Rotterdam turns on the lights

Rotterdam Turns On the Light

In the darkest months of the year, Rotterdam chooses to bring light — not only in a literal sense, but above all, in a symbolic one.
On Thursday, November 13, 2025, we turn on the light together — a symbol of connection, warmth, and pride. Because in Rotterdam, we believe that light creates connection, and connection creates light.

What began as a joint brainstorm at Rotterdam Central Station has grown into a powerful campaign that mirrors the city itself: diverse, energetic, and always on the move.
The video “Rotterdam Turns On the Light” is the result of this collaboration — a mosaic of stories, people, and places that together reflect the soul of the city.

In it, Rotterdammers come together — entrepreneurs, athletes, scientists, artists, students, and residents — to put their city in the spotlight.
With over 40 Rotterdam-based brands and organizations, we work together to put the city on the map, both locally and internationally.
We highlight iconic companies, inspiring Make it Happenaars, unique initiatives, and true “city warmers” — people and organizations who make a difference.

That’s what being Rotterdams is all about: the power of collaboration, of lifting each other up, of showing pride without pretense.
That’s bold, forward and culture.

When you shine a light on these stories, you create connection. And that connection? It keeps bringing new light — again and again.

Six Beacons, One City

Six themes form the red thread running through the film:
Connectivity | Sports | Festivals | Port | Health & Science | Arts & Culture.

Each theme tells its own story, yet together they illuminate Rotterdam as one.
The video doesn’t just show images — it captures a feeling: a city that never stands still.
A community that, even in winter, is guided by hope, energy, and pride.

Rotterdam Turn On The Lights

The video premiered on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Stationsplein, during the Rotterdam Turn On The Lights event.
At that moment, the winter lights of Rotterdam Central Station, the Groot Handelsgebouw, and the Weena were festively switched on — marking the start of the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks.

For the first time, the entire Rotterdam Central District was literally illuminated.
Everyone was invited to join the countdown and raise a glass to a warm, radiant winter.

A Collective Movement

All members of the Rotterdam. Make It Happen. brand alliance shared the video simultaneously on November 13, spreading the message that light connects.
We also invited everyone to turn on their own lights — at the office, by a public artwork, or simply on their bike ride home.
Because every spark of light contributes to a brighter city.

Together, we make visible what Rotterdam has always been:
a city of doers, dreamers, and connectors.
A city that shines.
A city that says:
Rotterdam. Make It Happen.