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What to Do in Rotterdam with a Preschooler?

You want to do something fun with your preschooler in Rotterdam—an original and unique outing that you’ll both enjoy. Looking for ideas, you turn to Google and search for “What to do in Rotterdam with preschoolers?”.

wat te doen in Rotterdam met kleuter

Hidden Rotterdam Gem

Then we might have just the tip you need. Most people know the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra for its classical concerts at De Doelen, but did you know that we also offer multiple children’s performances each season for kids aged 3 to 12? It’s a hidden Rotterdam gem and perfect for preschoolers.

Our children’s performances have been widely praised and are created in collaboration with incredible artists such as Pepijn Gunneweg (known from Zappelin), Hanna van Vliet (known from SpangaS), and Toon Tellegen (award-winning children’s book author).

Of course, we’re excited about our children’s performances, but you don’t have to take our word for it. A parent recently shared: “I went with my daughters (4 and 6 years old), and they were completely captivated by the music, the orchestra, the animation, and the actors. Seeing all the emotions on their faces was fantastic. Even though it was for ages 4 and up, I also thoroughly enjoyed it—it was incredibly impressive in terms of timing, storyline, animation, and execution. Chapeau! It’s already on our calendar for September.”

Read more reactions from other visitors at the bottom of this page.

5 Reasons Why This is the Ultimate Children’s Outing

  1. It’s Cultural
    Of course, taking your preschooler to an indoor play paradise or the cinema on a rainy afternoon is fun. But sometimes, you also want to spark their creativity and introduce them to cultural experiences.
     
  2. It’s Rainproof
    Is it pouring outside? No worries. Our performances take place in beautiful theater halls: the Grote Zaal and Jurriaanse Zaal at De Doelen. Just stepping into the hall is already an impressive experience for your child—and the show hasn’t even started yet.
     
  3. It’s for the Whole Family
    You enjoy it when your little one enjoys it, but it’s an added bonus when the activity is also fun for parents. Our children’s performances offer moments of laughter and wonder for everyone. Just take a look at the reviews at the bottom of the page.
     
  4. It’s Affordable
    Outings with preschoolers can be expensive, especially when extra costs like gift shops or additional attractions pile up. A ticket for your child costs just €12.50, while adult tickets range from €20 to €31, depending on the hall. Plus, it includes an extensive pre-show program before the performance begins.
     
  5. It’s a Complete Experience
    When you attend one of our children’s performances, you get an all-in experience. One hour before the show, we offer an extensive pre-show program for performances in our Grote Zaal, featuring face painting, a VR experience, and more. Check out the full pre-show program below.


 

What Others Say About Our Performances

“We had such a wonderful time with our four children. The beautiful music, humor, and theater made it an unforgettable afternoon for all of us. Something for everyone. Thank you once again!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“It was an excellent and enjoyable performance. Everything was explained so clearly that even young listeners, like my 3-year-old granddaughter, could follow along easily. She was immediately captivated and drawn into the story. The music enhanced the tension and lightness of the narrative, and my granddaughter really felt that. Very well done.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A fantastic way to make classical music fun and engaging for the little ones. We attended in December as well and will definitely come again. It also helps that the prices are reasonable and affordable.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“The best children’s program I have ever experienced.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We loved the performance and the pre-show activities. What a great opportunity for young children to discover music, instruments, and the orchestra.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We had a wonderful time! Last year was our first time, and my daughter loved it so much that she wanted to make it a ‘new birthday tradition.’ And so we have! The story, with visuals on the screen, is incredibly original, beautiful, and funny. The music is stunning. The pre-show program was lively but so much fun, with fantastic face painting. In short, a highlight of our holiday! Thank you, and see you next year.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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