Agency at Night: Rotterdam’s creative industry opens up

Agency at Night: Rotterdam’s creative industry opens up

HAPPENING 16 MAY 2025 | Rotterdam’s creative industry will once again open its doors to the public as 'Agency at Night' returns for its second edition on 16 May. More than 50 agencies will participate, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s creative and digital sector.

Photo credit: Judith Bovelander, Somention

Second edition of ‘Agency at Night’ in Rotterdam

Following the success of its first edition in 2024, 'Agency at Night' will return to Rotterdam on Friday, 16 May. The event provides an opportunity to explore the city’s creative sector, with 52 digital and creative agencies offering access to their workspaces. The initiative is aimed at prospective clients, industry professionals, students, and anyone interested in the field.

The event includes talks by agency founders, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities. According to organiser Jeroen Wolfs, the goal is to offer a platform that provides insight into the industry. “With Agency at Night, we want to show what happens behind the closed doors of Rotterdam’s agencies. It’s an opportunity to gain new perspectives and see what the future of the creative industry looks like.”

 

Agency at Night: Rotterdam’s creative industry opens up. Photo credit: Judith Bovelander, SomentionAgency at Night: Rotterdam’s creative industry opens up. Photo credit: Judith Bovelander, Somention

 

Insight into the creative sector

On the night of the event, Rotterdam will transform into a hub of creativity and innovation. Participating agencies will offer a range of activities, including keynote talks, hands-on workshops, and interactive sessions tailored to different interests.

“Each agency will organise its own programme, allowing visitors to plan their evening based on their preferences,” Wolfs explains. “It will be a dynamic night full of learning, networking, and discovering new trends in the industry.”

 

Growing participation in 2025

The first edition of 'Agency at Night' in 2024 saw 46 agencies participate, attracting over 4,500 visitors. Organisers noted the enthusiasm and engagement from both agencies and attendees.

“We were surprised by the level of interest last year,” Wolfs says. “Agencies went all out to inspire visitors, and this year, we are aiming to involve even more agencies.” Established names such as DEPT, Fabrique, Somention, and ARA will once again take part, joined by newcomers like iO, Zuiver Groep, and Dapper.

 

About Agency at Night

'Agency at Night' is an initiative by creative agency Okaia and event organiser Compagnon Events. The event focuses on communication, offering an engaging programme featuring talks, workshops, and more.

Ticket sales will begin on Wednesday, 12 February, when the list of participating agencies will also be announced. The full programme will be revealed in early April. More information can be found at agencyatnight.nl.

TwitchCon Europe in Rotterdam - event information

TwitchCon Europe in Rotterdam - event information

HAPPENING 31 MAY–1 JUN | Rotterdam Ahoy is set to host TwitchCon Europe in 2025, marking a significant event for the city's vibrant gaming and digital economy.

TwitchCon Europe's new home in Rotterdam

The return to Rotterdam Ahoy as the venue for TwitchCon Europe on 31 May and 1 June 2025 has been announced by Twitch, the leading interactive livestreaming service. This marks the second time the event will be held in Rotterdam, with plans to return to the city in 2026. TwitchCon is known for its celebration of live-streaming culture, offering a platform for thousands of streamers, viewers, and brands to connect over a weekend dedicated to creativity, competitive gaming, and entertainment.

Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch, says: “Over the past ten years, TwitchCon has helped develop and connect a global online community. TwitchCon gives this community the chance to meet in person and create unforgettable memories. Our livestreaming service plays an important role in fostering a sense of connection. Our streamers and their fans have formed lifelong friendships, and we are always delighted to bring them together at our event.”

What to expect at TwitchCon Europe 2025 in Rotterdam


Attending live product updates from Twitch

At the Glitch Stage and the Kappa Cabana Stage, attendees will be treated to live product updates from Twitch, complete with entertainment and live music. This offers a rare opportunity to get firsthand insights into what's new and next for Twitch, all while enjoying an immersive and engaging atmosphere.

Meeting favourite streamers

One of the highlights of TwitchCon Europe in Rotterdam is the chance to meet your favourite streamers in person. The event serves as a celebration of the world of live-streaming, bringing together many online communities under one roof. It's a unique opportunity to interact with streamers and fellow fans alike.

