Weekly tips Rotterdam: Monday 15 to Sunday 22 December 2025

Monday 15 December

Amsterdamned II

Pathé De Kuip

Amsterdam is plagued by a series of murders. Detective Tara Lee discovers that these crimes are linked to a dark past from the 1980s. Together with former inspector Eric Visser, she hunts down the killer who is once again terrorizing the city. This story is a sequel to the popular 1988 film.

Location: Cor Kieboomplein 501 (Google Maps)
Info: www.pathe.nl

Candlelight evening in historic Delfshaven

Candle Night is an atmospheric Christmas celebration in a historic setting with traditional Christmas carols, hot chocolate, and Christmas wreaths. The event brings people together for singing, the Christmas story, and socializing, allowing participants to experience the warmth of the community and the Christmas spirit.

Location: Aelbrechtskolk 20 (Google Maps)
Info: www.pelgrimvaderskerk.nl

Rotterdam Ice Rink

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam its thirteenth season as the city’s premier winter destination. With a 400-meter rink, covered Funbaan, and atmospheric Winterplein, it offers a pleasant place for everyone to skate together, enjoy music, and participate in winter activities. Tickets are available online, and the rink is open almost daily.

Location: Toepad 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

The Political Year-End Show 2025

Oude Luxor Theater

In 2025, Wilders, like Trump internationally, caused political turmoil by bringing down the cabinet, leading to new elections. The Political Year-End Show discusses the most important events and achievements of the year with journalists, while key players prepare for Christmas dinner.

Location: Kruiskade 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

Tuesday 16 December

Amsterdamned II

Pathé De Kuip

Amsterdam is plagued by a series of murders. Detective Tara Lee discovers that these crimes are linked to a dark past from the 1980s. Together with former inspector Eric Visser, she hunts down the killer who is once again terrorizing the city. This story is a sequel to the popular 1988 film.

Location: Cor Kieboomplein 501 (Google Maps)
Info: www.pathe.nl

The Nutcracker – The classical ballet and orchestra

Nieuwe Luxor Theater

Relive the magic of Christmas with the famous ballet The Nutcracker, in which Clara and her nutcracker come to life and together battle evil mice. This classic ballet by Tchaikovsky, with its fairy-tale story and enchanting music, remains one of the most popular ballets worldwide to this day.

Location: Posthumalaan 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

DJ Premier x The Alchemist

Annabel

DJ Premier and The Alchemist, two legendary hip-hop producers, are joining musical forces for the first time during the “He’s the Preemo, I’m the Chemist World Tour.” Expect a unique live experience with iconic tracks, hypnotic beats, and sharp scratches in an energetic, standing setting organized by Rotown, BIRD, and Annabel.

Location: Schiestraat 20 (Google Maps)
Info: www.annabel.nu

Esther van der Voort

Club Haug

Esther is currently touring with her (almost sold-out) show ‘Mama is boos’ (Mama is angry) and she also regularly performs in line-up shows. But now it’s time for new things. Time to try everything. New jokes, audience interaction, fresh stories, and certainly existing material. Tonight, Esther is going in all directions, just trying things out.

Location: Boompjeskade 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.comedyclubhaug.com

Soft Loft

Vessel

Soft Loft is a Swiss collective led by Jorina Stamm, whose music celebrates the raw beauty of vulnerability and melancholy. With their EP ‘In Case You Get Lonely’ and the album ‘The Party And The Mess’, they create an irresistible indie pop world full of introspective, reverb-rich songs that connect and move listeners.

Location: The Red Ship, Wijnhaven 101 (Google Maps)
Info: www.vessel11.nl

Rotterdam Jazz Collective

Batavierhuis

The very first Batavierhuis jam session in town! Invite all your friends and enemies. After an opening set of about an hour, there will be an open jam session where musicians can participate for free. Bring your own instrument and, above all, bring your family, friends, dogs, and neighbors!

