One could go to the most high-end restaurants, but it wouldn’t match the excitement and vibrancy you get from the summer carnivals. While it’s needless to say that Rotterdam has become a popular summer break destination, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that many people come to this city to enjoy Zomercarnaval, which is basically a summer carnival in the city. So, if you want to enjoy this event while you are in Rotterdam and need the details, we are here for you!
The Brief
It is basically an annual event that takes place in Rotterdam and has been mimicked by the Carnaval of the Dutch Caribbean and Latin America. This carnival is one of the best ways for people to enjoy the summer season. Every year, around one million people come to this event, and the carnival tends to complete with Notting Hill Carnival in London and Karneval der Kulturen in Berlin.
This summer carnival has been awarded the Prince Claus Award, which is an honorary award in Dutch countries. The carnival received this award because of the positive part of the Antillean culture. The first carnival was planned on 4th August 1984, which allowed the residents of the city to enjoy the warmer climate of the city. However, now, it has turned into a multi-day event.
What Happens On The Carnival?
The street parade is one of the most attractive points of this carnival, but there is something unique about it. For instance, a week before the parade, a new queen is elected through the official Zomercarnaval Queen Electric. After the election, a beach party is hosted at the Stand aan de Maas, which is a cute little beach in the city center.
At this party, different DJs and brass bands come, along with the newly elected queen. In addition, the Battle of Drums is held on Friday evening, where multiple brass bands compete and earn a leading spot in the next day’s parade. However, the Battle of Drum’s preliminary activities are completed in the city’s Dunya Center.
As far as the street parade is concerned, it includes thousands of dancers showcasing their skills along with brass band performances. Once the parade is done, two live stage concerts happen, which include Churchillplein and Coolsingel. With all these different bands and millions of people coming from different parts of the world, Rotterdam has become a melting pot of multiple cultures.
There is a warm-up period where three brass bands from different origins come together and parade to Hofplein. On the other hand, the street parade is something you just cannot miss – that’s because the entire city closes down on the street parade day, and those boring roads are transformed into the liveliest places you’ve ever seen.
Is There Food On The Carnival?
When it comes down to summer carnivals, it’s needless to say that food is an important part and is actually a great way for the cities to boost their cuisine. Having said that, Zomercarnaval Rotterdam has the Mercado, which is basically the festival market. This market is the culinary hotspot of the festival, where visitors can enjoy dishes from all around the globe – it’s truly a diverse experience that visitors don’t get anywhere else.
The Bottom Line
It doesn’t matter if you want to see the vibrant side of the city or dance to some band’s music, Zomercarnaval is one of the best events to visit if you are visiting Rotterdam in the summer season. So, if you are planning to go and don’t know the itinerary, just call at 010 – 404 84 22. In fact, you can even book a spot in the festival market to boost your business!
