Read more about this heartwarming campaign via the button.
The Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks go beyond light installations, entertainment, and art: they are about looking out for one another and celebrating creativity. During these weeks, we showcase what Rotterdam is truly known for: warmth, togetherness, and hands-on people who are committed to supporting each other.
From entrepreneurs to artists, from volunteers to residents – all these “city warmers” help make Rotterdam a little brighter and more beautiful from 12 December onwards.
Together, we create a winter full of Rotterdam-style coziness and genuine care for one another. Because for some, the festive season is not warm or carefree. That’s why we join forces to make sure everyone can enjoy a warm winter.
Get involved too and make someone happy during the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks. Curious how you can contribute? You can read more below.
This winter, the Rotterdam Challenge is organizing a heartwarming holiday gift campaign. Because the holidays aren't always warm and carefree for everyone. Together with Rotterdam businesses and residents, we want to ensure that 1,300 households in the city receive a well-filled gift.
Would you like to contribute? You can help by:
On December 17, all packages will be packed and distributed among more than twenty Rotterdam social organizations, such as Rotterdamse Douwers, Gaarkeuken, RIO, Goud van Noord, Ellys place, Stichting Jan/Wijkie, WOW, Stichting Ik Geef, , Actiegroep Oude Westen, Wijkcultuur Crooswijk, College 53, B for you, Stichting Timon, Talentz Skool/Jongerenhub HQ, Stichting Mait and others.
During the Rotterdam Warme Winter Weeks, we and deBuik Rotterdam want to make it a warm winter for everyone. From December 12th to January 4th, you can order a nice warm cup of coffee for yourself at various restaurants and cafes in the city center, or perhaps one for someone who could use a warm treat? The concept of this so-called Caffè sospeso originated in Italy. Also known as "delayed coffee." A small gesture, a big difference! See below which restaurants and cafes you can visit for a delicious warm Rotterdam cup of coffee.
Did you know that the SharEaty Foundation will be handing out delicious soup on Friday 12 December after the light parade through the city centre? This “SoepGoed” is prepared using donated surplus food that SharEaty receives, sorts and distributes daily to social food initiatives, community kitchens, playgrounds and donation points.
The proceeds from commercially sold soups (to caterers, hospitality businesses and events) are used to fund SharEaty’s social activities. Thanks to the revenue from this event, warm soup can, for instance, be donated on 17 December to an initiative of the Pauluskerk, which raises awareness for vulnerable fellow citizens living on the streets. SharEaty saves surplus food and brings people together. Read more about SharEaty.
Blooming Bakery will treat 1,000 participants to free oliebollen after the light parade. This social enterprise, founded by Ben Ambachtsheer, is committed to a future free from violence. All their treats — including these oliebollen — are prepared with care and love by clients of the support organisation FIER, survivors of violence. Under the guidance of qualified bakers and volunteers, they are given the opportunity to discover their talents and further develop themselves. Read more about Blooming Bakery.