Where: Pieter de Hoochweg 108 (Google Maps)
Info: www.batavierhuis.nl

Rotterdam Ice Rink

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Saturday 29 November

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam will soon begin its thirteenth season as the city’s premier winter destination. With a 400-meter rink, covered Funbaan, and atmospheric Winterplein, it offers a pleasant place for everyone to skate together, enjoy music, and participate in winter activities. Tickets are available online, and the rink is open almost daily.

Location: Toepad 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

Iris van Herpen

Kunsthal

This fall, Kunsthal Rotterdam is dedicating HALL 2 to the groundbreaking Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen. The exhibition ‘Sculpting the Senses’ displays more than a hundred iconic creations that showcase her avant-garde style and innovative techniques in haute couture.

Location: Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341 (Google Maps)
Info: www.kunsthal.nl

Wednesday 17 December

Beethoven’s Ninth with Sinfonia Rotterdam

De Doelen

Sinfonia Rotterdam and the Octopus Symphonic Choir, conducted by Conrad van Alphen, bring Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony to life, with the impressive highlight being the ‘Ode to Joy’. The evening begins with Maessen’s Christmas Carol Suite and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, offering an evening full of passion, connection, and accessible classical music.

Location: Schouwburgplein 50 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dedoelen.nl

The Nutcracker – The classical ballet and orchestra

Nieuwe Luxor Theater

Relive the magic of Christmas with the famous ballet The Nutcracker, in which Clara and her nutcracker come to life and together battle evil mice. This classic ballet by Tchaikovsky, with its fairy-tale story and enchanting music, remains one of the most popular ballets worldwide to this day.

Location: Posthumalaan 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

Amsterdamned II

Pathé De Kuip

Amsterdam is plagued by a series of murders. Detective Tara Lee discovers that these crimes are linked to a dark past from the 1980s. Together with former inspector Eric Visser, she hunts down the killer who is once again terrorizing the city. This story is a sequel to the popular 1988 film.

Location: Cor Kieboomplein 501 (Google Maps)
Info: www.pathe.nl

Raoul Heertje & Marie Koet

Club Haug

On December 17, Marie Koet, twice awarded comedy talent by De Volkskrant newspaper, and Raoul Heertje will perform together at Comedyclub Haug. Although they have little in common, they complement each other well and promise unpredictable shows.

Location: Boompjeskade 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.comedyclubhaug.com

Who’s afraid of Sylvana? (Dutch language)

Theater Zuidplein

“Who’s Afraid of Sylvana” by Raymi Sambo Maakt is a powerful performance in which three versions of Sylvana Simons grapple with power, media, and racism. With a mix of debates, scenes, and music, the performance explores the price of visibility and the difficult struggle against structural racism, which earned praise for its powerful and emotional approach.

Location: Gooilandsingel 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.theaterzuidplein.nl

The Dance Palace

Cafe Dox

Until 17 December

The Dance Palace is a fun dance party for seniors and swing enthusiasts, with music ranging from oldies to rock ‘n’ roll, designed to promote joie de vivre and vitality. On December 17, there will be a special Rainbow Edition celebrating diversity and welcoming everyone to dance together and combat loneliness.

Location: Antoine Platekade 9 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

Babyconcert (0+)

Studio de Bakerij

Sunday 14 & Wednesday 17 December – 10.00

Introduce your baby to classical music in a relaxed way, played by professional musicians performing baroque, tango, and world music. It’s no problem if babies aren’t quiet or need feeding, making it an ideal opportunity for parents and children to enjoy live music together.

Location: Bergweg 283 (Google Maps)
Info: www.studiodebakkerij.nl

Winters at Blijdorp Zoo

Blijdorp Zoo

Until Sunday 18 January 2026

Winters Blijdorp offers magical winter moments for young and old alike. Enjoy skating 0on the Rabobank ice rink, festive refreshments on the Winter Square, an enchanting Winter Wonder Forest, the polar bear trail with North Pole stories, and an atmospheric light trail during six winter evenings at the zoo.