Exploring the TwitchCon Loot Cave

The TwitchCon Loot Cave promises an exciting shopping experience, featuring exclusive merchandise. Attendees can look forward to acquiring specially designed clothing among other unique items. It's the perfect spot to grab some swag that showcases your love for Twitch and its vibrant community.

Discovering creations at the Artist Alley

The Artist Alley is set to showcase beautiful creations from independent game designers. Ranging from art to jewellery, this section of TwitchCon Europe offers a glimpse into the creative talents within the Twitch community. It's an excellent chance to appreciate the artistic side of the gaming and streaming world.

Watching streamers and pro players compete

The Twitch Rivals Stage will host streamers and professional players as they compete in leading esports titles. This is where the competitive spirit of TwitchCon comes to life, with attendees getting to watch as their favourite personalities battle it out in high-stakes matches.

Participating in workshops and panels

TwitchCon Europe will also feature workshops and panels designed to help visitors elevate their channels and build their own communities. These sessions provide valuable insights and advice on growing as a streamer or content creator, making them an essential part of the TwitchCon experience for anyone looking to make their mark on the platform.



Tickets to TwitchCon Europe 2025 in Rotterdam

Ticket owners for TwitchCon Europe 2025 in Rotterdam will be treated to various gifts, including a unique Chat badge, enriching their event experience. Twitch Partners and Affiliates are granted special access to the exclusive Partner Party, Partner Lounge, and special gifts, highlighting the appreciation for the creators within the Twitch community.

Tickets are currently on sale, available through the event's official website

Rotterdam's embrace of the digital economy

Rotterdam's selection as the host city for TwitchCon underscores its attractiveness for international events and its commitment to the gaming and digital economy. The city boasts leading international game studios, innovative startups, and a wealth of talent, making it a logical choice for such a significant event. The municipality of Rotterdam, along with local entrepreneurs and educational institutions, aims to contribute to an open, fair, and safe digital economy that fosters innovation and sustainable economic growth.

Impact on the local economy and community

The announcement of TwitchCon Europe being held in Rotterdam has been met with enthusiasm from local officials and business leaders. The event is expected to stimulate local business and hotel expenditures, contributing to job creation and highlighting Rotterdam's strengths as a hardworking, creative, and innovative hub. The presence of TwitchCon is also anticipated to have a direct effect on the local economy, with thousands of international visitors expected to explore the city's dining and meeting spots, particularly in the Hart van Zuid area around Ahoy.

 

Directions to Rotterdam Ahoy

Rotterdam Ahoy, located in the heart of the city's vibrant Zuid district, is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, and car. The venue is known for its excellent facilities and plays host to a variety of international events throughout the year. For visitors arriving by public transport, several tram and bus lines provide direct access to Ahoy from different parts of the city. Cyclists will find ample bike parking near the venue. For those driving, Rotterdam Ahoy offers extensive parking facilities. The area around Ahoy is well-equipped with restaurants, shops, and leisure activities, making it a perfect destination for those attending events or exploring the city.

 

TREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, dates

TREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, dates

HAPPENING 8–11 MAY 2025 | TREK, the Netherlands' largest travelling food festival, makes a stop in Rotterdam's Vroesenpark. TREK is all about an intimate atmosphere with good food, plenty of drinks and live entertainment from local artists, comedians and musicians.
 
From 8 to 11 May 2025, the Netherlands' biggest travelling food festival kicks off its new season in Rotterdam. Foodies from far and wide can enjoy the delicious street food prepared with love in beautiful food trucks in the Vroesenpark. Festival TREK also guarantees a surprising range of entertainment with acts and performances by theatre artists, Dutch comedians and musical talent from the region. Festival TREK is a free festival and suitable for young and old.  
 
TREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, datesTREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, dates
 

Much more than a food festival 

Only the best and most beautiful food trucks make it through Festival TREK’s strict selection process. Factors such as great value for money and a diverse range of options are carefully considered. Enjoy the tastiest burgers, hearty bowls, freshly baked pizzas, creative vegan dishes, or perfectly grilled meats—there is something for everyone!

Visitors are also drawn to the festival for its laid-back atmosphere and surprising entertainment, featuring performances and acts from regional talent. The festival grounds include a town hall, a church, a theatre tent, and various funfair classics. In the evening, guests can let loose at the Silent Disco or dance to the greatest hits of all time, played by a DJ who keeps everyone moving.

