ROTTERDAM – The Zomercarnaval in Rotterdam marked its 40th anniversary this weekend with vibrant parades, cultural pride, and over 2,500 performers across 32 carnival groups, cheered on by tens of thousands of spectators. While the celebration was a powerful showcase of heritage and community, it was also marred by dozens of arrests and a violent incident in the city center.
As part of the Rotterdam Unlimited street festival, the carnival parade wound its way through the heart of the city on Saturday. With the sounds of brass bands and live music, groups rooted in Curaçao, Aruba, Suriname, Cape Verde, and Spain lit up the streets with colorful costumes and expressive performances.
“Zomercarnaval is more than a parade—it's a celebration of heritage, community, and cultural identity,” said Ryansley Haize, chairman of the Stichting Zomercarnaval Nederland.
In a first for the event, the Carnival King and Queen were siblings: Celine and Oneal Rodgers, joined by Princess Eden, representing De Havenloods Zomercarnaval. Many of the participating groups were multi-generational family associations that have been part of the event for decades.
Violent Altercation and Arrests
While the parade itself was mostly festive, the evening saw a large brawl on Coolsingel, involving around 50 individuals. One man was seriously injured and taken to hospital. Police made no arrests during the incident but had already detained nine people earlier in the day for offenses including firearm possession, public intoxication, and disorderly conduct.
In total, about 450 people were subjected to preventive searches, a precaution influenced by previous shooting incidents at the 2023 edition of the event. Authorities confiscated eight knives, pepper spray, and two firearms. Two men from Amsterdam and Rotterdam were arrested.
Cultural Significance and Bubbling Dance Reform
Despite the incidents, police described the overall atmosphere as largely peaceful. Organizers had taken extra security measures, including the cancellation of evening programs, to ensure public safety.
Culturally, the 40th edition held added meaning. Following previous controversy over a ban on the dance style bubbling, the event’s regulations were revised in consultation with anti-discrimination agency Radar.
“All restrictions on bubbling or dance in general have been removed,” said Leal van Herwaarden, one of the new artistic directors. The change was celebrated with a bubbling battle during the afterparty. The event also paid tribute to late rapper Def Rhymz, who passed away in March. His 2001 hit video Schudden was filmed at the Zomercarnaval.
Leadership Transition and Legacy
This year also marked a leadership transition, as long-time chairman Karel Willems stepped down after nearly 30 years of involvement. “It’s time for a new generation,” Willems said.
Founded in 1984 in Rotterdam—after earlier versions were held as Antillean Carnival in Utrecht—Zomercarnaval has grown into one of the largest cultural events in the Netherlands. Since 2023, it has been officially recognized as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.
