HAPPENING 12 April 2025 | On Record Store Day, Rotterdam's record stores will come alive with live performances and exclusive vinyl releases at Plaatboef, Plato, and Velvet Music.

What is Record Store Day?

Record Store Day (RSD) is an annual event dedicated to celebrating independent record stores and the culture of vinyl music. Originating in 2008, the event was designed to support small music retailers by encouraging music lovers to visit their local stores. On this day, participating stores release exclusive vinyl records, often featuring rare tracks, special editions, or reissues.

In addition to the exclusive releases, Record Store Day is also known for live performances, artist signings, and other in-store events. It's a day where music enthusiasts gather to explore new sounds, connect with fellow collectors, and celebrate the role of independent stores in sustaining local music scenes.

Live performances across Rotterdam's record stores

Performances at Plaatboef

Plaatboef, located on Nieuwe Binnenweg, will host three live performances:

• 12:00 PM: BUG
• 2:00 PM: FIEP
• 5:00 PM: BOWL

Performances at Plato

Plato, a well-known record store that recently returned to Rotterdam, will feature a full day of performances from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM:

• 10:00 AM: Diggy Dex
• 11:00 AM: Bongloard
• 12:00 PM: Charlot
• 1:00 PM: Hiigo
• 2:00 PM: Isaac Roux
• 3:00 PM: De Kraaien
• 4:00 PM: De Toegift
• 5:00 PM: Anneke van Giersbergen

Performances at Velvet Music (Oude Binnenweg)

Velvet Music’s location on Oude Binnenweg will present two performances:

• 12:00 PM: Dio
• 2:00 PM: WAAN

Performances at Velvet Music (Donner)

Velvet Music's secondary location inside Donner bookshop on Coolsingel will also host two performances:

• 12:00 PM: Sophie van Hasselt
• 2:00 PM: Sven Figee

Exclusive vinyl releases

Record Store Day is celebrated for its exclusive vinyl releases. Fans can expect a selection of special editions available only on the day of the event. Releases include limited-edition albums from artists such as Post Malone, Sixpence None the Richer, and Stone Temple Pilots.

Locations and directions

Plaatboef

Located at Nieuwe Binnenweg 81A, 3014 GE Rotterdam, Plaatboef is easily accessible via tram and bus services. The Nieuwe Binnenweg is a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Plato

Plato is situated at Meent 126, 3011 JS Rotterdam, close to popular shopping streets and eateries.

Velvet Music (Oude Binnenweg)

Velvet Music’s main location is at Oude Binnenweg 121A, 3012 JC Rotterdam. The surrounding area is lively with shops and cafes, ideal for spending a relaxed afternoon.

Velvet Music (Donner)

Velvet Music's secondary location inside Donner bookshop is found at Coolsingel 119, 3012 AG Rotterdam, right in the heart of Rotterdam’s shopping district.

HAPPENING 28 Sep–5 Oct 2025 | Premier Padel's P1 tournament is set to make a significant mark in Rotterdam Ahoy this September, promising an engaging event for padel enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Decathlon Premier Padel returns to Rotterdam in 2025

The second edition of the Decathlon Premier Padel Rotterdam has been announced for 2025, taking place from 28 September to 5 October at Rotterdam Ahoy. Over the course of the week, fans of padel will have the opportunity to watch high-level matches featuring some of the world’s top players.

The event, part of the international P1 circuit, aims to bring together sports enthusiasts and padel professionals for an engaging experience. Attendees can expect a mix of competitive matches and opportunities to engage with the sport themselves, including hands-on activities in a dedicated participation hall.

Early ticket sales with exclusive benefits

Public ticket sales for the event begin on 19 March 2025. For tickets, visit the official Premier Padel Rotterdam website.

Opportunities to participate in 2025

In addition to watching elite padel players compete, visitors will also have the chance to experience the sport themselves. Ahoy’s dedicated participation zone will be open to all visitors, providing opportunities for fans to get involved. Leading up to the tournament, various events will also be organised where participants can engage with the sport.

VIP experience for businesses

For those seeking a premium experience, the Decathlon Premier Padel Rotterdam offers a VIP package designed for networking and social gatherings. This package combines high-level padel action with unlimited access to a selection of culinary refreshments.

