailed programme, stall list or admission information. Check the event information.

Christmas and flea market at De Nieuwe Nachtegaal | 13 December 2026

Huis van de Wijk De Nieuwe Nachtegaal in Oud-Charlois is hosting a Christmas and flea market on Sunday 13 December 2026. The indoor neighbourhood market combines festive decorations and gift items with second-hand clothing, books, toys, puzzles, vintage finds and other curiosities.

With approximately 11 to 25 stalls, the event offers a smaller, community-focused alternative to Rotterdam's larger Christmas markets. Food and drinks will also be available, and the market is accessible by lift.

The market takes place from 09:00 to 15:00 at Mezenhof 27 in Rotterdam-Zuid. Admission is free. See the event announcement.

Scandinavian Christmas markets in Rotterdam

Some of Rotterdam's most distinctive Christmas markets are organised by the city's Scandinavian communities. The Norwegian, Danish, Finnish and Swedish markets bring traditional foods, decorations, gifts and seasonal customs to local churches and cultural centres. They are particularly appealing if you're interested in Christmas traditions from elsewhere in Europe, or simply want something different from an ordinary shopping market.

llustration of Scandinavian Christmas Markets in Rotterdam

Norwegian Christmas Market | 12-15 and 20-22 November 2026

The Norwegian Christmas Market returns to the Noorse Kultuurhuis at Westzeedijk 300 for its 102nd edition. It opens on Thursday 12 November and continues over two November weekends, making it one of the first major Christmas markets of the season in Rotterdam.

Expect Norwegian sweaters, knitwear, handmade decorations, festive gifts, waffles, coffee and Norwegian food specialities. The former Norwegian Seamen's Church remains an important meeting place for the Norwegian community, and its Christmas market has a particularly strong local tradition.

The opening hours are Thursday 12 November from 10:00 to 19:00, and Friday 13 to Sunday 15 November from 10:00 to 17:00. The market returns from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November, again from 10:00 to 17:00. See the official Norwegian Christmas Market information.

Danish Christmas Market | 13-15 and 20-22 November 2026

The Danish Seamen's Church at Coolhaven 1 hosts its traditional Julemarked over two November weekends. The market offers an introduction to Danish Christmas customs, with festive decorations, Danish food, baked goods, gifts and the familiar atmosphere of hygge.

The Danish ambassador to the Netherlands, Ulf Meldgaard, is scheduled to open the market at 12:00 on Friday 13 November.

The confirmed opening hours are:

• Friday 13 November: 12:00 to 20:00
• Saturday 14 November: 11:00 to 20:00
• Sunday 15 November: 11:00 to 17:00
• Friday 20 November: 12:00 to 20:00
• Saturday 21 November: 11:00 to 20:00
• Sunday 22 November: 11:00 to 17:00

Visit the Danish Seamen's Church website for updates.

Finnish Christmas Market | November 2026

The Finnish Seamen's Church, also known as the Finse Huis, is another traditional stop on Rotterdam's Scandinavian Christmas-market circuit. Located at 's-Gravendijkwal 64, it is known for Finnish food, coffee, pastries, seasonal gifts and products from Finnish brands.

Uitagenda Rotterdam includes the Finnish market in its 2026 Scandinavian Christmas Markets programme, covering the periods of 12 to 15 and 20 to 22 November. However, the individual opening hours for the Finnish venue have not yet been independently confirmed. Check the organiser before travelling.

The Finnish Seamen's Church has also traditionally sold Finnish groceries, gifts, Christmas decorations and seasonal delicacies during its festive market. See the Scandinavian markets listing.

Swedish Christmas Market | 27-28 November 2026

The Swedish Christmas Market returns to Rotterdam's Scottish Church on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 November. Organised by the Swedish community, the market offers Swedish food, baked goods, decorations, Christmas presents and an opportunity to discover Swedish festive traditions.

