In May 2026, Rotterdam will be buzzing with a variety of exhibitions, markets, and events, including the Rotterdam Surf Open, the hip-hop festival at Maassilo, the Rotterdam Roof Days, and the anniversary edition of the Roparun. From music and culture to sports and urban innovation, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Koningskermis
Friday 17 April to Tuesday 5 May
From April 17 through May 5, 2026, the annual Koningskermis will take place at Schiehaven in Rotterdam. With over 60 attractions—ranging from thrilling rides to classic family and children’s rides—there’s fun for all ages. There will also be carnival games, food stalls, and sweet treats to create a festive atmosphere.
The Koningskermis is a beloved tradition and offers entertainment for families, young people, and groups of friends. Come enjoy colorful lights, music, and the unmistakable fair atmosphere!
Location: Lloyd Multiplein – Schiehaven 13 (Google Maps)
Info: www.kermisrotterdam.nl
Circusstad Festival
Wednesday 29 April to Sunday 3 May
From April 29 to May 3, the free Circusstad Festival will take place on Schouwburgplein in Rotterdam, featuring international circus performers and workshops. Visitors can enjoy shows such as Kurt Demey’s Tembo inside a life-size elephant and the versatile acts of the trio Tridiculous. For adults, there’s the exciting Late Night Cabaret, hosted by Harvey Cobb and featuring special guests.
Location: Schouwburgplein (Google Maps)
Info: www.circusstad.nl
Bevrijdingsfestival Zuid-Holland (Rotterdam)
Location: Het Park (by the Euromast) – (Google Maps)
More information: www.bevrijdingsfestivalzh.nl
The South Holland Liberation Festival at Het (Euromast) Park in Rotterdam celebrates freedom since World War II on May 5 and draws attention to the lack of freedom around the world. The festival features music, art, theater, a food court, children’s activities, and an in-depth program centered on the theme “Passing on Freedom.”
Het Dikste Café Aan De Haven
Saturday 9 May
On Saturday, May 9, Rotterdam Ahoy will host the second edition of Het Dikste Café Aan De Haven, a party night featuring the biggest Dutch-language hits and plenty of fun. Whether you’re a laid-back guest or a real party animal, this event promises to be an unforgettable night. Put on your best outfit, bring your friends, and join the celebration!
Location: Ahoy – Ahoyweg 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ahoy.nl
Rotterdam Surf Open
Saturday 9 May
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, RiF010 will host the third edition of the Rotterdam Surf Open, the largest surfing event in the Netherlands, featuring top international surfers competing for the title of Best Surfer. This year, the event will be combined with a Surf Festival featuring live music, DJs, a surf and food market, and plenty of fun.
Location: RiF010 – Steiger 9 (Google Maps)
Info: www.rif010.nl
Festival Trek
Thursday 7 to Sunday 10 May
The Netherlands’ largest traveling festival kicks off the Dutch food festival season in Rotterdam, transforming city parks into open-air restaurants featuring live music, theater, and cultural performances. The event spotlights local talent and offers a vibrant mix of international cuisine and diverse entertainment for all ages.
Location: Vroesenpark (Google Maps)
Info: www.festival-trek.nl
Rotterdam Hip-Hop Festival
Sunday 10 May
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, the first edition of the Rotterdam Hip Hop Festival will take place at Maassilo, featuring top international acts such as Redman, M.O.P., and Lloyd Banks. The festival connects Rotterdam with the global hip-hop scene and offers fans from the Netherlands and abroad a unique musical experience in an industrial setting.
Location: Maassilo – Maashaven Zuidzijde 1-2 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dance.maassilo.com
Opening of the Beach Season in Hoek van
Holland
Thursday 14 May
The Hoek van Holland Beach Season Opening is an annual fair featuring a children’s carnival, various activities organized by local cultural associations, and live performances at the beach pavilions on Ascension Day. The event, organized by the Rotterdam Beach Foundation and Kroko’s Events, takes place from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on the River Side/Sea Side in Hoek van Holland.
Location: Hoek van Holland (Rotterdam Beach) – Stationsweg 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.rotterdam.info
New Skool Rules
Friday 22 to Saturday 24 May
New Skool Rules is the largest international conference and festival for urban music in Rotterdam, featuring three days of seminars, concerts, networking sessions, and after-parties. The event brings together professionals from the urban music industry from around the world to exchange knowledge, ideas, and artistic concepts.
Location: De Doelen – Schouwburgplein 50 (Google Maps)
Info: www.newskoolrules.com
Roparun
Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May
In 2026, the 35th anniversary edition of the Roparun will take place from May 23 to 25. This non-stop relay race covers over 500 kilometers to Rotterdam. The event is not just about sports, but above all about making a difference together, with proceeds going toward palliative care for people with cancer.
Location: Various locations
Info: www.roparun.nl
Rotterdam Roof Days
Saturday 30 May to Sunday 7 June
The Rotterdam Roof Days offer a unique perspective on the city by allowing visitors to walk across 12 rooftops in the Schiekadeblok, connected via the Walk The Block skywalk. This event showcases how rooftops contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and more vibrant city and provides a glimpse into Rotterdam’s rapid transformation and greening.
Location: Various locations in Rotterdam
Info: www.rotterdamsedakendagen.nl
Toffler Festival
Saturday 30 May
Experience the best house and techno music at the Toffler Festival, where renowned national and international artists showcase their talents every year. For house and techno enthusiasts, this is the ultimate festival to enjoy.
Location: Roel Langerakpark (Google Maps)
Info: www.tofflerfestival.nl
