HAPPENING 4–6 JULY 2025 | Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival is an annual music event which takes place at the Noordplein in Rotterdam Noord. The event has grown into one of the best bluegrass festivals in Europe.
Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival is not just about music. There's also a wide range of workshops, exhibitions and jam sessions as well as underground comics. The three-day festival is also a good place to find fresh food and drinks at affordable prices. Get your hot dogs, perfectly golden brown fries, high-quality organic meat, vegan stew, chicken stew and salads from the various stands and food trucks. The next edition of Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival takes place on 4, 5 and 6 July 2025.
Tickets for Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival
If you've been a regular visitor in previous years, please note that the festival is no longer free for adults. This year, a day ticket costs €17 and a festival pass is €45. Children up to the age of 14 enter free if accompanied by an adult. Tickets and detailed information are available here.
Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival Line-up 2025
Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival features amazing folk artists from Europe and the USA. Artists performing at this year's Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival (so far) include:
HAPPENING 5 October 2025 | Experience the thrill of the Harbour Run Rotterdam, an annual event offering a challenging obstacle course through the iconic port of Rotterdam. Suitable for all levels, choose from 6 or 10-kilometre routes with nearly 30 obstacles for an unforgettable adventure.
The event caters to both seasoned athletes and beginners seeking a physical challenge. Over 250 company teams regularly participate, using the event as a team-building exercise. The combination of overcoming obstacles together and exploring the port creates a memorable day for all involved. The atmosphere along the course and at the start and finish areas, complemented by live music and various food trucks, contributes to the event's annual success.
Harbour Run Rotterdam 2025
On Sunday, 5 October, the 12th edition of the Harbour Run will take place in Rotterdam, attracting 7,000 participants. To accommodate this growth, the starting schedule has been adjusted, allowing additional start waves and giving more people the opportunity to take part in the Harbour Run.
The event has gained a dedicated following, with tickets selling out in record time this year. The race continues to highlight the growing popularity of running events in Rotterdam, a city known for its active lifestyle.
The Harbour Run organisers have expressed their excitement about the upcoming event. Joost Kuyper, the project leader, remarked, “We see increasing interest and enthusiasm among participants every year, which is great to witness.”
Participants will experience a unique course through Rotterdam’s port area, with several harbour businesses opening their grounds specifically for this event. The run starts and finishes at the RDM quay, where runners can choose between a 6 or 10-kilometre route. Along the way, participants will tackle 28 obstacles, adding an extra challenge to the experience.
Exclusive access to port terrains
Participants will traverse a course that winds through the expansive Rotterdam port. The event offers a rare opportunity, as the terrains of the port businesses are usually off-limits to the general public. This exclusivity adds a special allure to the obstacle run.
A team-focused obstacle run
Despite its rugged nature, the Harbour Run has built a reputation as a friendly and accessible event. In 2024, 280 corporate teams took part. Many of these teams represent companies based in the harbour and view the event as an annual opportunity for team-building and camaraderie. Teams often celebrate their achievement with a post-race gathering, reflecting on their shared experiences.
One of the participating teams, DACHSER, is bringing the largest group to this year's run. A team member commented, “What makes the Harbour Run special for us is not just the physical challenge, but also the fantastic atmosphere after the race. It’s an event that brings people together.”
A Growing Community in Rotterdam
Over the years, the Harbour Run has become an integral part of Rotterdam's event calendar, consistently attracting a large number of participants and spectators. Ramona, a previous participant with a corporate team from RET, described the event as “a sort of adult jungle gym.” She added, “It's incredibly fun to participate. We support each other in overcoming obstacles, wait for each other, and cheer each other on!”
Event registration details
Registration for the Harbour Run opens on 27 January 2025 via the official website. Both individual runners and corporate teams are encouraged to secure their spots early, as the event, even with increased capacity, is expected to sell out quickly.
Directions and Location
How to Get There
The Harbour Run will be held at the RDM quay in Rotterdam. Located on the south side of the river, the area is easily accessible by water taxi, public transport, or car. The RDM area is known for its industrial charm, offering a fitting backdrop for the event.
HAPPENING 1–2 February 2025 | The Wereldmuseum in Rotterdam will mark Chinese New Year with a weekend of cultural events. Visitors can immerse themselves in workshops, exhibitions, and festive activities inspired by the Lunar New Year traditions.
Lead photo: Capture your Chinese New Year memories with photographer Tyler Chan, who will create a festive group portrait of you, your friends, and family. Photo credit: Tyler Chan. Chinese Self Portraits.