The Swedish-Dutch Association has confirmed both dates and is recruiting volunteers for the event. Exact visitor hours were not available in the announcement we checked. Read the Swedish Christmas Market announcement.

Christmas markets near Rotterdam: day trips for 2026

If you're happy to travel a little farther, several nearby towns and cities offer traditional Christmas markets in historic streets, churches and public squares. Here are the confirmed 2026 options worth considering.

An illustration of Christmas markets day trips near Rotterdam

Royal Christmas Fair, The Hague | 3-23 December 2026

The Royal Christmas Fair returns to Lange Voorhout in The Hague from 3 to 23 December. It's one of the larger traditional Christmas markets within easy reach of Rotterdam, with wooden Christmas houses, illuminated trees, festive food, mulled wine, performances and regular Santa visits.

The market is open daily from 12:00 to 21:00, and admission is free. The location is within walking distance of The Hague Central Station. Visit the Royal Christmas Fair website.

WinterFeest Barendrecht | 12 December 2026

Barendrecht celebrates WinterFeest on Saturday 12 December, bringing a winter market and family activities to the old village centre and the Middenbaan shopping area. The programme includes market stalls, music and activities for children, with the streets between the historic centre and Middenbaan forming the main event area.

The Wintermarkt is scheduled from 11:00 to 18:00. Further entertainment details are still being announced. See WinterFeest Barendrecht.

Kerst in S'DAM, Schiedam | 12 December 2026

Schiedam's historic centre celebrates Christmas on Saturday 12 December with several markets, a Dickens-themed festival, music and other activities. The wider programme runs from 10:00 to 18:00, with the individual markets operating at different times.

On the Hoogstraat, Christmas stalls are scheduled from 11:00 to 17:30. The Dickens Festijn takes place around the Dam and Vlaardingerstraat from 10:00 to 18:00, while another Christmas market at Koemarkt supports Sophia Children's Hospital. The Havenkerk also hosts a makers' market from 12:00 to 17:00.

With its old warehouses, canals and historic streets, Schiedam provides an atmospheric setting for an afternoon of shopping and Christmas entertainment. See the official Kerst in S'DAM programme.

Winterfair Zwijndrecht | 10-12 December 2026

Winterfair Zwijndrecht takes place around Raadhuisplein from Thursday 10 to Saturday 12 December. The main Christmas market is scheduled for Saturday 12 December from 10:00 to 18:00.

The organisers are expanding the market, with space for approximately 80 stalls selling gifts, decorations, food and other products. Food trucks, performances and family activities will be spread around the square and heated event hall. Visit the Winterfair Zwijndrecht website.

Dordtse Decemberdagen, Dordrecht | 10 December 2026 - 3 January 2027

Dordrecht's festive programme returns with light installations, winter entertainment and the Decembermarkt in the historic centre. The market itself runs from Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 December, with wooden chalets selling gifts and seasonal products around Grotekerksbuurt and Groenmarkt.

Opening hours are Thursday 10 December from 12:00 to 20:00, Friday 11 December from 12:00 to 22:00, Saturday 12 December from 10:00 to 22:00 and Sunday 13 December from 12:00 to 20:00.

The wider Dordtse Decemberdagen programme continues until 3 January 2027, with the illuminated Dwaalspoor walking route and other winter activities. See the Decembermarkt programme.

Gouda bij Kaarslicht and Winterfair Gouda | 11-12 December 2026

Gouda combines its traditional candlelight celebration with a Christmas market inside the Goudse Sint-Jan. Gouda bij Kaarslicht takes place on Friday 11 December, with the Christmas tree and main ceremony moved from their usual position because the historic town hall is undergoing renovation.

The Winterfair at Sint-Jan takes place on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 December, featuring stalls, festive food, musical performances and products sold in support of charitable causes. Entry to the church is free during the event.

This makes Gouda particularly attractive if you want to combine a Christmas market with a historic city-centre celebration. See Winterfair Gouda and Gouda bij Kaarslicht.

