Clubbing, music and nightlife in the Amsterdam Area
Amsterdam is known worldwide for its incredible music scene and nightlife options. But you’ll find plenty more opportunities to go out in a satellite around the Dutch capital. Here’s our list of the best venues to discover concerts, gigs and parties in the Amsterdam Area.
Patronaat, Haarlem
Located in the former gymnasium of a Catholic boys' school, Patronaat has established itself as one of the leading pop and rock stages in the Netherlands. The agenda encompasses broad musical styles from rising hip-hop stars and jazz nights to singer-songwriter, country, punk and alternative rock groups. The programming also spills over into external locations such as Caprera, Rapa Nui, Woodstock69, Slachthuis and the Philharmonie in Haarlem.
CLUB3, Haarlem
Situated in a newly-renovated wing of Patronaat, CLUB3 breathes new life into Haarlem’s nightlife offering. The diverse music programme is put together by up-and-coming DJs and guest curators from the local scene, showcasing techno, house and experimental (electronic) music styles. CLUB3 consists of three spaces, including a central dance floor, a more intimate room - known as the Boiler - for immersive DJ sets and a balcony for exhibitions.
PHIL, Haarlem
PHIL Haarlem is one of the Netherlands’ finest concert hall known for its outstanding acoustics, high ceilings, and striking interiors. The agenda primarily features a changing lineup of classical music concerts, including everything from chamber music to organ recitals. But you’ll also find many pop concerts from internationally renowned touring acts.
Locael, Haarlem
Club and restaurant Locael (formerly Vooges) in Haarlem puts on an eclectic array of events throughout the weekend. These might include monthly funk, soul and Latin parties on a Sunday afternoon or live acts and DJs playing throughout the weekend. The menu is loaded with shareable bites and cocktails – perfect for fuelling up before an evening on the dancefloor.
P60, Amstelveen
To catch everything from gigs by smaller touring bands to ABBA tribute nights, keep an eye on what’s on at P60 in Amstelveen. The concert hall boasts superb acoustics and an intimate vibe, making it an ideal spot to discover new artists and up-and-coming local talent. The venue also hosts various club nights focussing on techno, electro and indie genres.
Caprera Open-Air Theatre, Bloemendaal
Nestled in between the dunes and the forest at Bloemendaal, Caprera is a beautiful outdoor stage that’s open from March to September. This unique stage, built against a sand dune, is best known for its theatre and cabaret. Still, it frequently organises performances by local pop, rock and alternative musicians - often in partnership with Patronaat in Haarlem. Keep an eye on the calendar to experience an enchanting night under the stars.
Woodstock 69, Bloemendaal aan Zee
This iconic beach club on the sand at Bloemendaal aan Zee is known for its beachy vibes and excellent parties, attracting a colourful mix of clubbers and laid-back hippy types. The party agenda at Woodstock 69 is a force to be reckoned with, as the club regularly hosts big-name DJs (and partygoers get to dance around a bonfire!). But the chilled-out evenings with live music and barbecues are an equally big draw.
De Meester, Almere
For everything from dubstep and hip-hop nights to live karaoke or gigs by singer-songwriters, heavy metal, punk, and hardcore bands, look no further than Almere’s biggest pop and rock stage, De Meester. The venue doubles as a breeding ground for local musical talent through the regular Support Your Local Heroes evenings and talent shows such as Flavourland and Popsport.
Corneel, Lelystad
With a capacity of 400 visitors, Corneel is the largest music venue in the province of Flevoland and occupies a unique position in the region’s nightlife scene. The varied programming encompasses many concerts and events yearly, from DJ nights and gigs to tribute nights by touring bands. The stage also plays a crucial role in developing regional musical talent.
De Vorstin, Hilversum
De Vorstin is the home base for pop and rock music in Hilversum. The venue puts on many concerts and gigs, from stopovers by established touring bands to gigs by emerging talent. All musical genres are catered to - you’re just as likely to see a Guus Meeuwis gig on the agenda as you are an Ethiopian 60s funk band - and the programming attracts a broad age range.
