HAPPENING 11–13 July 2025 | The annual North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam is a very high-quality festival where jazz music from the past, present and the future is presented, under one roof, for three days. In addition to jazz, you can also expect to hear blues, soul, funk, hip hop, world, pop and much more.

North Sea Jazz Rotterdam

The first edition of the North Sea Jazz Festival took place in 1976 in The Hague. The event drew about 9000 visitors and featured performances by artists like Sarah Vaughan, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie and Stan Getz. Since 2006 the festival has been organized in a new and more spacious location: Rotterdam Ahoy. The North Sea Jazz Festival has developed into a major international event with fifteen stages. Nowadays, the event draws between sixty-five thousand and seventy-five thousand visitors a year.

Past performers at North Sea jazz Rotterdam

In the past, many great names have performed at North Sea Jazz Rotterdam. To name a few: Nat Adderley, Erykah Badu, Paul Anka, Steve Coleman, Miles Davis, Candy Dulfer, Ibrahim Ferrer, Ella Fitzgerald, Alicia Keys, Lionel Hampton, Al Jarreau, B.B. King, Wynton Marsalis, Trijntje Oosterhuis, Jamiroquai, Shirley Horn, Tania Maria, Roy Hargrove, Rachelle Ferrell and The Zawinul Syndicate.

NN North Sea Jazz Festival announces 2025 programme

The complete line-up for the 2025 edition of the NN North Sea Jazz Festival has been announced. The event, set to take place on 11, 12 and 13 July at and around Rotterdam Ahoy, will feature over 150 performances across 17 stages. The full schedule is now available on the festival’s official website.

Celebrating jazz heritage and innovation

The upcoming edition continues its tradition of showcasing a wide spectrum of jazz, from swing and bop to fusion and free jazz. Renowned figures such as Herbie Hancock, Branford Marsalis and Lee Ritenour are among those slated to perform. Musicians like Terri Lyne Carrington, Sullivan Fortner and Emmet Cohen are expected to pay homage to classic jazz forms, while artists including Matteo Mancuso and Julian Lage will present more contemporary interpretations.

The genre's more experimental side will be represented by performers such as David Murray and Arild Andersen, alongside a younger generation including Mary Halvorson, Zoh Amba and Guy Salamon. The programme also includes artists working at the boundaries of jazz, such as Kassa Overall, Makaya McCraven, Ezra Collective and Dana and Alden, who blend jazz with other genres to explore new directions.

Non-traditional jazz countries featured

This year’s festival will also highlight musicians from regions not typically associated with jazz. Among them are South Korean vocalist Song Yi Yeon, Mongolian pianist Shuteen Erdenebaatar, and Armenian pianist Tigran Hamasyan.

Vocal performances take centre stage

Vocalists will play a prominent role in this edition, with artists such as Jacob Collier, Samara Joy and Lady Blackbird taking part, as well as emerging talents Christie Dashiell, Ganavya and aja monet. Well-known performers including Diana Ross, Norah Jones, Mary J. Blige and Maxwell will bring classic influences from soul, R&B and gospel. Contemporary acts like Celeste, Jorja Smith and Thee Sacred Souls will also reinterpret these genres.

Vocal ensembles will be featured as well, with appearances by ZO! Gospel Choir, Arp Frique & The Perpetual Singers, and Martin Fondse’s Voice Orchestra, which includes the six-part vocal group Vox Sturnus.

Jacob Collier named artist in residence

British multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier will serve as Artist in Residence. He will perform each day of the festival in a different format: with his band on Friday, solo with guests on Saturday following his afternoon clinic “Jacob’s Room,” and on Sunday with the Metropole Orkest.

Annual composition commission

Each year, the festival awards an open composition commission to a Dutch jazz composer. This year’s recipient is saxophonist Kika Sprangers. Her new work will premiere on Saturday, 12 July, performed by the Nederlands Kamerkoor and an ensemble featuring Alistair Payne (trumpet), Reinier Baas (guitar), Tijs Klaassen (double bass), Jonas Burgwinkel (drums), and Sprangers herself.

Recognition for emerging talent

The Paul Acket Award for “Artist Deserving Wider Recognition” will be presented to drummer, composer and bandleader Sun-Mi Hong on Friday, 11 July. In addition, the Open Stage will once again provide festival-goers the opportunity to showcase their own musical abilities. The festival will also include clinics, artist interviews, and a broad visual arts programme.

Location: Rotterdam Ahoy

Not sure how to get there? Check out our directions Rotterdam Ahoy.

HAPPENING 27 NOV–14 DEC | ROTTERDAM, 24 May 2025 – Rotterdam is set to play a central role in the 2025 IHF Women’s Handball World Championship. The city will host every stage of the tournament, including the final at Rotterdam Ahoy.

Rotterdam to host all stages of 2025 Women’s Handball World Championship

Rotterdam will serve as a principal host city for the 27th edition of the IHF Women’s Handball World Championship, scheduled from 26 November to 14 December 2025. The tournament will be co-hosted by the Netherlands and Germany and will feature 32 national teams competing for the world title.

