Battle of Drums returns with anniversary in Rotterdam Ahoy

The popular Battle of Drums are back at this year's Summer Carnival under the banner Battle of Drums Anniversary. The event will take place on Friday 26 July at Rotterdam Ahoy and is free to enter. For the first time since 2019, after being interrupted by corona and replaced by the Warming Up, the event is back on the programme.

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The Battle of Drums - a beloved drum competition where three Brass Bands play their favourite composition and the best one wins the Golden Drum - has never lost popularity in its years of absence. On 26 July, the spectacular Battle of Drums, in a different format, will take place in Rotterdam Ahoy. The event has achieved cult status within communities, with it being seen not only as a competition but also as a celebration of culture and togetherness.

Musical programme

The Battle of Drums Anniversary promises to be an evening of music and energy celebrating the history of the Battle of Drums. Three brass bands that have won the competition in the past will give their best in a showcase. In addition to the showcase, the evening will be framed musically. Who will do this will be announced later. There will also be a Mercado with terraces outside the Rotterdam Ahoy.

"The Battle of Drums has always been one of the highlights of the Summer Carnival. We are delighted that the Battle celebration can return this year, after years of absence and thanks to the cooperation of Rotterdam Ahoy. Battle of Drums is and will remain a much-loved programme component of the Summer Carnival and we are hugely looking forward to bringing the energy and enthusiasm of the brass bands and the audience together again. After next edition, we will explore with stakeholders whether the Battle of Drums can return in regular form." said Eva van der Vegt, director Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival.

Sign up for free

Admission to the Battle of Drums Anniversary is free. However, visitors should register in advance. After registering, they will receive a QR code that gives access to Rotterdam Ahoy. For more information and registration, visit the Rotterdam Unlimited Summer Carnival website.