IJsvrij is a winter event in Rotterdam, with ice skating, a silent disco, Swedish food, curling competitions, music, art, kids parties and more. IJsvrij has been hailed by Lonely Planet as one of the top three most beautiful ice skating rinks in Europe.
The Dutch weather may be frightful in December and January, but that doesn't mean they're not the most wonderful months of the year! From December 14, 2019 until January 12, 2020, IJsvrij is open seven days a week from 12pm until 8pm. On weekends and during the Christmas holidays, it opens two hours earlier.
It’s a popular place to visit with families and kids, groups of friends or as a team-building event for companies and co-workers. Various deals combine the skating experience with a delicious meal. There are many fascinating things on the menu, which, interestingly, serves predominantly Swedish cuisine, as well as traditional Dutch food.
Now at a new location, Plein 1940, it’s in the heart of the Cool District, where visitors are surrounded by some of the most interesting buildings in Rotterdam such as the Markthal and the Cube Houses.
To get some inspiration, take a look at an after movie from one of the previous editions of the festival in its former location, Het Park. The festival has since moved to a brand new location, Plein 1940.
Put on your warm winter clothing and plan your visit to IJsvrij. The square, near Coolsingel and Blaak, is an ideally located venue, close to museums. For visitors arriving by public transportation, it’s easy to get there via the Beurs or Blaak metro stations.