When the sun is high in the sky and the city buzzes with energy, something magical happens in Rotterdam.
The city comes alive in every color and every sound.
Music echoes from every corner of the center, bodies move rhythmically to the pulse of the brass bands, and feathers, glitter, and flags from all over the world fill the streets.
That’s when it’s time for the Summer carnaval in Rotterdam (Zomercarnaval).
A world city, a celebration for everyone
Rotterdam is home to more than 170 nationalities — people with roots in the Caribbean, West Africa, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and far beyond.
What connects them?
A city where everyone can find their place — and a celebration where everyone feels seen.
Zomercarnaval began as a small community initiative: a way to showcase the culture of Curaçao and other Caribbean islands. But it grew rapidly. Today, it is one of Europe’s largest parades, featuring over 25 floats and a vibrant mix of participants and visitors.
.
From street festival to cultural heritage
In 2023, something remarkable happened:
Zomercarnaval was officially recognized by UNESCO, added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural
Heritage of Humanity. A global recognition of what Rotterdam has long known — this is not just an event. It’s a living story.
A story about migration, culture, expression, and freedom. A story that connects generations and keeps traditions alive. A story rewritten every year by the people who make it possible.
From the costume designers who spend months crafting handmade creations, to the band members who feel every beat in their bones. From the visitors lifting their children onto their shoulders,to the dancers who outdo themselves with every performance.
A global stage for Rotterdam UNESCO’s recognition offers a new opportunity:
to share Rotterdam’s story with the world as a city unafraid of change, a city that creates space for expression, identity, and connection.
This event embodies what makes Rotterdam unique:
a vibrant city where differences don’t divide us but bring us together.
Here, we celebrate what unites us. Here, we show the richness of who we are.
It’s no coincidence that Zomercarnaval is one of Rotterdam’s six iconic events with international significance.
Its spirit is felt in the rhythm of the parade, seen in the faces of the crowd, and heard in the drums that echo deep into the night.
Want to know more?
Visit the website via https://www.zomercarnaval.org/
Related brand partners
Media library for this story
No items found