Location: Blijdorplaan 8 (Google Maps)
Info: www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl

Thursday 18 December

Art Walks Live

De Doelen

Discover De Doelen’s unique collection of post-war reconstruction art during Art Walk Live, guided by a Rotterdam art lover. Enjoy new and existing works, get an exclusive look behind the scenes and on the roof, and hear the stories behind the art and the building. The tour starts at the Doelen Art gallery at Schouwburgplein 57.

Location: Schouwburgplein 57 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dedoelen.nl

Josephine Odhil

Vessel 11

Josephine Odhil and Marta Arpini present an evening filled with art pop, indie, and poetic melodies, alternating between dreamy soundscapes and intimate songs. Their different styles create a unique blend of melancholy and energy, full of musical depth and imagination. A unique live experience that takes you on a journey of stories and emotions.

Location: The Red Ship, Wijnhaven 101 (Google Maps)
Info: www.vessel11.nl

Thursday Night Detour

Join the free Thursday Night Detour and discover architecture, design, or digital culture in surprising ways. Every Thursday evening, creative Omleiders take you on a special detour through the museum, where the guest and program are always a surprise. Be inspired during this unique experience!

Location: Museumpark 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.nieuweinstituut.nl

Winters at Blijdorp Zoo

Blijdorp Zoo

Until Sunday 18 January 2026

Winters Blijdorp offers magical winter moments for young and old alike. Enjoy skating 0on the Rabobank ice rink, festive refreshments on the Winter Square, an enchanting Winter Wonder Forest, the polar bear trail with North Pole stories, and an atmospheric light trail during six winter evenings at the zoo.

Location: Blijdorplaan 8 (Google Maps)
Info: www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl

Fay Claassen & Band

Depot museum Van Beuningen

Boijmans Extended

until 31 December 

Boijmans Extended brings art to life in unexpected places outside the museum, such as streets and studios. In this way, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen invites everyone to experience art in a new, active way.

Location: Museumpark 24 (Google Maps)
Info: www.boijmans.nl

Toppers Christmas Party Of The Year 2025

In December 2025, the Toppers will celebrate their 20th anniversary with spectacular Sing-a-Long Christmas shows in Rotterdam Ahoy, complete with an atmospheric winter wonderland. Enjoy sing-along Christmas classics, festive energy, and a magical Christmas atmosphere. Come dressed in CHRISTMAS RED & SNOWY WHITE and experience the ultimate Christmas party!

Where: Ahoy Rotterdam – Ahoyweg 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ahoy.nl

Ellen ten Damme

Oude Luxor Theater

Until 18 December

In this Christmas show, Ellen ten Damme guides you as Night Miss through a passionate requiem full of tropical sounds and winter songs. Be surprised by a visual and musical spectacle with her Magpie Orchestra & Marvelous Dancers, where warmth, cold, and unforgettable images come together. A s

Location: Kruiskade 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

Iris van Herpen

Kunsthal

This fall, Kunsthal Rotterdam is dedicating HALL 2 to the groundbreaking Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen. The exhibition ‘Sculpting the Senses’ displays more than a hundred iconic creations that showcase her avant-garde style and innovative techniques in haute couture.

Location: Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341 (Google Maps)
Info: www.kunsthal.nl

Q&K (XMAS XL!) W/ GWEN, SUNNY & NICKY

Chris Turner

Comedy Club Haug

Join Chris Turner for “Spontaneous,” a unique comedy show that combines freestyle rap, stand-up, and improvisation, fueled by audience participation. Known for his work with Cirque Du Soleil and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Chris delivers unpredictable and hilarious performances without a script and without limits.

Location: Boompjeskade 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.comedyclubhaug.com

ACT II – The Best Supper

Come to the second of four acts, presented by Dalal Mitwally, Goretti Pombo, oji nauli, Lon Luna, and Gamze Öztürk, residents of the Hamburger Community. Immerse yourself in another world and stay for dinner—don’t miss this unique experience! Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the event runs from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Reserve your free ticket now, as seating for dinner is limited.

