Zomercarnaval rocks the city of Rotterdam every year for five exuberant days in late July. It's motto says: "Inspired by diversity," and its vibrations largely mimic the vibes of carnivals happening throughout Latin America and the Dutch Caribbean, namely Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Some also find Zomercarnaval similar to Karneval der Kulturen, held in Berlin, or Notting Hill Carnival, hosted by London. No wonder nearly a million of revelers come yearly to enjoy the spirit the Dutch style.
Rotterdam Carnival Zomercarnaval Events
The fun-packed program has something for everyone. Live performances day and night, more than 25 bands marching through the streets, and the pulsating energy of carnival, everything is celebrating summer. Saturday street parade is the centerpiece of the holiday and features brass bands, countless dancers, and the newly chosen. Afterward, you can also enjoy two live stage concerts at the Coolsingel and the Churchillplein. Other pivotal celebrations within the Carnival include the Zomercarnaval Beach Party at the Stand aan de Maas on Thursday and the spectacular Battle of Drums on Friday.
Royalty Election
In 2024, for the first time in the event's history, candidates will have the opportunity to compete for the title of King of the Summer Carnival. Organizers say this change will place a greater emphasis on inclusivity and diversity within the pageant. The Royalty Election will start the festive program of the Summer Carnival. During the Summer Carnival Street Parade, the chosen Summer Carnival Queen and King will be prominently displayed.
Parade
The Summer Carnival street parade is a huge spectacle, featuring beautiful costumes with headdresses, a party with lots of tropical music, swinging dance, and singing. Each parade group has its own theme, which will be represented by their costume, dancing, and other attributes and will immerse the public into the Caribbean atmosphere. More than 2,500 dancers, 25 carnival groups, 25 music groups, and DJs will go down the 5 km long route in the city center of Rotterdam.
Festival Market
At the Mercado (or festival market), visitors can sample cuisine from around the world, from Surinamese grilled chicken to Antillean satay ku batata and Hindustani bara, or buy vivid jewelry or the latest gadgets. This is an opportunity to enjoy all the delicious food and the latest trends that the Mercado can offer.
Carnival History
The first carnival event was established in Utrecht in 1982 and 1983. During those years. a number of Antillean carnival associations from Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Amsterdam organized a parade across the Jaarbeursplein. In 1984, Carnival was held in Rotterdam for the first time and became an important part of Rotterdam with the goal of bringing different cultures together through tropical carnival expressions similar to those in the Antilles.
