HAPPENING 5 JUL 2026 | ROTTERDAM, 20 November 2025 – Dunya Festival is set to return to Rotterdam in 2026 with a new edition in the Zuiderpark. The free one day event will bring global sounds, spoken word and a Rotterdam-minded atmosphere to the south side of the city.
Dunya festival returns to Rotterdam Zuid
On Sunday 5 July 2026, Dunya Festival will take place in the Zuiderpark in Rotterdam Zuid, instead of its former location in Het Park by the Euromast. The festival is planned as a full day programme, with provisional times currently listed as being from 09.00 to 23.00. Entry is free.
Weekend duo with reggae roots
Dunya will be part of a weekend double bill in the Zuiderpark. On Saturday 4 July 2026, a new event called Reggae Roots is scheduled, described as a reggae festival that combines international artists with familiar Rotterdam names and emerging talent. On Sunday the park then hosts Dunya Festival.
Rotterdam Festivals and the municipality frame this “weekender” approach as a way to programme more free events on Zuid while sharing production costs. A similar pairing later in the season links Baroeg Open Air with Fiesta Futura in the same park.
Ode to Rotterdam’s cultural richness
Dunya Festival is aimed at a young and open-minded audience, and for the 2026 edition, Dunya is being presented as a contemporary ode to Rotterdam’s cultural richness. Visitors can expect a mix of styles such as electronic Gnawa, Latin soul, Afrobeat, Arab hiphop and spoken word.
From poetry park to Zuiderpark
Dunya carries a long history in Rotterdam. The festival began in the late 1970s as Poetry Park and grew over the decades into a large free event at Het Park by the Euromast, with world music, poetry, storytelling and food stalls drawing tens of thousands of visitors.
In 2013, Dunya merged with Zomercarnaval under the umbrella of Rotterdam Unlimited, and the last stand alone Dunya edition took place in 2012. The 2026 edition is therefore framed as a return of a familiar name, but in a new setting and with a renewed focus on Rotterdam’s own cultural mix rather than a direct copy of the old format.
Why Dunya moves to the Zuiderpark
The choice for the Zuiderpark is connected to wider developments around festivals on Zuid. Metropolis Festival, which had been held in the same park for more than three decades, stopped after subsidy cuts, leaving space in the July events calendar. Rotterdam Festivals actively sought new, mainly free concepts to fill that gap, with a particular focus on Zuid.
Dunya now takes up that space “in a new jacket” at the Zuiderpark. In municipal communication, the festival is mentioned alongside other new and existing events in the area, illustrating a policy line that aims to spread cultural activity more evenly across the city and give Rotterdam Zuid a stronger festival profile.
How to get to Zuiderpark
Zuiderpark is located in Rotterdam Zuid, in the Charlois area, and should not be confused with Het Park by the Euromast. The park stretches between the Slinge and Vaanweg corridors and is surrounded by residential districts, sports fields and water features.
The area can be reached by metro via Zuidplein, combined with a short walk or bus connection towards the park entrances. Cyclists from the north side of the river can cross via the Erasmusbrug or Maastunnel and follow signposted routes into Zuid. Drivers use main roads such as Vaanweg and S102, but on busy festival days public transport and the bicycle are likely to be the most practical options.
HAPPENING 29 NOV 2025 | The day after Black Friday, BlueCity invites Rotterdammers to swap, repair, knit and upcycle instead of chasing discounts. On Saturday 29 November, the old Tropicana swimming pool becomes Changez: a circular department store with Rotterdam’s biggest clothing swap, hands-on workshops, a sustainable Christmas market and even free sauna sessions.
What is Changez?
Changez is a one-day pop-up department store dedicated to circular living. For the seventh year in a row, BlueCity turns the former Tropicana wave pool into a place where clothes, textiles and gifts get a second life, under the cheeky motto “F*ck Black Friday”.
Instead of pushing flash sales and impulse buys, the event focuses on re-use, repair and thoughtful gifts. Visitors can trade in unworn clothes, learn how to mend favourites, join creative upcycling workshops and browse a market full of Rotterdam makers and circular brands.
Swap, repair and knit your wardrobe
At the heart of Changez is a large clothing swap hosted by The Swapshop, promoted as the biggest clothing exchange in Rotterdam. Visitors hand in up to five pieces of clothing, receive a swap budget and then hunt for new favourites in the old wave pool, now lined with rails of pre-loved items.
