Special Events - RotterdamStyle.com

Breitling X RIF010 surf clinic: Surf lessons in Rotterdam

Bryan van Putten Special Events 08 October 2024

HAPPENING 12-26 October 2024 | Urban surf park RiF010 in Rotterdam will host surf lessons in collaboration with Breitling, offering participants a chance to experience the thrill of surfing in the heart of the city. The sessions are designed for both beginners and experienced surfers.

In October, urban surf RiF010 will partner with Swiss watch brand Breitling to offer surf lessons in their innovative wave pool, providing a unique opportunity to learn or improve surf skills.

Surf lessons at urban surf RiF010

Throughout three Thursdays in October—on the 12th, 19th, and 26th—Breitling will be offering surf clinics at urban surf RiF010, located in the Steigergracht area of Rotterdam. These lessons are targeted at beginners but also cater to experienced surfers seeking to enhance their techniques. Each session runs from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM, with professional instructors guiding participants through the basics and helping them master essential surfing techniques in a controlled environment that simulates ocean waves.

RiF010: Rotterdam’s urban surf destination

The RiF010 wave pool is unique, offering surfers the experience of ocean waves in the middle of Rotterdam. The facility boasts two surf spots: 'De Baai' for beginners and 'Het Rif' for more experienced surfers, where the waves are faster and larger. RiF010 also offers other activities such as canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore Rotterdam’s waterways from a different perspective.

Breitling and the world of surfing

Breitling’s association with the surfing world dates back to 1957, with the launch of its first SuperOcean dive watch. This long-standing connection has grown through the years, as Breitling continues to support surfing initiatives worldwide. According to Jan-Paul ten Hoopen, Breitling Netherlands’ Managing Director, “Whether at our Breitling Boutique in Meent or in the waters at RiF010, we are thrilled to introduce people to the unique surf culture.”

Participants in the Breitling X RiF010 surf clinic will not only enjoy an exclusive surf lesson but will also be part of Breitling's 140th-anniversary celebrations. Attendees will have the chance to view the latest Superocean watch collection, which includes modern updates to classic models from the 1960s and 1970s.

How to participate

Interested participants can join any of the three scheduled sessions or sign up for all of them. Surf clinics are limited in capacity, and registration is required via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Location and directions

RiF010 is located in the Steigergracht, near the Markthal, making it easily accessible from central Rotterdam. The wave pool is a short walk from Blaak Station, and nearby parking is available for those driving. Whether arriving by car, foot, or public transport, RiF010 is well-situated for visitors seeking to explore the city or participate in water activities.

Spectacular floating art studio 'Lorin' moors in Rotterdam

Bryan van Putten Special Events 03 October 2024

HAPPENING 7–12 October 2024 | The floating art studio and performance ship 'Lorin' returns to Rotterdam, bringing a unique blend of art and music to the city's waterways. The Lorin's Promenade will showcase works by both Dutch and international artists, transforming the Spoorweghaven into a cultural hub.

Lorin's Promenade returns to Rotterdam

In October 2024, the floating art project Lorin's Promenade will once again dock in Rotterdam. The Lorin, a ship that has served as a creative space for Swiss artist Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili for over 15 years, will host an eclectic mix of art exhibitions and live performances. Known for its dynamic integration of visual art, music, and light, this year's edition will feature both Dutch and international artists as part of its programme.

A floating gallery and performance venue

The Lorin’s former cargo space, now known as the CargoSpaceGallery, will exhibit visual art alongside live performances from a variety of artists. Audiences will have the opportunity to witness performances on deck and attend concerts in the ship’s converted concert hall. The CargoSpaceConcerts will include performances of electronic music, classical works, and live experimental compositions.

Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili, a multi-talented artist known for her interdisciplinary approach, will lead these performances, collaborating with other artists and musicians to create unique experiences. The ship's concerts are designed to reflect the interaction between art and the environment, with the water itself playing an essential role in the performance.

