PHOTO BY BAS CZERWINSKI / ROTTERDAM FESTIVALS ©
Rotterdam’s multicultural makeup is a vital part of its lifeblood, with some 170 nationalities calling it home. A cacophonous ‘battle of drums’ and colourful street parade are highlights of Rotterdam Unlimited, which includes the Zomercarnaval, a vibrant Caribbean summer carnival celebration in late July.
Tours of normally off-limits industrial areas, as well as nautical displays and sea shanties, are part of early September’s fascinating Wereldhavendagen (World Port Days). Festival-goers don retro get-ups such as sailor outfits for the spin-off de Nacht van de Kaap (Night of the Cape), held on one crazy Wereldhavendagen night in Katendrecht, Rotterdam’s former red-light quarter.
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