Wereldmuseum celebrates Chinese New Year
The Wereldmuseum in Rotterdam will celebrate the Year of the Snake on 1 and 2 February 2025 with a variety of events and activities to honour the Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival. This celebration offers a chance for attendees to explore Chinese cultural traditions through exhibitions, workshops, and family-friendly festivities.
Programme highlights for the Lunar New Year
On 1 and 2 February, the Wereldmuseum will host a vibrant line-up of events tied to Chinese New Year traditions. The weekend includes interactive workshops, artistic activities, and cultural showcases designed to engage visitors of all ages.
One of the main attractions is a hands-on workshop where participants can create a Chinese snake with artist Hoi-Shan Mak. The snake, symbolising wisdom, transformation, and renewal, is an emblem of the Year of the Snake, which begins on 29 January 2025. This activity encourages reflection on personal growth and change.
Art enthusiasts can also learn about traditional Chinese woodblock printing techniques in a session inspired by renowned 20th-century Chinese artist Qi Baishi. Participants will create their own replica print, connecting with centuries-old artistic practices.
Qi Baishi-inspired workshop: traditional Chinese woodblock printing technique
Children and families can head to the museum's Superstraat for creative workshops with artists Lili Zhou and Sofie Xie. Activities include crafting red paper decorations, which symbolise luck in Chinese culture, practising calligraphy by writing characters for “luck” and “snake,” and making a lucky goldfish (Hóngbāo). These workshops aim to introduce young visitors to Chinese customs in a fun and engaging way.
A festive photobooth by photographer Tyler Chan will allow visitors to take home a cherished memory of the celebration. Against a vibrant backdrop, friends and families can have their portraits taken as part of the festivities.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can also explore the Made in China exhibition, which delves into China's centuries-old and contemporary craftsmanship. The exhibition includes art, fashion, photography, and more, showcasing the enduring and evolving culture of making in China.
Other festive events across Rotterdam
In addition to the museum's activities, the Wereldmuseum will participate in public Lunar New Year celebrations. On 8 February, a tram-based event will take place on Westkruiskade, a hub of Asian culture in Rotterdam, followed by children’s activities on 9 February at Deliplein in Katendrecht.
Practical information
Dates:
Main celebration: 1 and 2 February 2025
Westkruiskade tram event: 8 February 2025
Deliplein children’s activities: 9 February 2025
Tickets: Participation in workshops is free with museum entry. Holders of Museumkaart, Rotterdampas, or Vriendenloterij cards enter free of charge. Advance registration for activities is not required.
Directions to the Wereldmuseum Rotterdam
The Wereldmuseum is located at Willemskade 25, near the Erasmus Bridge. It is easily accessible by tram, metro, and water taxi. Parking is available nearby, but public transport is recommended due to limited space.
HAPPENING 1 – 9 February 2025 | The annual ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament is the biggest tournament of its kind in the Netherlands. Past winners include tennis greats such as Roger Federer, Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, Stan Wawrinka Tomáš Berdych and Juan Martín del Potro.
In February 2025, the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament will be held in Rotterdam for the 52nd time. The exact dates are 1 – 9 February 2025, and the location is Rotterdam Ahoy. Ticket sales started on 24 May 2024.
Ever since its inception in 1972, the Rotterdam Open has been growing steadily. In 2018, the 45th edition of the World Tennis Tournament drew 122,846 spectators; a record for the Rotterdam-based ATP World Tour 500 series tournament.
Carlos Alcaraz set to debut at ABN AMRO Open
Good news from Wimbledon! The newly crowned champion Carlos Alcaraz has announced that he will make his debut at the ABN AMRO Open next year. The 21-year-old Spaniard will compete in Rotterdam, where he will face, among others, Jannik Sinner, the current world number one.
Tournament director Richard Krajicek on Alcaraz's debut: “Carlos Alcaraz has been high on our wish list for the past few years. With four Grand Slam titles to his name at just 21 years of age, he is among the most spectacular talents ever. It is high time that he is seen at the ABN AMRO Open.”
Who's playing at the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament?