Focus on art and diversity

A key feature of this year’s programme is a collaboration with ForumMusicDiversity (FMD) from Switzerland. The FMD's programme will explore themes of dominance, manipulation, and oppression through a series of concerts and performances. Among the highlights is a special double concert featuring contemporary Iranian composers Anahita Abbasi, Elnaz Seyedi, Niloufar Nourbakhsh, and Fojan Gharibnejad. These performances will be followed by experimental works from Marie-Cécile Reber and Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili.

Other notable performances include the Interencounter concert, where electronic improvisations by Xicoribas will meet classical interpretations of Chopin and Debussy by Eero Schoch. These performances will take place both on board the Lorin and in various locations across Rotterdam.

International artists on board

Lorin's Promenade brings an international flavour to Rotterdam’s artistic scene. Alongside the local artists, participants from Ibiza, Basel, and Strasbourg will also be presenting their works. One of the standout performances in Rotterdam is Videocity, which will feature video art by Ukrainian artists such as Maksym Khodak, Olia Federova, and Yana Bachynska, alongside works by Iranian artists Sara Sasani and Zohre Solati. These videos will be accompanied by live music from Niki Neecke and Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili.

Rotterdam event schedule

The Rotterdam portion of Lorin’s Promenade will take place from 7 to 12 October 2024 at Levie Vorstkade 30, 3071AG, Spoorweghaven, Rotterdam. During this time, visitors will be able to explore exhibitions at the CargoSpaceGallery and attend various performances both on board the Lorin and along the Spoorweghaven. Below is the full schedule of events.

7 October 2024

14:00 - 18:00 | CargoSpaceGallery open
16:30 | Lorin’s Post Office performance with Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili
20:00 | Performances by Iranian composers Anahita Abbasi, Elnaz Seyedi, Niloufar Nourbakhsh, and Fojan Gharibnejad, featuring Seraina Ramseier, Jonas Tschanz, Olivia Steimel, and Karolina Öhman
21:00 | Experiments with Marie-Cécile Reber and Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili

9 October 2024

19:30 - 21:00 | Interdisciplinary Videocity featuring Ukrainian video artists, with live performances by ensemble drivingarts & sounds, Xicoribas, Niki Neecke, and Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili

10 October 2024

20:00 | Unauthorised Sunset with Asako Fujimoto and Niki Neecke

11 October 2024

20:00 | Interencounter with Anmari Mëtsa Yabi Wili, Eero Schoch, and Xicoribas

12 October 2024

19:30 - 20:30 | PerformanceDrive with ensemble d r i v i n g s o u n d s & a r t s | Route: Spoorweghaven, Noordereiland, Erasmusbrug, Spoorweghaven
21:30 until close | Finissage with surprise performances

Event location: Spoorweghaven, Noordereiland

Located near Rotterdam’s city centre, Spoorweghaven is easily accessible via the Erasmus Bridge. Visitors can enjoy views of the Rotterdam skyline while experiencing the cultural offerings on board the Lorin.

Spectacular floating art studio Lorin

Tuschinski Festival Rotterdam - event details

Bryan van Putten Special Events 09 September 2024

HAPPENING 13–14 September 2024 | The Tuschinski Festival returns to Little C and Coolhaven this September, celebrating the cultural heritage of the area’s namesakes with music, exhibitions, and workshops. Residents and visitors alike are invited to attend this free, two-day event that puts the spotlight on local talent.

Tuschinski Festival returns to Little C and Coolhaven

The next Tuschinski Festival will take place on 13 and 14 September 2024, celebrating the history and culture of Rotterdam’s Little C and Coolhaven districts. The event is organised by Stichting Tuschinski Rotterdam and will focus on the stories behind the neighbourhood’s namesakes: Abraham Tuschinski, Karl Weisbard, and Samuel Soesman.

This year’s theme, “Everyone deserves a stage” (Iedereen verdient een podium), aligns with the spirit of legendary cinema founder Abraham Tuschinski, known for championing creativity and artistic expression.

