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Curious about what's happening in Rotterdam in February? From artistic outings to sporty dates, read here what's in store for you in Rotterdam this month.
Chinese New Year is the most important of all traditional Chinese festivals. Unlike the Western calendar, Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar rather than the solar calendar. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice on 21 December, which means the celebration takes place each year sometime between 21 January and 20 February. This year it runs from 17 February to 3 March.
To celebrate this in Rotterdam, you need to head to West-Kruiskade. This is the vibrant heart of the festivities, where beautiful lanterns light up the street and a great programme awaits you.
On 28 February, the main street celebration kicks off on and around West-Kruiskade, with a fantastic programme for young and old alike. From 12:00 to 17:00, the street is car-free and filled with cosy market stalls. Across several small stages, you can enjoy a variety of performances.
One of the highlights is the traditional awakening ceremony, during which the lion is brought to life. This ceremony symbolises prosperity. In addition, there are stilt walkers, dragon dancers and musical performances that create a lively atmosphere. There are also fun workshops for children, such as kung fu and ceramics. In short, a day full of celebration and activities for everyone!
From 29 January to 8 February, it’s time once again for the best film festival around: the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR)! During IFFR, cinemas, theatres and arthouse venues across Rotterdam open their doors to showcase a wide selection of films from all over the world. Have you already managed to get tickets for one of the dozens of films?
At the beginning of February, one of Rotterdam’s most iconic buildings is given a completely new purpose. From 6 to 8 February, the empty Central Library on Hoogstraat is transformed into a vibrant meeting place for design enthusiasts.
During OBJECT Rotterdam, more than 150 designers present their latest work here, spread across all floors of the building, which is due to undergo major renovations soon. Furniture, lighting, textiles and experimental designs come together to create an inspiring route through this striking building.
On January 31st and February 1st, 21st, and 22nd, you can once again shop for vintage goods along the Maas River. During the Kaai Markt, the Unilever building transforms into a welcoming and lively meeting place, filled with countless stalls and people. In the spacious halls, you'll find the most beautiful vintage and secondhand items, all deserving of a second life.
Are you up for a fun evening of speed dating? Then the Tortel Evening on Friday 13 February at Schaatsbaan Rotterdam might be just the thing for you. Tortelen takes a slightly different approach: instead of getting to know each other through standard questions like “What do you do for work?” or “What are your hobbies?”, you connect by taking part in playful, creative and interactive challenges together. It’s a relaxed and accessible way to discover whether there’s a spark!
From 7 to 15 February, experience top-level tennis up close. Ahoy once again plays host as the world’s best players come together to battle for the title. Expect thrilling matches, tennis clinics, meet & greets with your favourite players, shops and great food.