Location: Roodkapje – Delftseplein 39 (Google Maps)
Info: www.roodkapje.org

Italian wine evenings on the ss Rotterdam

Thursday 18 December

Experience La Dolce Vita every Thursday in December aboard the ss Rotterdam with Italian wines and antipasti in the Ocean Wine Bar. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Italy and the atmospheric views of Rotterdam’s illuminated skyline. Let yourself be transported to the heart of Italy during these sophisticated theme nights.

Location: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ssrotterdam.nl

Friday 19 December

Iris van Herpen

Kunsthal

This fall, Kunsthal Rotterdam is dedicating HALL 2 to the groundbreaking Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen. The exhibition ‘Sculpting the Senses’ displays more than a hundred iconic creations that showcase her avant-garde style and innovative techniques in haute couture.

Location: Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341 (Google Maps)
Info: www.kunsthal.nl

Superstraat

Wereldmuseum

Until 26 January 2026

Go on an adventure with Neighbors’ Day master of ceremonies Freddy and discover Super Street, where you can help out in Aga’s shop, learn to dance for the summer carnival, and support Winston’s Party Kitchen at world festivals. An exciting hands-on exhibition full of activities for curious children!

Location: Willemskade 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.rotterdam.wereldmuseum.nl

Depot museum Van Beuningen

Boijmans Extended

until 31 December 

Boijmans Extended brings art to life in unexpected places outside the museum, such as streets and studios. In this way, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen invites everyone to experience art in a new, active way.

Location: Museumpark 24 (Google Maps)
Info: www.boijmans.nl

Lying-down concert with Jeroen van Veen

Two intimate concerts will take place in the atmospheric Laurenskerk in Rotterdam: first a Christmas edition featuring Ludovico Einaudi’s most beautiful minimalist piano compositions, followed by Simeon ten Holt’s hypnotic Canto Ostinato, performed on grand piano and transept organ. Both concerts offer a serene musical experience full of relaxation and reflection.

Address: Laurenskerk – Grotekerkplein 15 (Google Maps)        
Info & tickets: www.laurenskerk.nl

Best of Stand-Up Early Show

Comedy Club Haug

At Comedy Club Haug, you can enjoy a fun evening of stand-up comedy with top comedians in a pleasant atmosphere. The show lasts approximately 75 minutes without intermission, and drinks can be easily ordered via a QR code. Check the website for the current lineup and reserve your tickets in advance!

Location: Boompjeskade 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.comedyclubhaug.com

Bach and Mozart – Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra

The Christmas concert brings light to the dark winter season with Mozart’s radiant Haffner Symphony, Bach’s Third Orchestral Suite, and his Concerto for Oboe d’Amore, performed by soloist Karel Schoofs. A musical celebration full of warmth and splendor for the season.

Location: Schouwburgplein 50 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dedoelen.nl

The Glass House of Resistance

Friday 19 December

The Glass House of Resistance is a four-day event from December 19 to 22 at Schouwburgplein, where stories, music, and solidarity come together for DR Congo, Palestine, and Sudan. With lectures, discussions, and music, they draw attention to oppression and raise money for emergency aid.

Location: Schouwburgplein (Google Maps)
Info: www.rotterdampalestinacoalitie.nl

Peter Pannekoek New Year’s Eve Show

Friday 19 to Sunday 28 December 2025

Peter Pannekoek is back with his New Year’s Eve show in 2025, treating Dutch television viewers to his sharp and humorous take on the past year. In addition to the TV broadcast, the show can also be seen live in the theater.

Peter is one of the top Dutch comedians and further expanded his success with his show DNA, which played to sold-out theaters for two and a half years. For this show, he won the prestigious Poelifinario in 2023, the award for the most impressive comedy program of the season.