Those who would rather fix what they already own can head to the Textiel Repair Café Katendrecht, where volunteers help with buttons, zips, small holes and other everyday repairs.
For people who enjoy working with yarn, the “Niet Lullen Maar Breien” knitting club sets up a cosy breicafé in true Rotterdam style, turning the former subtropical pool into a social knitting spot for a day.
Upcycling workshops and sustainable Christmas market
Throughout the day, the BlueCity Lab hosts creative upcycling workshops, led by partners such as Aida Atelier, Bobbinhood and Ikigai Label. Participants can experiment with embroidery, screen printing and natural textile dyes to give old garments a fresh look instead of buying something new.
Alongside the workshops, there is a sustainable Christmas market with around twenty circular makers and entrepreneurs, offering items such as upcycled design pieces, fair gifts, food products and other low-impact presents for the December season. Names mentioned include Buurman Rotterdam, Wereldwinkel Rotterdam, Rotterzwam, Rebel Remake and Basecamp.
Relax at Bar Stroom and the sauna deck
Changez visitors enter via Bar Stroom, BlueCity’s bar and restaurant space on the Maasboulevard. Here, guests can stay for drinks and snacks, including a new burger created by Het Nieuwe Nassen.
On the outdoor deck, Lava Sauna opens specially for the event. Visitors can book a free 20-minute sauna session (with swimwear required), turning a day of swapping and repairing into a mini spa visit with river views.
Why Changez is organised
The organisers point out that the global textile industry is a major source of pollution and waste, while there is already enough clothing in circulation to dress several future generations. Changez is designed to show that re-using, repairing and swapping can be fun, social and accessible, while quietly lowering the impact of our wardrobes.
By focusing on skills, creativity and local makers rather than fast discounts, the event offers a clear alternative to Black Friday routines.
Practical information
Event Changez – F*ck Black Friday
Date & time Saturday 29 November 2025, 10:00–16:00 (Bar Stroom stays open until about 18:00)
Location BlueCity / Bar Stroom Old Tropicana swimming pool Maasboulevard 100–102, Rotterdam
Tickets Ticket prices range from €1.50 to €20, depending on whether you only visit the event or also join a guided tour or workshop.
More information & tickets Details about the full programme and ticket options are available here.
HAPPENING 20–23 NOV 2025 | Fenix hosts a four-day programme to mark fifty years of Suriname’s independence. From 20 to 23 November, Srefidensi op Plein brings together food, music, theatre and storytelling, highlighting the connections between Suriname and Rotterdam.
Marking 50 years of srefidensi
Suriname became an independent state on 25 November 1975, ending its period as a Dutch colony. The word Srefidensi refers to independence or self-determination in Sranantongo. The anniversary is a moment to look back at history while also focusing on the future. Across Suriname and the diaspora, the day is observed with festivals that honour the country’s landscapes, communities and cultures.
At Fenix, Srefidensi is shaped through dishes, scents, performances and rituals that originate in both Suriname and the Netherlands. The programme offers visitors a way to experience how Surinamese traditions remain present in Rotterdam’s cultural fabric.
Programme overview
Crossing Tables | Thursday 20 November
This Surinamese edition of Crossing Tables is led by recipe developer and cookbook author Raghenie Bhawanie, who traces the journey of roti across migration, colonial history and cultural exchange.
Wat de wind ons vertelt | Friday 21 November
A theatre performance featuring four women with roots in Africa, Asia, South America and Europe. The production follows their search for ancestors and the stories hidden in their family histories.
Brasadag | Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November
A weekend gathering filled with music, dance, food and craft. Market stalls offer dishes and snacks, while live performances animate Plein throughout the day.
Un Firi, Un Fow | Sunday 23 November
Cultural platform Tailors & Wearers presents new work dedicated to the angisa, the Afro-Surinamese folded headscarf. The launch of the project Angisa – 50 jaar includes new designs and an angisa folding book, created in dialogue with three generations of Rotterdam-Surinamese women.
The four-day event offers an accessible way to explore Suriname’s cultural heritage through food, performance and shared stories, in the heart of Katendrecht.
HAPPENING 27 April 2026 | The vibrant spirit of King's Day (Koningsdag) comes to life in Rotterdam. The historic celebration of the Dutch monarch's birthday is marked by a range of exciting events, including a royal walking route, performances, and activities throughout the city.
When is King's Day celebrated?
