Amidst fluctuating weather conditions and environmental concerns, the first edition of Nationale Klimbosdag (National Climbing Forest Day) is set to take place on 13 September. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of forests while offering a unique outdoor experience.

The initiative behind the event

The event was initiated by Klimbos Nederland and Fun Forest. The purpose is to encourage people to experience the benefits of nature in a unique and playful manner, while also drawing attention to forest conservation. “We are proud that so many climbing forests are participating in the first edition of the Nationale Klimbosdag. Together, we invite children, young people, and adults to celebrate the climbing forests and nature,” said Ciaran Barsema, director of Klimbos Nederland.

The impact on health and well-being

Being in a forested environment has been shown to reduce stress hormones and increase happiness hormones. Coupled with physical activities like climbing and zip lining, the benefits are amplified.

Aiding forest conservation

Twenty climbing forest locations across the Netherlands, including Fun Forest Rotterdam and Abel Klimbos in Poortugaal, are participating in the event. For every ticket sold, €1 will be donated to Trees for All, contributing to the planting of new trees in areas where they are needed. “The ambition is to attract 1,500 visitors so that we can collectively plant at least 300 new trees,” said David Balhuizen, general director at Fun Forest.

Event details and participation

How to get there

Both locations are easily accessible by public transport and offer ample parking spaces for those who prefer to drive. The areas are known for their scenic beauty, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Directions to Fun Forest Rotterdam

Directions to Abel. Klimbos in Poortugaal

ROTTERDAM, 5 September 2023 – This weekend, WTC Rotterdam will participate in Open Monumenten Dag (Open Monuments Day) for the first time, offering a unique exhibition and guided tours to the public.

A weekend of exploration

More than 50 monuments in Rotterdam will be accessible to visitors on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September. Among them, WTC Rotterdam is making its debut in the event. The exhibition, titled 'Het monument van de toekomst' (The Monument of the Future), will be open from 11:00 to 17:00.

Guided tours by Ferrie Weeda

Ferrie Weeda, a historian and city guide in Rotterdam, will conduct three exclusive tours, showcasing various special locations within the monumental building. The tours are scheduled for 11:00, 12:00, and 13:00. Advanced registration is available, and eight spots per tour are open for walk-ins.

The evolution of trade in Rotterdam

Trade has been conducted in the city centre since 1598. Initially, a covered place known as the Beurs was established to protect traded grain from bad weather. Over the years, the Beurs moved to different locations within the city, eventually evolving into the WTC Rotterdam.

Transformation and sustainability

The building, which once served as a trading exchange, now houses approximately 100 offices. Since 2016, it has undergone significant revitalisation, designed by Architect Bierman Henket. Attention was paid to the original vision of J.F. Staal, who designed the building in the 1930s. Investments have also been made in sustainability, resulting in an A++ energy label.

A word from the managing director

Eveline Steenbergen, managing director of WTC Rotterdam, stated, "This place has significant historical value. The exhibition and tours demonstrate why this building is rightfully a Rijksmonument."

About WTC Rotterdam

Situated in the bustling city centre and the Central Business District, WTC Rotterdam has been owned by Bouwinvest since 2015. The building offers a range of facilities, including a congress centre, a hotel, and various dining options.

How to get there

WTC Rotterdam is centrally located in the heart of Rotterdam, making it easily accessible by public transport and car. The area is vibrant, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

A monthly residency at The Grit has been established, featuring DJ and producer Baggi as the main act, starting this September. The series, known as Off The Grit, will feature both emerging talents and established names in the electronic music industry. Among the first to join him will be Benny Rodriguez on 9 September.

Club manager Ali Can Sert stated, “Both Baggi and The Grit enjoy pushing boundaries, making this a perfect match.” He added that Baggi's unique style has garnered a loyal following worldwide, making his residency a special treat for The Grit's patrons.

A new chapter in Baggi's career

Having built a strong reputation on international stages and leading music festivals, Baggi is now returning to Rotterdam to host Off The Grit at The Grit monthly. This marks a significant milestone in his career and offers a unique opportunity for music enthusiasts and fans in the region.

“Rotterdam has always been my home. My monthly residency is a way to show my appreciation and share my love for music with the people who have supported me from the beginning,” Baggi said about his new venture.

Upcoming events at The Grit

LIMBO – Every Friday

Enter the club and get lost in time with a mix of 70's classics, today's hits, R&B, hip-hop, Latin, afro, and more.

WAISTLINE – Every Two Months

Expect a blend of afro and Caribbean sounds like dancehall, soca, and amapiano, curated by Nems.

MONDAY AT THE GRIT – Every Last Monday

Designed for those who work weekends. The music will be a mix of R&B, house, Latin, and afro.

PURPLE – Every Two Months

Featuring Afropop, Electronic, Funk, Hip-Hop, Hip-House, Nu-soul & RnB, curated by Feurich.

INFERNO– Every Two Months

Groovy, Funky, Boogie, Disco, House.

How to get to The Grit

The Grit is located in the heart of Rotterdam, easily accessible by public transport and just a short walk from key landmarks. The area is vibrant, filled with other nightlife options, making it a perfect spot for an evening out.

The inaugural Royal Championships for Queen & King of the Court in beach volleyball have been launched in Rotterdam, marking a significant milestone for the sport. The event, which runs from 5 to 10 September, promises to be a global gathering of top talent in the beach volleyball world.

The event was first annnounced and inaugurated a couple of months back with a unique spectacle as five players from Beachvolleybal Team Nederland descended from the iconic Euromast, passing a beach volleyball among them. The Euromast served as the backdrop for the introduction of this first-ever world championship in the Queen & King of the Court discipline.

World-class talent descends on Rotterdam

Thirty of the world's best teams in beach volleyball for each gender will compete in Rotterdam. The qualification tournament will feature 15 teams for each gender, with five teams advancing to the main tournament, where another 15 teams will directly qualify. In total, 120 players from over 25 countries will vie for the titles of Queens and Kings of Rotterdam.

Unique format and multiple venues

The championship will be held at five different locations across the city. The Royal Stadium at Henegouwerplein serves as the event's hub, while four side-courts are located at Afrikaanderplein, Museumpark, Schuttersveld, and Beachclub Rotterdam. The side-courts are open to the public free of charge.

Tickets and special occasions

Tickets for the Royal Stadium matches are available for purchase on the official website.

Social impact and community involvement

In collaboration with Sportbedrijf Rotterdam and Rotterdam SportSupport, various side-events will be organized within the local communities. The Royal Stadium will remain at Henegouwerplein for over two weeks, hosting various sporting and cultural events.

Wilco Nijland, CEO of Sportworx, emphasized the sport's growth, stating, “Rotterdam is a wonderful place to host the first World Championship.” Peter Blangé, CEO of Rotterdam Topsport, welcomed the Queen & King of the Court community to the city, highlighting the event's unique setup across multiple city locations.

How to get there

Directions to Henegouwerplein

Henegouwerplein is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport or car. The area is vibrant, surrounded by shops, cafes, and cultural spots.