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Free parties during ADE 2024

ADE welcomes some of the world’s biggest DJs to Amsterdam, and that is often reflected in the ticket prices. But luckily for people with a slightly smaller wallet, some amazing parties and events don’t have an entrance fee. We’ve selected the best such parties for you.

Opening Bash with Todd Terry

© TK Photography
Image from Thirawut Kluebkaeo (Chee)

What better way than to kick off the Amsterdam Dance Event with one of house music's legends? Look no further than the free opening night with Todd Terry at Vic's Bar, right opposite Central Station. A full evening of Chicago house awaits you in the bar of the Victoria Hotel. Check out the programming for the rest of the week, as Roog, Tough Love and Michael Gray are also behind the decks. Free admission.

Opening Bash with Todd Terry | Wednesday 16 October, 19:00 - 01:00 | Vic's Bar, Damrak 1-5, Amsterdam | house

Dirtybird Brunch with Soul Clap

As far as we are concerned, the weekend cannot start early enough. And yes, during the week of ADE, the weekend starts on Wednesday for all intents and purposes, but still. For the coolest views, delicious food ánd the best beats, welcome to skylounge Luminair on Friday afternoon. DJs from the renowned Dirtybird label will provide the musical entertainment. RSVP needed.

Dirtybird Brunch | Friday 18 October, 13:00 - 18:00 | Luminair, Oosterdokstraat 4 | house/techhouse

Boogie House afterparty

art'otel invites the up-and-coming Amsterdam-based collective Boogie House for an ADE Afterparty. Boogie House delivers unforgettable experiences through music and art curation, from boat to rooftop, from church to basement. This time, the Friends in Fashion Networking Party will bring together creatives from across the fashion industry in ARCA Bar, including designers, photographers, stylists, and models. Make sure to RSVP for free entry.

Boogie House | Thursday 17 October, 21:30 - 01:00 | ARCA Bar, Prins Hendrikkade 33 | house/disco

Goody Music Radio Showcase

An energetic evening filled with house and techno at the atmospheric Blend XL. During ADE, this spacious bar creates a large dance floor where everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. It is a place where diversity is celebrated in an atmosphere of respect and openness. Expect a funky mix of music in a unique setting with graffiti on the walls and a glamorous but relaxed ambience. Enjoy your cocktail and dance into the night.

Goody Music Radio Showcase | Wednesday 16 October, 22:00 - 05:00 | Blend XL, Reguliersdwarsstraat 44 | house/techno

PBN x Marimba x Ongodbytries: fundraiser for Congo

This event is not only a musical experience but also a benefit to draw attention to the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While enjoying Afrobeat and house music, you will also contribute to a good cause. The lineup consists of international and local artists who create a unique vibe, including DIORA (AZ), Eauxby (NL), and Morgan (AU).

PBN x Marimba x Ongodbytries: fundraiser for Congo | Wednesday, 16 October, 19:00 - 02:00 | Pacific by Night, Polonceaukade 23 | afrobeat/house

Tale of Bus

For lovers of vinyl and old-school records, Tale of Bus is one of the highlights during ADE 2024. This mobile record shop and travelling sound system parks at Volkshotel, offering visitors the chance to browse through endless bins of vinyl in search of hidden musical treasures. It is the place to discover new music and surround yourself with like-minded music lovers. While you shop vinyl, the Tale of Bus plays live sets, and you can enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Tale of Bus | Wednesday 16 to Friday 18 October, 13:00 - 20:00 | Werkplaats, Wibautstraat 150

iCulture

VIC's Bar, located on the Damrak, welcomes everyone for an evening of disco and house during ADE. iCulture is an approachable event where you can relax during the day and dance to international DJ sets at night. With a friendly atmosphere and a diverse range of music, this is a perfect place to enjoy everything ADE offers with friends. The party starts at 19:00 and continues into the late hours.

iCulture | Friday 18 October, 19:00 - 01:00 | Vic's Bar, Damrak 1-5 | disco/house

Apichat Pakwan x Gigstarter

Take a musical journey to Southeast Asia with Apichat Pakwan, who brings the warmth and energy of tropical beats to Amsterdam during ADE. This free event at the Vrij Paleis combines music, art and culture in an intimate setting. Explore the gallery, browse merchandise and enjoy the unique combination of Outernational music and Tropical Bass. This event offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect as a warm-up for a later night, or to end your ADE day.

Apichat Pakwan x Gigstarter | Friday 18 October, 20:45 - 22:00 | Vrij Paleis, Paleisstraat 107 | deep house/house

In-store DJ Session

Enter the world of music, style and art during a special in-store DJ session at Betty B. Tattoo & Barber. Throughout the day, DJ Anthity and Pulziv. will set the tone with an energetic B2B set, while visitors can enjoy tattoo, piercing and grooming services. This free event brings music and fashion together in a relaxed atmosphere and offers a 20% discount on all services. It is a perfect mix of beats and body art.

In-store DJ Session | Saturday 19 October, 12:00 - 22:00 | Betty B. Tattoo & Barber | breakbeat/deep house/house

Nous ‘Klaer Audio

Image from Felicia Savelberg

Rotterdam-based label Nous ‘Klaer Audio takes you on a musical journey. Expect a deep, atmospheric sound in a unique environment that breathes the underground techno scene. The event offers the perfect opportunity to discover new music and enjoy artists representing the label's growing influence.

Nous ‘Klaer Audio | Saturday 19 October, 15:00 - 03:00 | Borisov, Rigakade 10 | techno

That Garage Sounds - 10th anniversary

The 10th anniversary of That Garage Sound will be celebrated during ADE with a free party at Kopstootbar. What once started as a local party has become a staple of Amsterdam's UK Garage scene. This year, the organisers bring an impressive line-up of both emerging and established names within the underground garage music spectrum, such as Ben Mono (DE), DJ Crisps (NL) and Michael Pieterse (NL). From deep bass to fast beats, this party is a must for garage lovers. Expect an energetic night full of good vibes in an intimate setting.

That Garage Sounds - 10 Year Anniversary | Saturday 19 October, 22:00 - 05:00 | Kopstootbar, Marnixstraat 429 | bass/house

DJ Basics: workshop for beginners

Curious about DJing but don't know where to start? During this hands-on workshop, you'll get the chance to learn the basics of DJing techniques, such as beatmatching and setting up equipment. Guided by experienced DJs from Kriterion, this free workshop offers hands-on experience with professional tools. It is an accessible way to lay a solid foundation and start your DJ journey confidently.

DJ Basics: workshop for beginners | Sunday 20 October, 12:30 - 14:30 | Filmtheater Kriterion, Roetersstraat 170

Kadinsky Sessions Closing Party

After an intense week of events, Kadinsky Sessions will close ADE with a banging party. Expect a line-up of local and international DJs, including talented artists from Argentina, who will perform the best progressive house. With a unique blend of progressive beats and Latin influences, this promises to be a closing party of note. It is the perfect way to close ADE 2024, full of dancing, music, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Kadinsky Sessions Closing Party | Sunday 20 October, 18:00 - 01:00 | Kadinsky Café, Zoutsteeg 9-11 | progressive house