Nostalgic Christmas Market, Leiden | 11-13 and 17-20 December 2026

Leiden's Nostalgische Kerstmarkt returns for seven days in December, taking over Hooglandse Kerkgracht, Hooglandse Kerkplein, Nieuwstraat and the area around the Burcht. Wooden chalets, food stalls and winter decorations turn the historic centre into a Christmas village.

The market is open from 12:00 to 21:00 on 11 and 12 December, from 13:00 to 21:00 on 13 December, from 12:00 to 21:00 on 17 to 19 December and from 13:00 to 18:00 on 20 December. Leiden's wider Winter Wonder Weeks programme also includes a floating ice rink and other seasonal attractions.

See the Leiden Christmas Market website.

Delft Verlicht and Christmas market | 8 December 2026 - 3 January 2027

Delft Verlicht begins with Lichtjesavond on Tuesday 8 December and continues through 3 January 2027. The historic centre fills with illuminated streets, music, theatre and winter activities. The opening event is the 29th Lichtjesavond, including the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Markt.

Separately, a Christmas market organised by Onafhankelijk Delft is permitted to take place on the Markt on Saturday 19 December. The municipality has confirmed the event permit, although the full visitor programme and opening hours have not been independently verified.

Explore Delft Verlicht.

Kerst in Brielle | 18-20 December 2026

The fortified town of Brielle hosts three days of Christmas activities from Friday 18 to Sunday 20 December. Its Christmas market takes place inside the historic Sint-Catharijnekerk, with stalls selling handmade products, gifts, decorations, food and accessories.

The market opens Friday from 12:00 to 18:00, Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00 and Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00. The wider town centre also features choirs, live entertainment and festive activities.

See the Kerst in Brielle programme.

Capelse Kerstmarkt | 18-19 December 2026 (planned)

Capelle aan den IJssel is preparing a fifth edition of the Capelse Kerstmarkt on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 December 2026. The proposed event at Stadsplein brings together Christmas shopping, multicultural food, seasonal decorations and activities for children.

Plans include stalls selling handmade jewellery, Christmas gifts, food and treats, alongside a children's ice rink and workshops where visitors can decorate their own Christmas baubles. The organisers also intend to offer free pancakes, oliebollen and hot chocolate to children under 12.

The proposed opening hours are Friday from 16:00 to 20:00 and Saturday from 11:00 to 18:00. The event is currently listed as a community funding initiative, so the final programme and arrangements remain subject to confirmation. See the organiser's plans for Capelse Kerstmarkt 2026.

Dickens Christmas Fair, Vlaardingen | 19 December 2026

The Van Hogendorpkwartier shopping centre in Vlaardingen celebrates Christmas with a Dickens-themed fair on Saturday 19 December. Market stalls sell gifts, seasonal decorations and other products, while costumed characters create a Victorian Christmas atmosphere.

The market runs from 11:00 to 16:00, with Dickens characters appearing from 12:00. Visitors can also take themed photographs during the event. See the organiser's announcement.

Christmas markets still awaiting 2026 confirmation

Several Rotterdam markets that appeared in previous Christmas seasons have not yet published complete 2026 visitor programmes. These include Deliplein Winterplein in Katendrecht, Christmas at Kula, The Maker Market's Rotterdam Christmas edition, Waluw's XXL Christmas market, VELD_KERST in Schiebroek, the German Christmas Market at the Deutsche Evangelische Gemeinde, and smaller winter markets in Rhoon, Poortugaal and Charlois.

Deliplein Winterplein has traditionally offered free community activities, music, workshops and seasonal gatherings, while the German church market is known for its homemade German food, decorations and Advent traditions. Both remain worth watching, but their old dates should not be treated as a 2026 announcement.

Another event to watch is De Rotterdamse Kerstmarkt, a proposed Christmas market around Rotterdam's Oude Haven. The organisers postponed the original 2025 edition to December 2026. However, exact dates and the final programme have not yet been confirmed, so don't make travel arrangements based on the old December 2025 dates.

