Rotterdam — After last year’s scorching Zomercarnaval, where temperatures soared and dancers pushed through hours of choreography under the blazing sun, Newsdam stepped in with a simple but essential gesture: 120 liters of drinking water for the dancers and volunteers of Sambaschool Lita Morena. Even the founder of Newsdam rolled up his sleeves and joined the volunteer team.
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This year, the partnership goes a step further. Newsdam will once again support the group with drinking water — but this time, founder Erik van Loon won’t just be behind the scenes. He will be dancing samba on the streets of Rotterdam, joining one of the most vibrant and beloved groups of the entire parade.
Who Is Lita Morena? The Samba Queen of Rotterdam
The sambaschool takes its name from its founder, Lita Morena, a Brazilian powerhouse who has become a cultural icon within the Rotterdam Zomercarnaval. Known affectionately as the Samba Queen of Rotterdam, Morena has spent decades bringing authentic Brazilian carnival culture to the Netherlands.
In 2023, she entered the Zomercarnaval with her own independent group for the first time — and immediately became the second Best Choreographer. In 2025, her group returned with 100 dancers and volunteers, dazzling the jury and the crowd, and winning the prestigious Best Choreography Zomercarnaval 2025 award.
Her style is unmistakable: bold colours, high‑energy movement, and a deep respect for the Afro‑Brazilian traditions that shape samba.
A Samba Tribute to the FIFA World Cup
For the 2026 edition, Lita Morena’s group is preparing something spectacular: a full FIFA World Cup tribute, celebrating the tournament hosted this year by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Expect football‑themed costumes, rhythmic choreography inspired by stadium energy, and a carnival interpretation of the world’s most popular sport. For football lovers — and samba lovers — it promises to be one of the most eccentric and joyful groups of the entire parade.
Why You Should Support Them Too
The annual Rotterdam Summercarnaval attracts nearly one million visitors each year and is one of Rotterdam’s most colourful, diverse and internationally recognised festivals. Groups like Lita Morena keep the tradition alive — but they rely heavily on sponsors, volunteers and community support.
If you love samba, football, or simply want to help keep Rotterdam’s most exuberant festival thriving, consider becoming a sponsor. You can find all options here: www.sambaschoollitamorena.nl/en/become-a-sponsor/