It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Richard Opsteegh, the beloved owner of Rotterdam’s iconic gay and drag venue, Café Bonaparte. Richard passed away on Thursday evening, May 15, 2025, at the age of 40, following a series of strokes. His loss is profoundly felt within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

A Beacon of Inclusivity

Richard was more than a bar owner; he was a visionary who transformed Café Bonaparte into a sanctuary of love and acceptance. Located on the Nieuwe Binnenweg, Bonaparte became a haven for individuals of all backgrounds—gay, lesbian, straight, drag queens, and transgender people alike. Richard’s philosophy was simple yet powerful: everyone is equal, and everyone deserves a place to feel at home.

In his own words, “This pub is a reflection of me: I love love, I never argue, I don’t like fighting. I like everyone—whether you come in as a kind of gabber, a punk, or in a very neat suit. For me, everyone is just equal. With Bonaparte, I’ve created a small world as I think the whole world should be.”

Triumph Over Adversity

Richard’s journey was marked by resilience. In June 2023, a devastating fire ravaged both his home and Café Bonaparte. Despite the immense loss, Richard vowed to rebuild, driven by his commitment to the community that had come to rely on the safe space he had created. Through crowdfunding and the support of loyal patrons, Bonaparte rose from the ashes, reopening its doors in April 2024.

A Legacy of Love

Richard’s impact extended beyond the walls of Bonaparte. He was known for his unwavering optimism, his ability to see the good in people, and his dedication to fostering connections. His alter ego, Denise Bonaparte, brought joy and laughter to many, embodying the spirit of celebration and self-expression.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the indelible mark he left on our hearts. Richard taught us the importance of kindness, inclusivity, and the power of community. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Rest in peace, dear Richard. Your light will forever shine in the hearts of those you touched.

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Note: This tribute is based on the article “In memoriam: Richard Opsteegh van nachtcafé Bonaparte ging uit van het mooie in mensen” from De Havenloods.

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Exciting news! 🎥✨ We’ve compiled a special list of queer-themed movies featured at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2025. From thought-provoking documentaries to heartwarming dramas and daring indie films, there’s something for everyone in this year’s selection.

Head over to queer010.info/iffr-2025/ to check out the list and start planning your IFFR experience. Don’t forget to let us know which films you’re excited about or share your reviews!

Stay fabulous,
Team Queer010 🌈

Welcome to 2025—a year full of promise, and we’re kicking it off with big plans for Queer010.info! 🌈✨

When we launched last November, our goal was clear: to be the queer agenda for Rotterdam. But why stop there? This year, we’re going bigger, bolder, and better! By the end of 2025, we aim to be your one-stop digital hub for everything queer in this amazing city. From events and meetups 🪩 to queer-friendly restaurants 🍴, queer-owned gyms 🏋️‍♀️, safe spaces 🏳️‍🌈, and so much more—you’ll find it all right here.

Here’s what you can look forward to:
💡 An expanded calendar with even more events, updated regularly.
💡 Spotlights on local queer heroes and their businesses.
💡 Neighborhood guides to help you navigate the city as your fabulous self.
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We’d love your input to make this space even better. Have a tip, a hidden gem, or an event we should know about? Drop us a line on our contact page—we’d love to hear from you!

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s make 2025 a year of connection, celebration, and pride. 🌟

With love and solidarity,
The Queer010.info Team ❤️

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The days may be getting shorter and darker, but Rotterdam’s queer scene is here to shine bright this December! 🌈 Our agenda has just been updated, and let me tell you—it’s bursting with fabulous events you won’t want to miss. From dazzling theater performances 🎭 to thought-provoking films 🎥 and electrifying parties 🪩, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

December doesn’t have to be dull or dreary. Embrace the magic of the season, connect with the community, and let the queer spirit keep you warm all month long. ❄️💃

🎁 Got a tip or an event we missed? Don’t be shy—share it with us through the contact page. Your contributions help keep our community vibrant and informed!

✨ Dive into the agenda now, gather your crew, and make this December unforgettable!

Hello, and welcome to Queer010.info! This site is dedicated to the vibrant, diverse, and dynamic queer scene here in Rotterdam. Whether you’re new in town, visiting, or a local looking for fresh spots and happenings, Queer010 aims to be your go-to source for queer venues, events, and tips in the city.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Queer Spots: Need a cozy café or a vibrant bar to unwind? We’ve got the lowdown on local favorites, with everything from chill hangouts to dance-till-dawn spots.
• Queer Calendar: Stay up-to-date with events around town—from regular meet-ups and workshops to special events and parties.
• Irregular Updates: Keep an eye on this page! Here, we’ll share the latest on queer life in Rotterdam, from film tips and local queer art showcases to news on new venues and pop-up events.

Whether you’re here to explore the city’s queer offerings or stay informed about the latest happenings, Queer010 is here for you.