Planning your Christmas market visits

If you want to stay in Rotterdam, November is particularly good for visiting the Scandinavian Christmas markets. In December, Trompenburg offers a more traditional market experience among the botanical gardens, while Rotterdamse Oogst and Swan Market are good options for buying from local farmers, makers and independent businesses.

If you prefer larger markets with illuminated wooden chalets, The Hague and Leiden are strong day-trip choices. Schiedam, Dordrecht, Gouda and Brielle offer a different appeal, combining Christmas shopping with historic streets, churches and seasonal entertainment.

Market dates, ticket prices and individual programmes can still change before December. Check the linked organiser websites before setting off, especially where an event has confirmed dates but has not yet published its full programme.

You do not need to wait for snow in the Netherlands to go skiing or snowboarding around Rotterdam. Real-snow indoor slopes operate year-round in Zoetermeer and The Hague, Rotterdam has its own roller-slope ski school, and the city's ice-skating season starts during the October school holiday.

Winter sports around Rotterdam at a glance

If you want to ski or snowboard on real snow, SnowWorld Zoetermeer and De Uithof in The Hague are the main options near Rotterdam. Both operate indoor snow slopes throughout the year.

If your priority is technique or preparing for a ski holiday without travelling to a snow dome, Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam and Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn use roller and dry-slope facilities for lessons and training.

For ice skating inside Rotterdam, the 2026-27 season brings confirmed rinks at Schaatsbaan Rotterdam and Plaswijckpark.

SnowWorld Zoetermeer

SnowWorld Zoetermeer is the largest real-snow option close to Rotterdam. The indoor complex has four slopes and ten lifts, with snow conditions maintained at approximately -5°C throughout the year.

Its longest run is a 300-metre red slope with a gradient of more than 20 degrees. SnowWorld describes it as the steepest indoor ski slope in Europe. Beginners have two 140-metre blue slopes, while younger children can use the 30-metre Kinderland slope.

You can ski or snowboard independently or book lessons and courses. For free skiing and snowboarding, you need to reserve a time slot online. Equipment can also be hired at the venue.

Address: Buytenparklaan 30, 2717 AX Zoetermeer.

Official information: SnowWorld Zoetermeer

De Uithof in The Hague

De Uithof combines skiing, snowboarding and ice skating in one large indoor sports centre. Its snow slope is 211 metres long, uses real snow throughout the year and is kept at approximately -8°C.

Four lifts serve the snow area: two drag lifts and two conveyor lifts aimed particularly at children and beginners. Ski and snowboard lessons are available at different levels, while experienced visitors can book regular slope access.

Current slope tickets start at €14.50 for one hour excluding equipment. Advance reservations are required.

Address: Jaap Edenweg 10, 2544 NL Den Haag.

Official information: De Uithof snow track

Ski and snowboard training in Rotterdam

Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam

Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam lets you practise skiing or snowboarding without leaving the city. This is a roller-slope training centre rather than a snow dome, so the focus is on technique, balance and conditioning.

The school has operated since 1986 and offers training from beginner through advanced level. Its current 2026-27 season runs from 2 September 2026 through 29 April 2027.

Address: Folkert Elsingastraat 11, 3067 NW Rotterdam.

Official information: Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam

Alpine Sports in Den Hoorn

Alpine Sports is another option if you want to work on your skiing or snowboarding technique before heading to the mountains. The indoor centre uses three roller slopes and a separate training slope, while younger children can learn on a brush-covered slope.

Lessons are available for beginners and advanced participants, with small-group training as well as private sessions. Equipment is included with lessons.

Address: Hooipolderweg 4, 2635 CZ Den Hoorn.

Official information: Alpine Sports

Ice skating in Rotterdam in winter 2026-27

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam remains the city's main dedicated seasonal ice rink. Its Funbaan opens early during the autumn school holiday from 17 to 25 October 2026, while the full season runs from 21 November 2026 to 27 February 2027.