Location: Nieuwe Luxor Theater – Posthumalaan 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

Toppers Christmas Party Of The Year 2025

In December 2025, the Toppers will celebrate their 20th anniversary with spectacular Sing-a-Long Christmas shows in Rotterdam Ahoy, complete with an atmospheric winter wonderland. Enjoy sing-along Christmas classics, festive energy, and a magical Christmas atmosphere. Come dressed in CHRISTMAS RED & SNOWY WHITE and experience the ultimate Christmas party!

Where: Ahoy Rotterdam – Ahoyweg 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ahoy.nl

Rotterdam Ice Rink

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Saturday 29 November

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam will soon begin its thirteenth season as the city’s premier winter destination. With a 400-meter rink, covered Funbaan, and atmospheric Winterplein, it offers a pleasant place for everyone to skate together, enjoy music, and participate in winter activities. Tickets are available online, and the rink is open almost daily.

Location: Toepad 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

Winters at Blijdorp Zoo

Blijdorp Zoo

Friday 12 December 2025 to Sunday 18 January 2026

Winters Blijdorp offers magical winter moments for young and old alike. Enjoy skating 0on the Rabobank ice rink, festive refreshments on the Winter Square, an enchanting Winter Wonder Forest, the polar bear trail with North Pole stories, and an atmospheric light trail during six winter evenings at the zoo.

Location: Blijdorplaan 8 (Google Maps)
Info: www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl

LIVE MUSIC CAPTAINS LOUNGE

ss Rotterdam

Friday 18 & Saturday 19 December

Every Friday and Saturday evening, live music brings jazz, soul, and classics to life in the atmospheric Captains Lounge of the ss Rotterdam. Enjoy a pleasant evening with friends, family, or colleagues aboard this iconic ship and celebrate the weekend in Rotterdam style.

Location: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ssrotterdam.nl

Saturday 20 December

The Gi-Ga Gantic Christmas Show!

Ahoy

Studio 100, Efteling, and Toppers Kids are teaming up to present a magical Christmas party featuring famous Studio 100 stars, enchanting Efteling melodies, and a junior version of the Toppers. A festive show full of music, spectacle, and fun for the whole family.

Location: Ahoyweg 10 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ahoy.nl

Peter Pannekoek New Year’s Eve Show

Friday 19 to Sunday 28 December 2025

Peter Pannekoek is back with his New Year’s Eve show in 2025, treating Dutch television viewers to his sharp and humorous take on the past year. In addition to the TV broadcast, the show can also be seen live in the theater.

Peter is one of the top Dutch comedians and further expanded his success with his show DNA, which played to sold-out theaters for two and a half years. For this show, he won the prestigious Poelifinario in 2023, the award for the most impressive comedy program of the season.

Location: Nieuwe Luxor Theater – Posthumalaan 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

LIVE MUSIC CAPTAINS LOUNGE

ss Rotterdam

Friday 18 & Saturday 19 December

Every Friday and Saturday evening, live music brings jazz, soul, and classics to life in the atmospheric Captains Lounge of the ss Rotterdam. Enjoy a pleasant evening with friends, family, or colleagues aboard this iconic ship and celebrate the weekend in Rotterdam style.

Location: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ssrotterdam.nl

Christmas on Park Avenue

Saturday 20 December

Visit Parklaan during the Christmas holidays and explore the museum collection with a special treasure hunt for the whole family. Pick up the treasure hunt at the desk and experience Christmas in a unique and interactive way. Afterwards, you can enjoy a hot chocolate in the cozy museum café. A festive activity you won’t want to miss!

Location: Belasting & Douane Museum – Parklaan 14-16 (Google Maps)
Info: www.bdmuseum.nl

Rotterdam Ice Rink

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Saturday 29 November

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam will soon begin its thirteenth season as the city’s premier winter destination. With a 400-meter rink, covered Funbaan, and atmospheric Winterplein, it offers a pleasant place for everyone to skate together, enjoy music, and participate in winter activities. Tickets are available online, and the rink is open almost daily.

