It all started with a simple need: to create a space where stories make us human again. Inspired by the power of personal storytelling, Storytelling Rotterdam was born, a community where we don't have to perform or convince. A place where we can simply share what's truly alive within us. It's a safe haven in a world where people often give advice but rarely truly listen.

49 editions on tour and now a guest at OASE at the waterfront. We are celebrating a special milestone: the 50th edition! This is not just any evening, but a celebration of a community built on authenticity and connection. And where better to celebrate than here with us at OASE?

This will be a night full of stories, laughter, and interaction. The storytellers will share true, mythical or comedic tales. With topics as limitless as the speakers themselves, who range from enthusiasts to comedians and even national champions. There's also a surprise waiting for you!
The spontaneous amongst the audience will get a stage as well. Towards the end of the event there will be an extra spot for anyone who wishes to share a story with us.

do 25 sept | 19.15 - 21.15 | Free event | ENG | OASE’s De Ruimte

On Friday, September 26, we welcome political scientist and philosopher Lea Ypi to De Dépendance on the occasion of the Dutch translation of her latest book, Indignity. Ypi is Professor of Political Theory at the London School of Economics and was recently named one of the world’s top ten thinkers by Prospect magazine. She grew up in communist Albania and draws on her personal experience to investigate the complex relationship between freedom and democracy, the rise of populism, and the challenges of political change.

Following the international success of her memoir Free: Coming of Age at the End of History, Indignity: A Life Reimagined is a powerful call to think differently about memory, survival, and solidarity in an age of crisis. Blending philosophy with autobiographical reflection, the book offers a sweeping reimagining of Europe’s past—from the world of Ottoman aristocracy to the making of modern Greece and Albania, through war, the dawn of communism, and the global financial crisis.

This evening with Lea Ypi explores what it means to survive in an age of extremes and reveals the fragility of truth—both personal and political. Moving between present and past, archive and imagination, fact and fiction, Indignity raises difficult questions: What do we really know about the people closest to us? With what moral authority do we judge the acts of previous generations? And in light of today’s political conflicts and the crisis of liberal democracy: what can history teach us about our present predicament?

Fri 26 Sept | 20.00 - 21.45 (drinks from 19.30) | €7 or €12.50 | Language: English | OASE's De Ruimte

Dutch below!
El Vermufest: the vibrant coastal town on the Spanish Maas.

This is the festival that catapults you straight to Spain, no passport required. On Saturday, September 27, we’re already at the third edition of El Vermufest, a day full of flavor and atmosphere.

We’ll bring back the usual favorites: the finest vermouth (of course), food that tastes like a sunny holiday, and DJs to keep you dancing all day long. But this time we’ve got some surprises in store! An extended day program packed with workshops and activities, and an evening program that goes on till late.

This edition is all about connection. We’ve invited a bunch of special guests who’ll make the day unforgettable with interactive installations, surprising workshops and activities. The perfect ingredients to meet people who might just become your new best friends. Because everything tastes better together.

Sat Sept 27 | 15:00 – 02:00 | Language no problem | OASE’s Strandtent

Hosted at a one-of-a-kind spot: a former shipyard on the Maas. Discover pre-loved & upcycled fashion, design, furniture, vinyl, plus unique art & accessories from local creatives.

After treasure hunting, kick back on our terrace with sunshine, live music and views over the Maas – cappuccino, lunch or cerveza in hand.

In 2025 the market takes place on Sunday March 30, Monday April 21 (with extra plants!), and from May to October every last Sunday of the month.

Sunday Sept 28 | 11:00 – 17:00 | €3 at the door | OASE

Everyone has that one piece of clothing that’s more than just clothes. An old coat from your grandpa, a shirt that helped you come out, a dress you brought from your home country, or jeans you’ve patched ten times because you’ll never let them go.

For this edition of Storytelling Night, part of Dutch Sustainable Fashion Week, we invite Rotterdammers to share the personal story behind their favorite garment. What memories, family history, emotions or activism do you carry with it?

In a world where fast fashion feels like the norm, we pause for clothes that last. Pieces tied to identity, heritage, spirituality or community. Think of someone sharing the symbolism of Indigenous attire, clothing as ritual or cultural resistance. Or simply a sweater that reminds you of your first love. On OASE’s stage we bring these stories together. We celebrate what clothing can mean in a sustainable world – where fashion is about identity, roots and depth.

Storytelling Night is a recurring program that gives personal stories a stage. Because stories are the fastest way from head to heart.


Thu Oct 9 | 20:00 – 22:00 | Free ticket | English | OASE’s Kantine