The Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks begin on Friday, December 12th with a coluorful light parade through the center of Rotterdam.
From December 12th to January 4th, Rotterdam's city centre will be filled with light, camaraderie, and coziness during the Rotterdam Warme Winter Weeks. The city centre will be transformed into an atmospheric winter wonderland with illuminated buildings, squares, and streets, and a vibrant light parade (the Rotterdam Warme Winterstoet) will kick off a heartwarming winter season.
The weeks surrounding the holidays are a time of warmth, togetherness, and conviviality. We reflect on the year, cherish beautiful moments, and look forward to the new year. Rotterdam's city centre shines brighter than ever during this time of year—with lights, ambiance, and winter cheer on every street. Get out and about, enjoy the city, and be surprised during the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks!
Starting Thursday, November 13, 2025, the city will slowly begin to glow. What traditionally begins with the switching on of the winter lights at Rotterdam Central Station, the Groot Handelsgebouw, and the Weena, will grow into a ribbon of light throughout the city centre this winter.
We're doing this not only to create an extra festive atmosphere and a cozy atmosphere, but also to enhance visibility, connectivity, and a safer feeling on the streets. With sustainable, smart, and more energy-efficient lighting, the city will literally have a greener glow this year, a glow that will remain visible for weeks after the holidays.
Rotterdam residents themselves are the inspiration for the winter programme. During the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks, entrepreneurs create an extra festive and cozy atmosphere in the city centre, while creatives brighten up the city centre with unique lighting projects.
For example, stroll through the China Lighthouse on Lijnbaan, featuring illuminated flora and fauna. Spot the giant parrot—a nod to Lijnbaan in the 1950s—and the Blue Fish on the roof of Toffler. Make a wish at the magically illuminated Wishing Tree, admire an illuminated Hofplein, which marks the contours of the future green city square during this period, and admire the illuminated shop windows, including a living window display in the former Donner building on Binnenwegplein, created by artist Sibe Kokke in collaboration with students from the Rotterdam Academy.
"With the city as a source of light and its residents as inspiration, Rotterdam will showcase its most creative and diverse side. Together, we'll turn on the lights in the darkest months of the year and celebrate what defines the city and its residents: bold, warm, innovative, and together," the organizers said.
After an impressive light parade kicking off this heartwarming winter season, numerous other fun events are planned. Keep an eye on the full programme here.
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