AI-Generated Summary
Placemaking Europe Week 2024 was held in Rotterdam, Netherlands from September 24 to 27. Organised by Placemaking Europe, the annual festival convened over 700 placemakers, urbanists, city officials, and community leaders from more than 80 countries, making it the largest edition to date. The event focused on sharing best practices, fostering cross-border collaboration, and showcasing innovative local initiatives through workshops, keynotes, site visits, and interactive activities. Participants explored four major themes central to placemaking and Rotterdam’s urban development: creating lasting places, climate adaptation, living with water, and inclusive urban prosperity. Rotterdam’s dynamic identity as Europe’s largest seaport and its history of collective rebuilding offered a compelling setting for deep discussions on sustainable, inclusive city-making. The home base was Keilepand in the Merwe-Vierhavens district, with off-site workshops highlighting the practical work of local placemakers. Each session encouraged creative exchanges and hands-on learning, reinforcing placemaking’s role in addressing urban challenges like climate change, social inclusion, and economic development. Placemaking Europe Week 2024 exemplified the city’s commitment to empowering communities and influencing policy for better urban futures.