Location: Toepad 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

Vintage on the Maas Winter Market

Oase

Saturday 13 December

Visit the Vintage aan de Maas Winter Market in Rotterdam for a cozy winter market full of unique vintage finds, handmade gifts, and art. Enjoy warm drinks, fun activities such as a Happiness Walk and bobsled race, and discover special products from Rotterdam makers.

Location: Schiehaven 15-A (Google Maps)
Info: www.oaserotterdam.nl

Nosagenda christmas fair

The Nosagenda Christmas Fair at the Nieuwe Instituut Rotterdam is the perfect Christmas market for unique, handmade gifts and supporting local entrepreneurs.

In addition to delicious food, you can enjoy live music and a warm Christmas atmosphere. Admission is free, so come along for a fun day full of Christmas cheer and special finds.

Address: Nieuwe Instituut – Museumpark 25 (Google Maps)
Info & tickets: www.nosagenda.com

Best of Stand-Up Early Show

Comedy Club Haug

At Comedy Club Haug, you can enjoy the best comedy talent in a great atmosphere, for an evening full of guaranteed laughs—solo or with friends! The lineup changes regularly, so check the website for the most up-to-date information. The show lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes without intermission.

Location: Boompjeskade 11 (Google Maps)
Info: www.comedyclubhaug.com

LIVE MUSIC CAPTAINS LOUNGE

ss Rotterdam

Every Friday and Saturday evening, live music brings jazz, soul, and classics to life in the atmospheric Captains Lounge of the ss Rotterdam. Enjoy a pleasant evening with friends, family, or colleagues aboard this iconic ship and celebrate the weekend in Rotterdam style.

Location: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25 (Google Maps)
Info: www.ssrotterdam.nl

LET IT HAPPEN! – DJ’S ST. PAUL’S INDIE EUPHORIA

DJ St. Paul, known as the “indie disco king of the Netherlands” and a regular at festivals such as Best Kept Secret, Pukkelpop, and Lowlands, will transform his festival sets into an energetic club night at Rotown on Saturday, December 13. Expect a mix of indie, rave, synthpop, and post-punk in an atmospheric and euphoric set.

Location: Nieuwe Binnenweg 19 (Google Maps)
Info: www.rotown.nl

Rotterdam Rave

Rotterdam Rave returns with its annual Winter Special in December 2025, this time at the iconic Maassilo. Doors open at 2 p.m., and visitors can look forward to an impressive lineup of well-known DJs.

Location: Maassilo – Maashaven Zuidzijde 1-2 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dance.maassilo.com

BlackBeach

On December 13, BlackBeach and Gespuys will bring their unique electronic sound to springtij GROUNDS during the EB&VLOED Tour.

BlackBeach mixes raw rave with cinematic synths, while Gespuys highlights the absurdity of everyday life with poetic Dutch lyrics and hypnotic beats. An evening full of energetic and danceable electronic music!

Location: Grounds – Pieter de Hoochweg 125 (Google Maps)
Info: www.grounds.nu

Sunday 14 December

Iris van Herpen

Kunsthal

This fall, Kunsthal Rotterdam is dedicating HALL 2 to the groundbreaking Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen. The exhibition ‘Sculpting the Senses’ displays more than a hundred iconic creations that showcase her avant-garde style and innovative techniques in haute couture.

Location: Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341 (Google Maps)
Info: www.kunsthal.nl

The Maker Market

Friday 12 to Sunday 14 December

The Maker Market will be coming to the Groot Handelsgebouw in Rotterdam from December 12 to 14, featuring live music, handmade products, workshops, and delicacies. It’s the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit and find unique gifts from young, international makers.

Location: Groot Handelsgebouw (Google Maps)
Info: www.themakermarket.nl

Rotterdam Ice Rink

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam

Saturday 29 November

Schaatsbaan Rotterdam will soon begin its thirteenth season as the city’s premier winter destination. With a 400-meter rink, covered Funbaan, and atmospheric Winterplein, it offers a pleasant place for everyone to skate together, enjoy music, and participate in winter activities. Tickets are available online, and the rink is open almost daily.