Rotterdam has been designated to host matches across all phases of the event – from the preliminary round to the final. The Dutch national team will play its group stage matches at home, ensuring strong local support. Matches will begin at Rotterdam Ahoy on 27 November and culminate with the semi-finals and final on 12 and 14 December respectively.

Shared hosting between the Netherlands and Germany

The championship will be split across five host cities. Alongside Rotterdam, the Netherlands will also host matches in ’s-Hertogenbosch. Germany’s host cities include Dortmund, Stuttgart and Trier. France, the reigning world champions, will play in Den Bosch, while Denmark, Olympic champions Norway, and the host nations are considered key contenders.

Each city has been assigned specific roles to balance logistical needs and local fan engagement. Rotterdam’s Ahoy Arena will serve as the venue for the semi-finals and final, underscoring its importance in the tournament’s structure.

Ahoy Arena to stage championship matches

Rotterdam Ahoy, the city’s flagship indoor arena with a capacity exceeding 10,000, will provide the setting for all matches hosted in Rotterdam. Known for its experience with major events, including concerts, sports championships and Eurovision 2021, Ahoy is equipped with modern facilities and is expected to deliver a strong spectator experience.

Dutch national team matches are expected to attract large crowds, particularly during the knockout stages. The final on 14 December is anticipated to take place in front of a full house.

Community and economic impact

The tournament is expected to have a positive impact on Rotterdam’s economy, particularly in hospitality and tourism. With tens of thousands of visitors anticipated, local businesses including hotels, restaurants and shops are set to benefit.

City officials view the event as an opportunity to strengthen Rotterdam’s position as a leading Dutch sports city. More than one million spectators attend sporting events in the city each year, and the handball championship is projected to add significantly to that figure.

Local involvement and sporting legacy

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Netherlands Handball Association (NHV), German Handball Federation (DHB), and city officials. Volunteers are being recruited to support the event across multiple areas.

Rotterdam’s role in the tournament is also intended to inspire young athletes. Schools and local clubs are expected to take part in handball-themed activities, while national players like captain Lois Abbingh hope the visibility of the event will drive new interest in the sport.

Accessibility and visitor information

Directions to Rotterdam Ahoy

Rotterdam Ahoy is located in the Charlois district at Ahoyweg 10. It is accessible via Metro Lines D and E, with Zuidplein station a short walk from the venue. Travel from Rotterdam Centraal takes around 15–20 minutes. The city encourages visitors to use public transport or bicycles due to expected congestion and environmental considerations.

Parking is available on-site, with pre-booking options. Additional shuttle buses may operate during major matches.

HAPPENING 10–12 October 2025 | Rotterdam’s Dominican bachata scene will come alive this October with the return of BachaBAM!RDAM. The traditional dance festival marks its 5th anniversary with a full weekend of workshops, socials, and cultural immersion.

BachaBAM!RDAM festival to return for 5th edition in October

BachaBAM!RDAM will celebrate its fifth anniversary from 10 to 12 October 2025 at Nova Cultura in Hoogvliet, Rotterdam. Organised by local dance instructors Francisco Santana and Xiomara Diaz Granja, the festival is dedicated to Dominican-style bachata – a genre rooted in the Dominican Republic and distinct from the more widespread sensual or modern bachata styles.

Over the course of three days, participants can engage in a range of workshops, social dancing events, and cultural gatherings designed to promote the music, rhythm and tradition of Dominican bachata (also known locally as ‘bachata Dominicana’).

A weekend of dance and cultural connection

The anniversary edition features over 10 hours of workshops, three evening social parties, and communal meals with Dominican food and music. The festival opens on Friday evening with a welcome workshop and party, continues through Saturday with a full day of activities, and concludes on Sunday with afternoon sessions and a farewell social.

Saturday includes a mid-day break for Dominican food and music, followed by an early-evening social and a main party at night. Sunday’s activities begin with lunch and lead into a relaxed afternoon of dancing before the final evening social wraps up the event.

Emphasis on Dominican roots

Unlike many dance congresses that focus on fusion or sensual styles, BachaBAM is centred on the traditional form of the genre. Attendees can expect to hear classic artists such as Luis Vargas and Antony Santos, as well as contemporary tracks that maintain a Dominican flavour (sabor). Some merengue and bolero may also be included.

The festival aims to offer a welcoming space where dancers of all levels can engage in the improvisational and footwork-heavy style of Dominican bachata.

International and local instructors confirmed

The 2025 artist lineup brings together instructors and DJs from across Europe and the Caribbean. Confirmed artists include:

• Cristian & Katerina (Dominican Republic/Russia-Spain)
• Méline Teulier (France)
• Alberto Vasquez & Roberta Adabbo (Dominican Republic/Italy)
• Geno & Steffie from Bachata Passion (Netherlands)
• Randor & Samantha (Netherlands)
• Francisco & Xiomara (Rotterdam)

DJ sets will be handled by Latin Mania, Isza, El Pequeño Loco and Rachela, all known within the Dutch Latin music circuit.

Organisers rooted in the Rotterdam community

BachaBAM was launched by Francisco and Xiomara, who run Dominican Flow Academy in Rotterdam. They established the event to create a dedicated platform for authentic Dominican bachata in the Netherlands.

