Summer Carnival

The Summer Carnaval (Dutch: Zomercarnaval) is an annual event in the Dutch city of Rotterdam. It mimics the Carnaval of Latin America and the Dutch Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao). The Summer Carnival offers people an opportunity to celebrate Carnival in such a manner. The Dutch city of Arnhem used to organize Rio on the Rhine, which attracted more than 150,000 visitors, while the Rotterdam event attracts nearly a million visitors yearly. Summer Carnaval is often compared to Karneval der Kulturen (Berlin) and Notting Hill Carnival (London). In 2001 the Carnival was honoured with the prestigious Dutch Prince Claus Award, for their work in promoting the positive contribution of Antillean culture to Dutch society.