The main attraction is the covered 400-metre track with its colourful illuminated tunnel. The venue also offers recreational skating, lessons, skate hire and curling.

Address: Toepad 95, 3063 NJ Rotterdam.

Official information: Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Plaswijckpark

Plaswijckpark opens its covered real-ice rink on 14 November 2026. The rink is particularly useful if you want to combine skating with a family visit to the park.

Skates can be borrowed free of charge, including double-bladed skates for younger children. You can also bring your own figure or ice-hockey skates. Gloves are compulsory.

The rink also forms part of Winterwijck, which runs from 1 December 2026 to 28 February 2027 with additional winter games and activities.

Address: Ringdijk 20, 3053 KS Rotterdam.

Official information: Plaswijckpark skating rink

What about IJsvrij Festival?

IJsvrij Festival previously brought a temporary ice rink, winter terrace and activities to central Rotterdam. However, no 2026-27 edition has currently been announced.

The IJsvrij website remains online with information from previous editions, but it does not currently provide dates for this winter. We therefore recommend using Schaatsbaan Rotterdam or Plaswijckpark if you are planning an ice-skating trip.

Which winter sports venue should you choose?

Choose SnowWorld Zoetermeer if you want the largest nearby indoor skiing and snowboarding experience on real snow. De Uithof is useful if you want skiing and ice skating at the same sports complex.

If you mainly want lessons or technique training, Indoor Ski & Snowboard Rotterdam is the closest option inside the city, while Alpine Sports offers another training centre just outside Rotterdam.

For skating, Schaatsbaan Rotterdam offers the most complete dedicated ice-skating experience, while Plaswijckpark works well as part of a family day out.

For more detailed rink dates, ticket prices and skate-hire information, read our guide to ice skating in Rotterdam in 2026-27.

HAPPENING 17 TO 24 OCT '26 | The Euromast is adding extra activities for children during Rotterdam's autumn school holiday, including mini-boats, balloon art and face painting. Families can combine the programme with a scavenger hunt, The Rise of Rotterdam and a trip up the tower for views across the city.

The autumn break starts with a little boating at the foot of the Euromast. From Saturday 17 to Tuesday 20 October, children can take control of their own mini-boat before heading inside to explore one of Rotterdam's best-known landmarks.

Saturday 17 October brings another addition. Balloon artist Bloony will be at the Euromast from 11:00 to 15:00 making balloon figures for younger visitors.

Face painting follows on Wednesday 21 and Saturday 24 October, also from 11:00 to 15:00, when children can choose to become anything from a lion or tiger to a superhero.

Discover Rotterdam from above

The children's programme can be combined with the Euromast's regular visitor experiences.

Families can follow a scavenger hunt through the tower before entering The Rise of Rotterdam, the interactive experience that uses light, sound and moving images to tell the story of Rotterdam and its reconstruction.

From there, the observation platforms offer views across the city, river and port. Children can try to spot Rotterdam landmarks, ships and bridges from above before continuing higher in the Euroscoop.

The rotating lift rises to 185 metres and provides a 360-degree view across Rotterdam. Its glass floor can become transparent during the ride, although it can also be made opaque again if looking straight down suddenly feels like a terrible idea.

Access to the Euroscoop carries an additional charge on top of the standard Euromast admission ticket and is subject to weather and technical conditions.

Take a break in the brasserie

A visit can also include a stop at Brasserie Euromast, where families can have something to eat or drink while looking across the Rotterdam skyline.

There is a separate children's menu, while adults can choose from the brasserie's current autumn and winter menu.

Once everyone is back at ground level, Het Park is directly beside the Euromast and gives children considerably more room to burn off whatever energy remains.

Make a day of it in Het Park

After the visit, families can head straight into Het Park, the green heart of Rotterdam right next to the Euromast. It’s the perfect place for a final walk or a play session among the trees — with the city’s skyline as a backdrop.