Since 2014, King's Day has been celebrated on the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, April 27, unless this date falls on a Sunday, in which case, King's Day is moved forward to Saturday. The upcoming King's Day is celebrated on the Monday, 27th April 2026, and is recognized as an official public holiday in The Netherlands. The evening before King's Day is called King's Night (Koningsnacht) and is generally an opportunity for a good night of clubbing and bar-hopping.
The royal family will visit Dokkum in 2026, while Rotterdam does its own thing as usual.
A short history of King's Day
King's Day (Koningsdag) in the Netherlands is a national holiday celebrating the Dutch monarchy and the birthday of the reigning monarch. It originated in 1885 as “Princess's Day,” honouring Princess Wilhelmina's birthday. When she became queen in 1890, it was renamed Queen's Day (Koninginnedag) and celebrated on her birthday, 31 August. Over time, it became a festive occasion with street markets, parades, and public festivities. Queen Juliana moved the date to her birthday, 30 April, in 1949, and Queen Beatrix retained the date to honour her mother, despite her own birthday being in January. When King Willem-Alexander ascended the throne in 2013, the holiday was renamed King's Day and moved to his birthday, 27 April. The day is marked by nationwide celebrations, music festivals, and vibrant orange-themed events, reflecting the royal House of Orange.
Big King's Day events in Rotterdam (2026)
On King's Day, you can party everywhere in the city. Every bar and club will be open and offer a nice day or evening filled with activities and live performances. In other words, you don't need to go to a major festival, as the atmosphere is best experienced in the city streets and its brown bars. Moreover, every town square and shopping street will be transformed into flea markets, where anybody can set up a table with goods for sale. Be sure to arrive early if you want to find vintage gems.
However, if you are looking for a proper, large music / EDM festival with a solid line-up, then look no further. We have listed the most popular events for you right here.
Note that the information below is from 2025 and yet to be updated for 2026. However, all the main festivals tend to return every year, so check out their websites for up-to-date information.
Kralingse Bos Festival (KBF)
Kralingse Bos Festival, now known simply as KBF, is ready to turn heads on King's Day. It promises to be a day of non-stop festivities that are quintessentially Rotterdam; less talk, more celebration. KBF is confirmed for Monday 27 April 2026, running from 13:00 to 23:00 in Kralingse Bos.
Expect an eclectic mix of genres aimed at energizing and captivating attendees with performances from urban to house music.
Access to the festival is restricted to those 18 and over, with ID checks at the entrance. KBF is well-connected to public transport, advising against car travel due to safety and parking considerations. It's recommended to use the metro, tram, or e-scooters, with the festival providing clear guidance on the best routes from various starting points, including nearby cities.
Attendees can expect a plethora of food stands and bars catering to various dietary requirements, although personal food and drinks are not permitted on-site. To ensure a smooth experience, the festival is a 'pin only' event, making transactions quicker and more environmentally friendly. For added convenience, lockers will be available to store personal items safely.
For those looking to capture the royal festivities of KBF, you're advised to arrive early, especially if you have an Early Entrance Ticket which requires entry before 15:00 to avoid additional charges. Keep in mind that once you're in, there's no re-entry, so make sure to bring everything you need to enjoy the festival to the fullest.
Oranjebitter Festival is listed for Monday 27 April 2026 at 14:00 in Roel Langerakpark, Rotterdam, with an 18+ age indication and pre sale tickets at €35 already sold out
Oranjebitter Rotterdam takes the celebration of King's Day to the next level with an electrifying event set to take place at Roel Langerakpark. The festival offers an immersive experience with three stages delivering a diverse range of electronic music genres. Partygoers can expect a sonic journey through euphoric rave, pounding techno, and high-energy hypersonic house sounds, all under the banner “The Future Is Orange”.
Oranjebitter Festival will feature a diverse lineup across three stages, offering genres such as euphoric rave, techno, and hypersonic house.
The festival's ethos is steeped in inclusivity and enjoyment, making it an essential destination for music enthusiasts on this Dutch national holiday. For more information on tickets, the line-up, and general FAQs, visitors can explore Oranjebitter's official website.
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Other (smaller) King's Day festivals usually taking place in Rotterdam:
A triple threat of indie parties at Rotown
If you’re looking for an alternative to the orange-filled festival fields, Rotown typically has you covered with a three-part celebration that spans King’s Night (26th) and King’s Day (27th). Nestled near Eendrachtsplein, this intimate live music venue and club turns into a haven for indie lovers, electronica die-hards, and anyone who prefers a bit of grit with their glitter.