Events and activities

Visitors to the Tuschinski Festival can expect a variety of events aimed at showcasing both emerging local talent and the historical significance of the area. Planned activities include:

Jazz performances and live music from upcoming talent
Exhibitions and talk shows highlighting cultural history
Interactive tours through the neighbourhood, exploring its architecture and namesakes
Creative music workshops for children, encouraging artistic expression

The festival promises an engaging weekend where the community can come together to celebrate the legacy of its founders and the vibrant spirit of Little C and Coolhaven.

Practical information

Dates: 13 and 14 September 2024
Location: Little C and Coolhaven, Rotterdam
Admission: Free (some activities may require registration)

Open to all, whether locals or visitors from afar, the Tuschinski Festival offers an opportunity to meet new people and learn more about the history of this evolving neighbourhood.

For those interested in contributing with an activity or performance, the organisation welcomes collaboration.

Directions and venue

Little C and Coolhaven are located in the heart of Rotterdam, easily accessible by public transport, car, and bicycle. The area is known for its unique blend of modern architecture and historical charm, making it an ideal setting for the festival’s cultural celebrations.

Festival Downtown Rotterdam - location, date, artist line-up

Bryan van Putten Special Events 18 September 2024

HAPPENING 20–21 September 2024 | Festival Downtown returns to Rotterdam this September, marking its 10th anniversary. The event will take place across multiple locations in the heart of the city, featuring an eclectic line-up of international and local artists.

The festival, which has long been part of Rotterdam’s cultural fabric, offers a two-day programme on 20 and 21 September 2024. The daytime events will be free to attend, while tickets will be required for the evening shows.

Festival Downtown returns to Rotterdam

Festival Downtown, which was awarded 'Best Festival' at the Rotterdam Music Awards in 2023, is set to make its 10th appearance. The event will be held across 10 indoor and outdoor locations within Rotterdam’s inner city, including WORM, Club Centraal, Boomgaardsstraat, and Eendrachtsplein. The festival has adopted the slogan “Free By Day / Cheap By Night,” emphasising its commitment to making the event accessible.

The festival is known for celebrating the cultural diversity of Rotterdam and its role as a hub for new musical movements. This year’s edition will continue to reflect this ethos with performances by artists from the UK, Netherlands, Syria, Belgium, and beyond.

Headliners include international and local talent

Among the festival’s headliners is Sherelle, who was named DJ Mag's Best British DJ in 2021. She will be joined by Syrian musician Omar Souleyman, whose blend of traditional and electronic sounds has earned him international acclaim. Another Taste, a Dutch collective, will also perform, alongside renowned drum and bass producer Flava D, and the experimental UK artist Iglooghost.

Other notable acts include UK-based Ghanaian performer K.O.G Soundsystem, and Samurai Breaks, who was recognised as DJ Mag’s Best Breakthrough Producer in 2021. These artists will be complemented by an extensive line-up of supporting acts, such as Martha Da'Ro, Franky Sticks & Wantinga, and Belgian artist Blck Mamba.

You can find the official festival line-up and ticket information on the Festival Downtown website.

A reflection of Rotterdam's evolving music scene

Festival Downtown is a reflection of Rotterdam’s pioneering role in the global music scene. Its organisers have consistently focused on presenting new and alternative music, offering a platform for emerging artists. The festival’s motto, “Redefining Rotterdam / Reshaping the Narrative” (Herschrijf de Stad), captures this vision.

Over the years, the festival has hosted early performances from local talents like De Likt, Pink Oculus, and Brintex Collective, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to the music scene.

Multiple venues across the city

This year, the festival will take place across a range of iconic locations. WORM, Club Centraal, and Eendrachtsplein will host various performances, while outdoor stages will be set up at Boomgaardsstraat and Westblaak. Each venue will showcase a mix of international and local talent, offering festival-goers a diverse musical experience.

