It's almost time for Summer Carnival again! Everyone is eager to join this summer party in a South American way. But what's on the agenda?
Since 1984, Rotterdam has been the proud home of Summer Carnival in the Netherlands. This year there will be plenty of carnival again on July 26 and 27. We have listed the best activities during Summer Carnival for you.
You may have heard it, but due to additional requirements from the municipality, there will be no Lightning Parade and Warming Up on Friday evening this year. Therefore, in 2024 only the street parade, the Mercado and the Rueda de Casino will take place. Still enough reason for a party!
The parade will take place for the fortieth time on July 27. Because the other events of the summer carnival are not taking place, the organization ensures that the parade is extra festive and colourful!
Expect more than 2,500 dancers, 25 carnival groups and countless floats that will turn the Rotterdam city centre upside down! The Summer Carnival Street Parade marches through the centre of Rotterdam in a 2.5 km procession with energetic dancers from all kinds of backgrounds, cultures and nationalities. Dressed in the most spectacular costumes with only one mission: to make everyone dance! The Summer Carnival Street Parade is the largest Caribbean street party in the Netherlands; you want to be there!
The street parade will take place on Saturday, July 27, 2024 and starts at 12 noon on the Blaak. The parade ends at approximately 7:00 PM. Curious about the route? You can find it via this link.
The Mercado festival market on July 27 is the world cuisine of Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival. Spread throughout the city are many different cuisines from as many corners of the world, from Surinamese, Hindustani, Chinese and Antillean. In addition to the food stands, there are also stalls with merchandising, clothing and trinkets from various cultures. The Mercado can be found on Saturday, July 27, 2024 on Eendrachtsplein, Schouwburgplein and Coolsingel.
The grand Rueda de Casino is once again part of Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival. Everyone can and may participate on July 27, you do not have to register in advance and it is completely free.
Rueda de Casino is a group dance in which at least three couples dance salsa or son montuno in a circle and pass partners on command. The dance originates from Cuba. And the great thing is: everyone can participate!