A new highlight in the Premier Padel calendar

Following the integration of Premier Padel and the World Padel Tour (WPT) under the International Padel Federation (FIP), the Rotterdam event represents a significant step in professionalizing the sport. 

Tribe Company, known for organizing large-scale events such as De Vrienden van Amstel LIVE and The Streamers, is in charge of organizing the Premier Padel P1 tournament in Rotterdam. Marc Nipius from Tribe Company shared his enthusiasm about organizing a top-tier international padel tournament in an ideal venue, aiming to combine high-quality sporting events with top entertainment.

Directions to Rotterdam Ahoy

Rotterdam Ahoy, the venue for the upcoming Premier Padel P1 tournament, is conveniently located and easily accessible.

To reach Rotterdam Ahoy, attendees can use public transportation, as it is well-served by bus and metro services. For those driving, the venue is easily accessible by car and offers ample parking facilities. The area around Ahoy is vibrant, with a variety of dining and leisure options for visitors to enjoy before or after the event.

 

HAPPENING 16 March 2025 | The Persian New Year will be celebrated in Rotterdam with the largest Nowruz market in the Netherlands, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

Experience the Persian New Year at the largest Nowruz market

On Sunday, 16 March 2025, de Doelen's Willem Burger Hall will host the largest Nowruz market in the Netherlands. The event celebrates the Persian New Year, known as Nowruz, which marks the arrival of spring on 20 March.

What to expect at the Nowruz market

Visitors can explore a variety of Persian products, including traditional delicacies, clothing, decorative items, and unique gifts. The market is designed to provide everything needed to prepare for Nowruz in a festive and authentic way.

In addition to shopping, there will be a dedicated children's programme featuring music, ancient storytelling, and interactive activities that introduce younger visitors to Persian heritage.

Cultural celebration for all ages

The Nowruz market offers an opportunity to connect with Persian culture and discover the traditions surrounding this centuries-old celebration. Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with colour and cultural exchange, making it an event suitable for families and individuals alike.

Event details

Date: Sunday, 16 March 2025
Time: 11:00 – 17:00
Location: de Doelen, Willem Burger Hall
Tickets: Standard ticket prices apply, excluding a service fee of €3 or €1.50 per ticket.

How to get there

De Doelen is centrally located in Rotterdam, easily accessible by public transport and within walking distance of Rotterdam Central Station. For those arriving by car, parking facilities are available nearby.

HAPPENING 16–18 April 2025 | MOMO Festival is one of the best known and most intimate festivals in Rotterdam. The festival brings together multiple forms of art – from music to dance – at different locations in the heart of the city.

MOMO is a festival of contrasts, with the always raucous Rotterdam in the background. Motel Mozaïque (MOMO) takes over Rotterdam again with an art, performance, and music program at special locations in the city. MOMO always delivers a jam-packed program of art, performances, tours, talks, and surprises.

When does the next edition of MOMO Festival take place?

MOMO Festival, celebrating a milestone 26th anniversary, will bring a diverse lineup to Rotterdam from 16 to 18 April 2025. Known for its fusion of art, music, and performance, the festival is set to feature established names alongside emerging talents, with venues across the city hosting a variety of performances and installations. Motel Mozaïque (MOMO) has announced an initial list of artists, promising a broad artistic experience and unique interactions with the urban environment. Tickets are available on the MOMO website.

What is MOMO Festival Rotterdam?

As the original name (Motel Mozaique) implies, MOMO Festival is a mosaic of music, art, and culture. The first edition was held in 2001 and in the two decades since, it has only got bigger and better. The MOMO Festival is held at different locations in Rotterdam's city centre; in theatres, cafés, concert halls, clubs and (former) churches. From daring art performances to unique guided city tours; MOMO is a unique festival that not only brings music to the city, but in a way, also brings the city closer to itself. Past editions of the festival featured up-and-coming superstars such as Luke Sital-Singh and George Ezra. 

MOMO Festival Rotterdam - dates, line-up, event information - Photo by Niek Hage

MOMO Festival's 2026 line-up

Unique venues and creative collaborations

MOMO Festival 2026 will extend across various new and iconic Rotterdam locations.

MOMO Festival Rotterdam - dates, line-up, event information - Photo by Rosa Quist

MOMO Festival official Spotify playlist

Aftermovie: Motel Mozaique Festival