Autumn holiday programme

The extra children's activities take place between 17 and 24 October:

17 to 20 October: Mini-boats outside the Euromast
17 October: Balloon artist Bloony, 11:00 to 15:00
21 October: Face painting, 11:00 to 15:00
24 October: Face painting, 11:00 to 15:00

The Euromast is open daily from 09:30 to 22:00.

Children receive a reduced admission rate, while children aged three and under can enter free of charge. Ticket prices vary depending on the date and type of visit, so booking online before travelling is recommended.

More information and tickets are available via the Euromast autumn holiday page.

Tip: Learn and explore with The Rise of Rotterdam

One of the highlights is The Rise of Rotterdam — a dynamic, educational experience that tells the story of how the city rebuilt itself after the Second World War. With light, sound and moving imagery, children discover Rotterdam’s remarkable transformation in an interactive way that makes learning fun.

Family adventures at the Euromast this autumn break

How to get there

The Euromast is located beside Het Park at Parkhaven 20. Tram 8 stops at Euromast, while Coolhaven metro station is within walking distance. The tower can also be reached by water taxi.

Paid parking is available around Parkhaven. The Euromast also recommends Q-Park Schiecentrale, around a ten-minute walk away.

ROTTERDAM, 14 October 2026 - Ice-skating season is returning to Rotterdam, with the first rink opening during the October school holiday. Schaatsbaan Rotterdam opens its Funbaan from 17 October before the full 400-metre rink returns on 21 November, while Plaswijckpark opens its covered real-ice rink on 14 November.

Ice skating in Rotterdam 2026-27 at a glance

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam is the best choice if you want proper laps, speed skating or a large dedicated rink. Its Funbaan opens early from 17 to 25 October, while the complete rink operates from 21 November 2026 until 27 February 2027.

Plaswijckpark works well as part of a family day out. Its covered real-ice rink opens on 14 November, with the broader Winterwijck programme running from 1 December 2026 through 28 February 2027.

Winters Blijdorp and Winterfeest op Zuid both included ice skating last winter, but no 2026-27 rink dates have yet been officially confirmed. We will add them if new editions are announced.

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam remains the city's main dedicated winter rink. You can skate proper laps on its covered 400-metre track beneath the colourful rainbow tunnel, while beginners and families can use the 800 m² Funbaan.

The Funbaan gets an early start during the autumn school holiday. It is open daily from 17 to 25 October 2026, from 10:00 to 17:00. The 400-metre track remains closed during this period.

The complete winter season begins on Saturday 21 November 2026 and continues through Saturday 27 February 2027. During the main season, the rink normally opens from 08:00, with closing times varying between 22:00 and 23:00 depending on the day. Special speed-skating hours and resurfacing breaks apply, so check the live timetable before visiting.

Tickets and skate hire

Regular-season single admission starts at €9.50 with dynamic pricing. The autumn-holiday Funbaan uses separate lower-priced tickets. A spectator or accompanying ticket costs €5. Online reservation is required and time slots apply.

Hockey-skate rental starts at €7.50, speed-skate rental at €9 and helmets at €3. Beginner skating aids cost from €2.50 during paid periods. Gloves are compulsory on the ice.

Rotterdampas holders currently have a one-time €1 entry offer. Skate rental is separate.

Rainbow lighting on the 400-metre track is scheduled from 16:00 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Ice skating at Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

How to get there

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam is at Sportcomplex Toepad in Kralingen. Parking is limited and the rink recommends public transport or cycling when possible.

The rink is expected to remain at Toepad through winter 2027-28. Schaatsbaan Rotterdam and Rotterdam The Hague Airport are working towards a possible move to part of airport car park P3 from autumn 2028, subject to further studies and permits.

Official information and tickets: schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

Plaswijckpark's real-ice rink

Plaswijckpark in Hillegersberg-Schiebroek returns with a covered rink using real ice. It is a smaller and more relaxed option than Schaatsbaan Rotterdam, particularly if you are visiting with younger children and want to combine skating with the rest of the park.

