The flag parade organised by the Stichting Vlaggenparade Rotterdam is an outdoor museum that exhibits 230 flags side by side on the Boompjesboulevard along the Nieuwe Maas, between the De Boeg monument and the foot of the Erasmus Bridge, one of the busiest and most scenic locations in Rotterdam.
There are 193 national flags to welcome the 193 nationalities who live in or are visiting the city or harbour, just as they are represented in the United Nations. There is a flag for everyone who lives in, works in or visits Rotterdam. The remaining flagpoles are reserved for City of Rotterdam flags. The flag parade is made possible with financial support of the Rotterdam city council, contributions from the founding members, sponsors and representatives from a charity foundation.
The flags are illuminated in the evening and at night, which is an amazing sight and completely unique in the world. Theme flags are flown during festivals and other regional, national or international events.
Photos: Gari Koolen