Expect to see these top players in action in the singles tournament:
Jannik Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz
Daniil Medvedev
Alex De Minaur
Andrey Rublev
Grigor Dimitrov
Holger Rune
Jack Draper
Hubert Hurkacz
Arthur Fils
Sebastian Korda
Jiri Lechecka
Alexei Popyrin
Jordan Thompson
Felix Auger-Aliassime
Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard
Flavo Cobolli
Alexander Bublik
Matteo Berrettini
Tallon Griekspoor
Jan-Lennard Struff
Pedro Martinez
Zhizhen Zhang
Botic van de Zandschulp
Stan Wawrinka
Mees Rottgering
Stefanos Tsitsipas
The field is further completed by:
four players from the qualification tournament
one possible special exempt
one possible A+ wildcard
If the last two are not available, the next registered players will enter the tournament.
While the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament is a men's singles and doubles tournament, the event also includes a Wheelchair Tennis ITF-1 level singles and doubles tournament.
Félix Auger Aliassime wins the 2022 ABN AMRO world tennis tournament in Rotterdam
Past results of the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament
The Rotterdam Open has been around since 1976 and has had many of tennis' greatest players grace its court. Past winners include tennis legends such as Arthur Ashe (1972, 1975, 1976) and Boris Becker (1992). In 1979 Björn Borg defeated John McEnroe 6-4 6-2 to win the tournament final.
Recent tournament winners include Roger Federer, Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, Stan Wawrinka Tomáš Berdych and Juan Martín del Potro. Roger Federer is tied with Arhur Ashe for the most singles tournament wins at three a piece.
2024 — Jannik Sinner def. Alex de Minaur (7-5, 6-4)
HAPPENING 26 April 2025 | 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 that case, King's Day is moved forward to Saturday, April 26. This is why in 2025, King's Day is celebrated on the 26th April. 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.
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.
Where to party on King's Day
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.
King's Day festivals taking place:
Note that the information below is from 2024 and yet to be updated for 2025. However, all the main festivals tend to return every year, so check out their websites for up-to-date information.
If you're an expat or tourist, these festivals could be more fun, as the artist line-ups and musical genres (EDM, Hip Hop etc.) are more mainstream, rather than the traditional Dutch folk music.
Kingsland Festival
Kingsland Festival in Rotterdam is set to be a spectacular celebration of Koningsdag, the national holiday in honor of the King's birthday. Held in the expansive greenery of Het Zuiderpark, this festival is renowned as the largest of its kind in the Netherlands, drawing massive crowds and featuring some of the country's most prominent artists.
Festival-goers have various ticket options to choose from, with prices ranging depending on the time of purchase—Early Bird tickets start at around €50, Regular tickets at around €55, and Late Bird options go up to around €60. Group tickets are also available for those attending in parties of five or more. Adding to the convenience, Kingsland Rotterdam operates with e-lockers, which use a digital code eliminating the need for keys or a deposit.
Transportation to the festival is well-organized, with recommendations to park at Ahoy if driving, or to use the train and metro systems with Rotterdam Centraal as the central hub. Keep in mind that on Koningsdag, special transport regulations apply, including an adjusted train schedule and restrictions on alcohol consumption in transit areas.
The festival upholds strict house rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all. These include mandatory ID checks (as the event is 18+), a ban on smoking in enclosed spaces, and a zero-tolerance policy for drugs.
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.
The festival's line-up is usually 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 16:00 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 Rotterdam
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 2025 lineup includes artists like Aldonna, Angelboy, Benny Rodrigues, Changi, Daria Kolosova, Kettama, Prunk, and Young Marco.
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.
Other King's Day festivals usually taking place in Rotterdam:
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.
De Oranjetuin (not sure if happening in 2025)
King's Day welcomes a new player, De Oranjetuin. This block party 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. While the lineup remains a surprise, it's exclusively women behind the decks.
Royal Republic
Royal Republic offers a free celebration at Garden of Bird, showcasing a mix of hip-hop, R&B, afro, dancehall, and more. Plus, there's no shortage of drinks and wood-oven pizza to enjoy in the picturesque setting. This event has been happening every year since 2016, so we assume it'll be back in 2025.
Radio Tornado
Radio Tornado serves a diverse musical feast, from Italo disco to Chicago house and Caribbean to African tunes. On King's Day, they bring their eclectic blend to a block party at Mono with local DJs.
Koningsdag op het Stadhuisplein
Stadhuisplein, popular with younger crowds, is once again decking out in orange for King's Day. Celebrate with old and new friends over beers and cheers.
Koningsdag festival Baroeg (cancelled in 2025)
As Baroeg is currently undergoing renovations, we believe this event is cancelled. 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. The festivities run from 10:00 to 21:00.
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