Festival Downtown Rotterdam

Festival Downtown is known and respected for its progressive and above all diverse line-up. Each year, the Festival is looking to grow and aims to do so by booking solid headliners and local heroes and niche artists. Although the Festival is generally aimed at electronic and electronically inspired music, there is a lot of diversity on offer. At Festival Downtown, there's room for singer-songwriters, non-western artists, progressive hip-hop as well as electronic punk and the thickest heavy bass from the UK.

For an inside look at how it all got started, have a look at our 2019 interview with Festival Downtown founder Immanuel Spoor.

What to expect at Festival Downtown Rotterdam

How to get to the event

Location and directions:
The festival's venues are spread across central Rotterdam, easily accessible by public transport, cycling, or walking. WORM is located near Eendrachtsplein metro station, while Club Centraal and Cannibale Royale are a short walk from the area’s numerous tram and bus stops. Visitors are encouraged to explore the festival's various stages and immerse themselves in Rotterdam’s vibrant atmosphere.

David Wilson brings cabaret to Rotterdam for Playgrounds in Motion

Bryan van Putten Special Events 06 September 2024

HAPPENING 19–20 September 2024 | David Wilson's cabaret returns to Rotterdam with a unique mix of art, music, and film. The after-party for Playgrounds in Motion promises a thought-provoking and unconventional experience.

David Wilson brings unique cabaret show to Rotterdam

The internationally renowned artist and director David Wilson will be presenting his new show, David Wilson’s Cabaret, as part of the afterparty for the Playgrounds in Motion festival in Rotterdam. Taking place on 19 and 20 September at the Maassilo, Wilson’s show combines elements of art, music, and film, offering a unique cabaret performance that pushes the boundaries of the conventional.

Wilson, known for his radical and subversive work, specialises in queer-themed performances and productions that challenge societal norms. His most notable works include the short film Deep Clean, a provocative dance video that has sparked conversation and acclaim. Wilson's creations are often described as cinematic, playful, and unapologetically bold.

A diverse career in music and visual arts

David Wilson has been a prominent figure in the world of music videos and visual storytelling since 2010. He is the creative force behind several celebrated music videos, including the animation for Arctic Monkeys' “Do I Wanna Know?” and the emotionally charged “Titanium” by David Guetta and Sia. His work for Keaton Henson's “You Don't Know How Lucky You Are” showcased actress Sophie Thompson delivering an intense, four-minute performance in a Victorian costume in the middle of a field.

In his most recent project, Wilson directed a music video for R&B artist Mabel titled “Look at My Body Pt.II,” featuring Shygirl. The video blends fast-paced live-action with surreal visual elements to explore how bodies are represented in the media.

David Wilson brings cabaret to Rotterdam for Playgrounds in Motion

Awards and ongoing collaborations

Wilson has received recognition for his creative achievements, having been named 'Best Director' at the MTV Awards UK and earning Grammy nominations, as well as winning both Cannes Gold and Eurobest Gold. In addition to his directing work, he has served as an art director for major brands like Nike, Apple, IKEA, Spotify, and LEGO, and continues to collaborate with notable musicians including Arctic Monkeys, Arcade Fire, Tame Impala, Lady Gaga, and Christine and the Queens.

Playgrounds in Motion festival at Maassilo

The Playgrounds in Motion festival, held on 19 and 20 September in Rotterdam, will feature Wilson’s cabaret as its main afterparty event. The festival itself is an international showcase of post-digital storytelling and genre-defying media projects presented by contemporary designers and artists. Each edition of the festival, including the Rotterdam event, focuses on different themes and aims to push the boundaries of digital art, animation, film, and gaming.

This year’s edition will transform traditional stage talks into sensory performances that aim to captivate and surprise the audience. The festival promises a unique experience for visitors who are eager to explore the latest trends in digital and multimedia art.

Location and directions

Maassilo, Rotterdam

The event will be held at Maassilo, a former grain silo turned cultural venue located in the vibrant Maashaven area of Rotterdam. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, including metro and tram lines, and is a short walk from the Maashaven metro station. The Maashaven district is known for its mix of industrial architecture and modern cultural spaces, offering a unique backdrop for the festival.