The rink opens on 14 November 2026. Plaswijckpark's wider Winterwijck programme runs from 1 December 2026 to 28 February 2027, with winter games and seasonal activities alongside the skating.

Skates can be borrowed free of charge, including double-bladed skates for young children. You may bring your own figure or ice-hockey skates, but speed skates are not allowed. Gloves are compulsory.

Standard 2026 admission to Plaswijckpark is currently €17.75 from age two, with skating included in the wider park visit. A winter subscription costs €36.50 online or €37.50 at the ticket desk and is valid from 1 November 2026 to 20 March 2027.

Ice skating at Plaswijckpark in Rotterdam

How to get there

Plaswijckpark is on Ringdijk in Rotterdam-Noord. Check the park's current opening calendar before visiting, as winter opening hours differ from the summer schedule.

Official information: plaswijckpark.nl

What about skating at Blijdorp?

Diergaarde Blijdorp included ice skating in its 2025-26 Winters Blijdorp programme, but a new skating programme for winter 2026-27 has not yet been officially announced.

As of 14 October 2026, the zoo has not published new rink dates or ticket arrangements. We will update this guide if skating returns to Blijdorp this winter.

Will Winterfeest op Zuid return?

Winterfeest op Zuid brought free skating to Gooilandsingel in December 2025, together with music, games and other activities. As of 14 October 2026, no new skating edition has been announced.

The old 17 December date therefore belongs to the 2025 edition and should not be treated as an annual date.

Nearby ice rinks worth the trip

IJsbaan Dordrecht, city-centre pop-up

Dordrecht's covered seasonal rink returns to the Spuiboulevard in December 2026 after attracting more than 20,000 visitors during its first edition.

The current programme lists its first public skating session on Friday 4 December. Admission costs €6 for two hours, while skate hire costs €4. Opening hours vary during the month, particularly around the holidays, so check the official IJsbaan Dordrecht website before travelling.

Schaatsbaan Dordrecht, Sportboulevard

If you want a permanent indoor rink rather than a Christmas pop-up, Sportboulevard Dordrecht has a 275-metre speed-skating track, a 30 x 60 metre ice-hockey rink and a smaller Funbaan.

Current recreational admission is €10.25. Entering without skating costs €2.50. Public sessions vary, so check the current Sportboulevard timetable before making the journey from Rotterdam.

Address: Fanny Blankers-Koenweg 10, 3318 AX Dordrecht.

De Uithof, The Hague

De Uithof has a full 400-metre track, Funrink and additional ice facilities. Its 400-metre rink and Funrink remain open through 21 March 2027.

For 2026-27, an online single ticket ranges from €10.50 during quieter periods to €12.50 during peak holiday periods. Standard skate hire starts at €8.50. Check De Uithof's current ticket information before visiting.

Address: Jaap Edenweg 10, 2544 NL Den Haag.

IJshal De Vliet, Leiden

IJshal De Vliet combines a 250-metre track with other ice surfaces and regular recreational sessions.

Current admission is €9 for adults aged 12 to 64 and €7.50 for children, students and visitors aged 65 and over. Sunday Family on Ice sessions also cost €7.50. Skate rental starts at €7.

A helmet is compulsory during recreational skating. You can bring your own or hire one at the rink. Check current IJshal De Vliet prices before travelling.

Address: Marie Diebenplaats 104, 2324 NG Leiden.

Which rink should you choose?

Choose Schaatsbaan Rotterdam if you want the biggest local skating experience, a proper 400-metre track or speed skating. Choose Plaswijckpark if the rink is one part of a family day out. The permanent rinks in Dordrecht, The Hague and Leiden are useful alternatives when you want more options or different opening dates.

Seasonal ice rinks can change their timetables quickly, particularly around the Christmas holidays. Always check the venue's own timetable and ticket page shortly before travelling.