Autumn In Amsterdam

Summer may be officially over, but that doesn’t mean the party has to end. After the success of events across the continent this summer, we’re feeling pretty inspired at DT and are looking forward to fitting in some serious dance action before chilling-out over Christmas. So, where’s the best place to be this autumn? Amsterdam has an incredible line-up of events, including the monumental five-night festival that is the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), so all eyes are on this city to deliver.

Hearts will be racing and toes tapping at the thought of spending time in the liberal city of Amsterdam; here’s our insight into the best upcoming events in the Dutch capital.

Amsterdam Dance Event, 16-20th October, Keizersgracht

One of the most important events in the international electronic music scene, the Amsterdam Dance Event is the biggest club festival in the world and also a conference for fans, artists and producers to reflect on the scene and be critical about moving forward. This substantial event is across five nights, where over 2,000 international artists will perform at 100 of the city’s top clubs. Organised by The Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, its 17th year has the potential to be the most exciting yet, with an extensive and gifted line-up hitting the stage.

As always, the variety of acts is key at ADE, with a mixture of up-and-coming musicians as well as fully-fledged stars. Catch the artistry of Dimitri, Robert Diet, The Upbeats, Terry Hunter, Kid Sublime, Buraka Som Sistema, Frank Lamboy, Headhunterz and MC Divine to pick out just a few talented acts. It’s a fantastic chance to meet like-minded fans, have the time of your life and party all night.

Awakenings Festival, 16-20th October, Gashouder, Westergasfabriek

A full blown institution in the Netherlands, Awakenings Festival has become one of the country’s most popular and biggest techno events, meaning it has its pick of the best genre artists from around the world. The festival makes a special return to ADE this October at the Gashouder, Westergasfabriek with a stellar line-up, featuring Luciano and Carl Craig (16th), Carl Cox (17th), Richie Hawtin (18th), Adam Beyer (19th) and Fritz Kalkbrenner (20th), all giving it their best across five themed nights.

This is perfect if you love DJs playing through the night and into the early hours, as the first four nights run until at least 8am, so you’re sure to get your money’s worth. Tickets are selling fast, so if you can’t make it, think about heading out for the Awakenings organisation’s special event on 28th December, featuring only female techno artists, such as Daniela Haverbeck and Fatima Hajji.

Defected ADE Special, 19th October, Air

Once again Defected is organizing a special event at the Amsterdam Dance Event and we’re pleased to report this years line-up is insane! Last years edition was one of the highlights of our trip and with this years roster looking equally fearsome we have high hopes that this party may even top last years! With artists such as MK, Nick Curly, Sonny Fodera, Sandy Rivera and Copyright all confirmed for the bill we know how we’ll be spending our Friday night in the Netherlands!

We Love Amsterdam ADE Special, 19th October, Air

Having celebrated their 15th year curating their world famous sunday parties at Space in Ibiza, We Love continue their AIR residency with a special ADE event. Taking over the whole club along with friends and collaborators Snowbombing and Future Disco they have put together an all-star lineup including Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Duke Dumont, PBR Streetgang, Cajmere, Greg Wilson and Benoit & Sergio for a night not to be missed in the Dutch capital.

Hed Kandi ADE Special, 19th October, Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ

Unable to resist the force of the ADE Festival, music brand Hed Kandi, known for their unique style of house music, return to Amsterdam with a bang.  Sets from Phil Faversham, John Jones, Carl Hanaghan, DJ Eibhlin and Sam Cannon are sure to be energetic and get everyone jumping on the dance floor. You can also expect live performers creating a magical atmosphere with costumes, professional dancing and honestly, who knows what else! If you’re lucky enough to attend, prepare to find your standard of comparison for all future events.

The venue deserves a special mention; the Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ, or ‘Music Building on the IJ’, is an award-winning concert hall right on the picturesque IJ lake and only a short walk from the centre of Amsterdam. It’s a great acoustic location that adds substantial weight to the evening, and with the chance to party with top DJs by the water, what could possibly stop you?

Op de Valrave Festival, 23rd November, Westerunie and Westerliefde

Hosted by MC Complicated, the Op de Valrave Festival is all about unleashing your inner self and freeing your extreme alter ego – whatever you decide that is! Ever wanted to go clubbing dressed as Batman, or hang out by the bar conducting your order with a lion’s tail? This fancy dress event is bound to be wild, revealing and uplifting, which compliments house music perfectly. The line-up will be as equally diverse as the audience, with a 12 hour bonanza from house and techno DJs including Marc Romboy, Stephan Bodzin, DOSEM, Solee and Gabriel Ananda. As the first anniversary event for Valrave, expect a real celebration.