 
TREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, datesTREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, dates
 

Festival TREK unveils new ‘BurgeRmeester’ and exciting additions for the season

Festival TREK is kicking off a new season with fresh entertainment, culinary delights, and the introduction of its very own BurgeRmeester—a playful twist on the Dutch word for mayor, burgemeester. The newly appointed festival figurehead will be officially sworn in, making this year’s edition even more special.

Alongside its renowned food trucks and vibrant atmosphere, Festival TREK is expanding its offerings with new flavours and experiences. Visitors can enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at the Sangria & Bubbles Bar, where various sangrias, sparkling wines, oysters, and Spanish tapas will be served. For those looking to indulge further, the festival’s city parks will feature a grand wine terrace, a Biergarten, and a cocktail bar, offering something for every taste.

Entertainment remains a major highlight, with emerging musical and theatrical talent set to take the stage. The festival’s theatre caravan will provide lively performances, while visitors can also send a special message to a fellow festival-goer via the festival postman in the event’s charming village setting.

For younger attendees, a children’s theatre, nostalgic fairground rides, and traditional Dutch games promise plenty of fun. With new attractions, an expanded drink selection, and a playful nod to local governance with the introduction of the BurgeRmeester, Festival TREK is shaping up to be a must-visit event this season.

 
TREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, datesTREK travelling food festival visits Rotterdam - info, dates
 

Festival TREK visits 9 of the Netherlands' most beautiful city parks

The largest food festival in the Netherlands will be travelling across the country, landing in nine city parks in Rotterdam, Tilburg, Nijmegen, Maastricht, Utrecht, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Amsterdam and The Hague.
 

Festival location: Vroesenpark

 
Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival - location, date, lineup

Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival - location, date, lineup

HAPPENING 25–26 July 2025 | Every summer the streets of Rotterdam are privy to a spectacle which has no equal anywhere else in The Netherlands: the Rotterdam Summer carnival and more specifically, the street parade.

What is Rotterdam Summer Carnival?

In a nutshell, it's the largest Caribbean street party in the Netherlands. The Summer Carnival in Rotterdam is also part of the intangible cultural heritage of the Netherlands. It is of great importance to the cultural identity and social cohesion of the country. The Rotterdam summer carnival street parade first took place in 1984. 

Sure, there's carnival in other parts of the country. Such as the carnival celebrations in Brabant and Limburg. However, the Rotterdam summer carnival has a Caribbean flair. It includes many elements from Dutch-Caribbean carnival traditions and could best be compared to the Nottingham Carnival in Britain.

When is the next Rotterdam Summer Carnival?

Rotterdam Unlimited Carnival 2025 will take place on 25 and 26 July in different locations across the city. The festival is mostly free, with after-parties being the only events you need tickets for at the summer carnival.

Changes in 2024: No concert after the street parade

Rotterdam Unlimited 2024 featured only a street parade, without the usual stage programmes on Friday and Saturday, due to new requirements from the Rotterdam municipality.

The municipality introduced new requirements mandating that stage programmes take place in a secured area with controlled access. Additionally, the street parade was no longer allowed to end at the event location. The need for a secure area added complexity and higher costs, while the restriction on the parade's endpoint disrupted the traditional flow and celebration of the event.

These stipulations complicated the festival’s logistics and planning, making it impossible to organise the stage programmes within the available timeframe. Instead, an extra festive parade took place on 27th July, marking its 40th anniversary and recent UNESCO recognition. Efforts are now focused on planning a full festival for 2025.

Main Rotterdam Summer Carnival dates for 2025

Disclaimer: At present, all we have to go on is that the official dates will be 25 and 26 July 2025. If the Friday events remain on Friday and the Saturday events remain on Saturday, this means the 2025 schedule will likely look as follows:

 

Friday 25 July: Battle of the drums

The “Battle of Drums: Anniversary” event will likely take place on 25th July 2025, from 17:00 to 22:00 at Rotterdam Ahoy. This event marks the return of the popular drum competition, featuring spectacular showcases by previous winners like Ritmo Entertainment, TFM Brassband, and The Rhythm Allstar Brassband. In addition to the performances, there will be musical interludes and an outdoor mini-market with terraces. The event is free, but prior registration is required to receive a QR code for entry.