Location: Toepad 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl

Winters at Blijdorp Zoo

Blijdorp Zoo

Friday 12 December 2025 to Sunday 18 January 2026

Winters Blijdorp offers magical winter moments for young and old alike. Enjoy skating 0on the Rabobank ice rink, festive refreshments on the Winter Square, an enchanting Winter Wonder Forest, the polar bear trail with North Pole stories, and an atmospheric light trail during six winter evenings at the zoo.

Location: Blijdorplaan 8 (Google Maps)
Info: www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl

Babyconcert (0+)

Studio de Bakerij

Introduce your baby to classical music in a relaxed way, played by professional musicians performing baroque, tango, and world music. It’s no problem if babies aren’t quiet or need feeding, making it an ideal opportunity for parents and children to enjoy live music together.

Location: Bergweg 283 (Google Maps)
Info: www.studiodebakkerij.nl

A Urban Christmas Tale

A! Urban Christmas Tale is the annual Christmas musical by House of Urban Arts, created by and with young talents from Rotterdam South. With dance, rap, theater, and more, the performance brings a raw, modern version of the Christmas story full of urban vibes and real emotions. A unique, creative show full of talent and Rotterdam Christmas spirit!

Location: Gooilandsingel 95 (Google Maps)
Info: www.theaterzuidplein.nl

Portlantis light tours

Sail past illuminated terminals and impressive container ships during a special winter boat trip, accompanied by a guide and with winter snacks on board for an atmospheric and sparkling experience.

Location: Pr. Máximaweg 301 (Google Maps)
Info: www.portofrotterdam.com

Waluw Vintage Market XXL XMas Edition

The Xmas Edition of the Waluw Vintage Market on Sunday, December 14, is the perfect outing in the run-up to the holidays. This XXL edition spreads across the iconic Feestzaal for mid-century furniture and design, while fashion, vinyl, jewelry, and curiosities can be found in the Willem Burger Hal and the Jurriaanse Kwartier. A stylish market full of unique finds with a view of the bustling city.

Location: De Doelen – Schouwburgplein 50 (Google Maps)
Info: www.waluw.nl

Swan Market

Swan Market Rotterdam is a free creative lifestyle event on the Binnenrotte, where you will find handmade and vintage products, trendy accessories, food trucks, a terrace, bar, DJ, and a cozy atmosphere.

Location: Binnenrotte 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.swanmarket.nl

West Side Story

Nieuwe Luxor Theater

Until 14 December

West Side Story tells the heartbreaking story of the forbidden love between Tony and Maria, set against the backdrop of a gang war between the Jets and the Sharks in New York. This compelling musical, based on Romeo and Juliet, combines rousing music, impressive dance, and a live orchestra with iconic songs such as “Maria” and “Tonight.”

Location: Posthumalaan 1 (Google Maps)
Info: www.luxortheater.nl

The Jazz Room | 5PM show

The Jazz Room in Rotterdam offers an evening of live jazz music in the style of a 1920s New Orleans bar. Enjoy soulful performances featuring ragtime, brass instruments, blues, and spontaneous improvisations while ordering a cocktail at the bar.

It’s an intimate, chic atmosphere where the rich jazz tradition comes to life and you’re taken on a musical journey full of passion, freedom, and creativity.

Location: Maassilo – Maashaven Zuidzijde 1-2 (Google Maps)
Info: www.dance.maassilo.com

MATT BERNINGER

Matt Berninger, lead singer of The National, released his solo album ‘Get Sunk’ in 2025, an intimate and layered album produced by Sean O’Brien. The album was created with the help of musical friends in a basement studio in California and will be performed live during the Intimate Trio Performance.

Location: Rotown – Nieuwe Binnenweg 19 (Google Maps)
Info: www.rotown.nl