De Oranjetuin
This block party, or mini-festival, kicks off the opening of De Kerktuin, a pop-up terrace next to the Arminius Church. Expect a casual vibe with dancing, beer, and good company. The deejay line-up is unique as it is always exclusively women behind the decks.
Royal Republic
Royal Republic offers a free celebration at Garden of Bird, a King’s Day celebration featuring DJs from BIRD’s regular club nights. From early in the afternoon, visitors can enjoy an open-air mix of hip-hop, R&B, Afro, dancehall and future beats, with cocktails, beach chairs and wood-fired pizzas setting the tone for a relaxed afternoon.
The music spans across genres and generations, offering both dancefloor energy and laid-back vibes. Entry is free.
Radio Tornado
In recent years Yardbird and Radio Tornado have joined forces for a King’s Day XL block party at and around MONO. Typically, two outdoor stages will deliver a lively mix of disco, house, Afro and hip-hop.
After 23:00 ish, the party continues indoors with the official afterparty, taking the celebration all the way to the late hours of the night.
Kroonjuweel
Kroonjuweel Festival at the Merwe-Vierhavens invites you to celebrate King's Day with a mix of techno, uplifting house, and blazing hard-techno rave.
Koningsdag op het Stadhuisplein
Stadhuisplein, popular with younger crowds, is usually always decking out in orange for King's Day.
Koningsdag festival Baroeg (cancelled in 2025)
As Baroeg is currently undergoing renovations, we believe this event is also cancelled in 2026. The annual (and totally free) King's Day festival at Baroeg usually features various energetic bands ready to rock through the national holiday.
Sweet Kingsday Festival
The Sweet Kingsday Festival in Lombardijen is a family affair, offering a full day of bands, live acts, and DJs in the Spinozapark. Children can enjoy playground amenities, and with plenty of food and drink options, you can settle in for the long haul.
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Practical tips for King's Day in Rotterdam
Wear orange: it is not mandatory, but you will blend in more easily. Even a scarf or hat counts.
Travel smart: public transport runs, but routes can change and stops may close temporarily near large events. Check 9292 or NS apps before you leave.
Bring card, not cash: most festivals and many bars around the larger events are pin only.
Check alcohol rules: some busy areas and public transport zones have restrictions on drinking in the street. The municipality publishes temporary regulations in the run up to King's Day.
Plan toilets and food: queues can be long at peak times, especially near Kralingse Bos and Stadhuisplein. Street food is widely available, but vegetarian and vegan options vary by location.
Look beyond the big names: smaller block parties and neighbourhood festivals can be less crowded, cheaper and more relaxed, especially if you are with children.
Rotterdam is a city that suits King's Day: practical, slightly rough around the edges and very good at turning any square into an open air festival. Whether you go for a huge production in the park, a free block party in the city centre or a family event in the suburbs, you will find somewhere to raise a plastic cup to the king.
HAPPENING 22 March 2026 | The beloved elephant Olli returns to the stage for a new family concert with the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra. On Sunday 22 March 2026, the concert hall of De Doelen transforms into a musical playground for Olli begint een orkest — an imaginative production for children aged four and up.
The story follows Olli, the bravest elephant in the Netherlands, as he sets out to become a street musician in the big city. Along the way, he meets other musicians who join him in forming a joyful travelling orchestra. But when the city’s pigeons ban music, Olli and his friends must unite through the universal language of melody and rhythm to restore harmony to the streets.
A Rotterdam story in music
Based on the picture book Olli begint een orkest by Didi Bok and Hein Mevi, the production is a collaboration between the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and RAAF muziektheater, featuring Nina Elisa Euson as Olli. The performance combines live orchestral music, theatre and interaction, inviting children to sing, clap and dance along.
The show’s signature tune, Wij zijn een rondreizend orkest, is available online with lyrics and a video so young visitors can rehearse at home before joining in at the performance.
A local icon returns
Olli is more than just a storybook character — he’s part of Rotterdam’s heart. Originally created as a plush mascot for Diergaarde Blijdorp, the cheerful elephant became an instant sensation in 2013 when sales of nearly 10,000 Olli toys helped save the zoo from financial trouble.
Since then, Olli has grown into a true city icon — the official mascot of Feyenoord, the star of an ASR insurance campaign that won a Gouden Loeki, and even a character with a talent agent in Los Angeles. The Olli books have been translated into several languages, spreading Rotterdam’s favourite elephant’s charm far beyond the city.