 

Saturday 26 July: Rotterdam summer carnival street parade

The Summer Carnival Street Parade 2025 is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, 26th July, from 12:00 to 19:00 in Rotterdam's city centre. The starting location is Rotterdam Blaak. This year, the parade will be larger and more diverse than ever, with 43 participating groups.

This vibrant event features a colourful procession of dancers, music floats, drum bands, and spectacular costumes. Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the parade covers a 5 km route throughout the city.

Queen Larisa and King Gillian will lead the parade in the first float. They will be accompanied by De Havenloods Zomercarnaval princess Inaya. The group Dushi Aventura, winners of Zomercarnaval Curaçao, will follow.

 

Saturday 26 July: Mercado

The Mercado at Rotterdam Unlimited Zomercarnaval 2025 will probably take place on Saturday, 26th July, from 12:00 to 21:00 across multiple locations in Rotterdam's city centre: Eendrachtsplein, Schouwburgplein, Coolsingel near Koopgoot, and Coolsingel near the city hall. This market features a diverse array of international cuisines, street food, and cultural merchandise. Spaces are 20 m² and include a booth and a power outlet. The market will only proceed if all four locations have sufficient interest by 15th May. 

 

Saturday 26 July: Rueda de Casino

The “Rueda de Casino” event at Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival 2025 is probably set for Saturday, 26th July, from 12:00 to 16:00 at Stationsplein. This Cuban group dance involves a minimum of three couples dancing salsa or son montuno in a circle, with participants exchanging partners on command. It's a spontaneous dance with specific routines or figures led by a group leader. The event is free, open to everyone. 

 

Rotterdam summer carnival street parade route

In general, this is the route. Every so often it changes a little due to construction along the route, so be sure to double-check before making your final plans. The diagram below is from 2023.

 

route of the rotterdam summer carnival street parade in 2023route of the rotterdam summer carnival street parade in 2023

 

Still not sure if you should attend? Have a look at the Rotterdam Unlimited 2024 aftermovie:

 

And here's the Battle of the Drums aftermovie from 2024:

Liberation party at Museum Rotterdam during Museumnacht
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Liberation party at Museum Rotterdam during Museumnacht

HAPPENING 1 March 2025 – Museum Rotterdam marks 80 years of freedom during Museumnacht010. Visitors can dance to music from past and present while reflecting on the impact of war and liberation.

 

Image credit: Rotterdam City Archives (Stadsarchief Rotterdam), people dancing at the 1945 liberation celebration.

 

Liberation party at Museum Rotterdam during Museumnacht

On Saturday, 1 March 2025, Museum Rotterdam ’40-’45 NU will open its doors for a special Museumnacht010 event, dedicated to 80 years of freedom. The evening will immerse visitors in the atmosphere of post-war Rotterdam, celebrating the city's liberation with music, dance, and reflection.

 

Music and dancing: from 1945 to today

A live band will guide guests through different musical eras, from the jubilant sounds of post-war celebrations to contemporary party beats. Rotterdam-based DJ duo Non de Jus and Rita Lynn will play an uplifting mix of liberation anthems and energetic dance tracks, bringing the spirit of freedom to life on the dance floor.

 

Freedom messages and alcohol-free mocktails

Beyond dancing, visitors will have the chance to reflect on the meaning of freedom. They can leave a personal message about liberty in the museum or take it into the city to inspire others during their Museumnacht journey. To enhance the 1945 atmosphere, the museum will serve alcohol-free ‘freedom mocktails’ in tribute to the spontaneous celebrations of that time.

 

Reflecting on freedom and Rotterdam’s wartime past

The event will also offer moments of reflection. Museum Rotterdam ’40-’45 NU’s permanent exhibition tells the story of Rotterdam during and after the Second World War, with personal accounts and historical artefacts. Visitors will gain a deeper appreciation of the city’s resilience and the significance of freedom, both then and now.

 

Museum Rotterdam and the future

Museum Rotterdam is currently working on developing a new city museum, a space dedicated to preserving and sharing Rotterdam’s heritage. Together with the municipality, efforts are underway to secure a permanent location for this project. Until then, the museum remains active through exhibitions, educational programmes, and city tours.

 

Location and accessibility

Museum Rotterdam ’40-’45 NU is located in Coolhaven, an area well connected by public transport. The nearest metro station is Coolhaven, and the venue is easily accessible by bicycle or on foot from the city centre.

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