Since its inception around 2019 or 2021, the festival has grown into a staple of the Rotterdam dance calendar. It has become a meeting point for traditional bachata enthusiasts, both local and international.

Community-driven atmosphere

The event is noted for its inclusive and laid-back atmosphere, where instructors and attendees mingle freely. Workshops are generally open to all levels, and meals serve as an opportunity to connect beyond the dance floor.

While the event does not rely on corporate sponsorship, it is supported by community partnerships – such as with Bachata Passion Dance Company – and local food providers serving traditional Dominican dishes during the weekend.

Practical information for visitors

The venue, Nova Cultura in Hoogvliet, will host all activities under one roof. A bar is available for evening drinks, and attendees are permitted to bring their own water during daytime workshops. Food is available for purchase during scheduled breaks, but only cash or mobile payments are accepted.

Festival passes, including full and day options, will provide access to workshops and socials. Party-only tickets are usually available at the door for those wishing to attend the evening events exclusively. For more information, visit the official website. 

How to get to the venue

Nova Cultura is located in Hoogvliet, on the outskirts of Rotterdam, at Horsweg 10 (postcode 3192 ED). The area is accessible by metro and public transport, with free parking available nearby. The venue is known for its spacious dance floor and is commonly used for Latin dance events throughout the year.

HAPPENING 1–30 June 2025 | The annual Rotterdam Architecture Month presents an array of events celebrating the city's architectural landscape. Visitors can explore green gardens, artistic tours, and engage in insightful lectures and discussions.

Architecture festival returns with focus on circular design

Rotterdam Architecture Month 2025 (Rotterdam Architectuur Maand) will open on 1 June with a temporary public space in Schiemond, developed on a previously closed-off quay along the Maas. Under the theme 'Stadmaken met wat er al is' (‘city-making with what already exists’), this year’s edition centres around the creative reuse of existing materials, spaces and stories.

The quay, long out of public view, has been developed into a circular festival site with contributions from designers, residents and local makers. Using reused materials and inspiration drawn from the area’s identity, a new communal space has been established. Visitors are invited to explore this space throughout the month of June.

Exhibition on sustainable city-making

Located adjacent to the festival heart, the exhibition Duurzaam Ruimte Maken (Sustainable City-Making) features 27 projects that explore how urban spaces can become greener and more resilient. The showcase includes timber constructions and floating neighbourhoods. The exhibition design, a temporary brick landscape created by Studio Raito, follows the event’s circular ethos – the bricks will be reused after the exhibition closes.

Events across the city

Rotterdam Architecture Month includes more than 125 events at over 40 locations city-wide. Below are several highlights from the programme:

1 June – Opening event in the Kroonkwartier

The festival kicks off with a full-day event featuring surprise performances, open studios, a design market, workshops and guided tours. Activities are held in and around the Kroon and Schiehavenhallen. Attractions include trapeze lessons, soapbox races and live music by artists including MANOS and Le Motat.

From 1 June – Podwalk with Winy Maas

A new podwalk, narrated by architect Winy Maas, will be available via the Tramhuis app from 1 June. The route explores locations around Rotterdam that hold personal significance for Maas. A printed guidebook will follow in mid-June, available at the festival bookshop.

5–29 June – BoTu summer garden

A temporary garden will be open in Schiemond, in a hidden green area designed by J.J.P. Oud. The site will host art installations, photography exhibitions and weekly Thursday lunches in a pop-up tea garden.

6 June – Rotterdam Architecture Prize

The annual Rotterdam Architecture Prize will be awarded at the Central Library. The event recognises the city’s most notable architectural contribution of the year.

7 June – Edible ponds session

Led by ecologist Gore Tengels, this guided expedition will explore edible biodiversity in and around Rotterdam’s ponds. The event is part of the city’s exploration of water as a living and edible element of the urban environment.

14 June – Day and Night of Architecture

The programme includes talks with architects Violette Schönberger and Marjolein van Eig, as well as walking tours through transformed warehouses and new builds in the Lloydkwartier. A walking dinner in Merwe-Vierhavens (M4H) and visits to architectural landmarks such as the Van Nelle Factory and the Delftse Poort are also planned.

20 June – AFFR film screening

AFFR will host an early screening of Universal Language, a documentary described by some as a potential cult classic. The film will be shown at the festival heart ahead of its official release in Dutch cinemas.

26 June – An evening with Ma Yansong

Architect Ma Yansong of MAD Architects will appear in conversation with Aric Chen, director of Het Nieuwe Instituut. The talk will cover his design philosophy and recent collaboration on the exhibition Ma Yansong. Architecture and Emotion.

27 June – Women in architecture symposium

Panels, workshops and tours will address visibility, influence and the future of women in architecture. The event aims to promote inclusivity in the profession through representation, research and practice.

Directions to the festival heart

Schiehaven 17, Schiemond

The main location of the festival, Schiehaven 17, is located in the port-side district of Schiemond. The area is situated along the Maas and accessible via public transport, bike or car. The setting, formerly industrial, is known for its proximity to both the Lloydkwartier and M4H creative districts.