Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is just around the corner, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of dance music magic from October 16th – 20th. The urban landscape will pulse with excitement from dawn to dusk, offering more events than you can fathom. Having experienced it for the last two years, I can assure you it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences globally. Expect an abundance of fun and minimal sleep, leaving you eager for more as the event wraps up.
Whether you’re a DJs, a music manager, a social media influencer, or a promoter, there’s a wealth of knowledge to soak up at ADE. After sunset, this stunning city morphs into one massive party, showcasing world-class artists at every venue. To help you navigate the excitement, we’ve compiled a list of our top must-attend events this year, a mere glimpse into the vast array available.
Prepare to dance and learn.
Wednesday, October 16th
The festival commences with style, featuring events stretching into the early hours. Highlights include the official opening shows such as Nick Verstand’s stunning visual experience, Eefje de Visser’s unique performance at the Van Gogh Museum, and Greetje Bijma x Oceanic at Bimhuis. Meanwhile, Metropole Orkest’s tribute to J Dilla and Lavinia Meijer x Nikki Hock at Zuiderkerk enhance the evening.
Prepare for electrifying sets as Oliver Heldens takes over Melkweg. MEROW & Friends alongside Mesto & Friends unleash their STMPD sounds at Chin Chin Club and Jimmy Woo, respectively. And don’t miss Parookaville’s ADE Special.
Tomorrowland kicks off their first Afterlife night featuring Tale of Us and Anyma. Unreal x FYM joins forces with 999999999 and I Hate Models, while Vintage Culture takes the stage at Het Sieraad and Armada welcomes Drumcode at their HQ.
In terms of conference highlights, Timbaland and Martin Garrix will engage in a conversation. Techno sensation Sara Landry will share insights into life as an artist, and Tomorrowland will reflect on its two-decade journey in the industry.
Thursday, October 17th
On the second day, Amsterdam’s festivities ramp up. Armada hosts A State Of Trance at their headquarters, alongside Dolby Atmos House, showcasing their advanced sound system. 1001 Tracklists presents the Top 100 Producers.
bitbird celebrates its 10-year anniversary with San Holo. Meanwhile, the STMPD RCRDS label night at AFAS Live features Martin Garrix, Dillon Francis, and Julian Jordan. Tchami and Habstrakt will team up at Chicago Social Club.
Hugel presents: Make The Girls Dance at Jimmy Woo. Monstercat x Blacklist unites for a bass-centric night at Melkweg featuring Crankdat, Kayzo, Whipped Cream, and others. Additionally, Protocol showcases their label night at Escape Club.
Matroda & Friends will be partying at Chin Chin club. Yellow Claw & €URO TRA$H: take the stage at Bitterzoet for a 4-hour set. Lastly, Gorgon City will Enter The Realm at Het Sieraad.
From the conference angle, Artist Branding: Learn how to build your brand at Mappa. You can also attend From Niche to Next Level at Felix Mertis and delve into Creative Synergy with Indira Paganotto & Joseph Capriati at De Brakke Grond. To ensure you’re ahead of the game, attend Creating Faster Than You Can Overthink at Mappa.
Friday, October 18th
The weekend kicks off with a bang, featuring MADDIX’s all-day rave at H7 Warehouse. Furthermore, Awakenings Upclose showcases Four Tet at Gashouder, while Breakfast Club offers an ADE Triathlon event at Pllek.
KNTXT Turbo Club invites BONZAI take over Theater Amsterdam, with IMANU presenting De__Verte at Melkweg. Also, Tomorrowland presents Our Story 2024 at Ziggo Dome, and LP Giobbi celebrates her Album Release Party at W Amsterdam.
Jonas Blue & Friends is set at AIR, while KNTXT Turbo Club presents KNTXT KONNECTED, featuring Charlotte de Witte as headliner. Awakenings ADE Adriatique will present X at Gashouder, and Fedde Le Grand lays down his Darklight Sessions at Club NYX.
On the conference side, Soundcloud continues their educational sessions, and Kölsch discusses his career with Dave Clarke. The Armada University offers sessions from Lilly Palmer & Karl Oliver. Finally, a notable conference event features a conversation with Amelie Lens x Charlotte de Witte at Felix Mertis.
Saturday, October 19th
If you’re still standing, Saturday promises to be a thrilling experience. The highlight of the week is the AMF, boasting an extraordinary lineup including Martin Garrix, Tiësto, Tita Lau, Wade, and more.
Meanwhile, Amelie Lens presents Exhale at Ziggo Dome; additional Joseph Capriati presents Metamorfosi at Gashouder. Intercell x 999999999 will feature at Warehouse Elementenstraat.
Revealed will host their label night at Q-Factory, while Seth Hills & Friends will take over Club John Doe. Additionally, Sam Divine will showcase DVINE Sounds at Chicago Social Club, and Brooks will perform at Oliva.
If you’re up for an adventure, consider the highly anticipated Boat Party featuring Amaeo x Discotexas x Marginalia on the Eivissa Event Ship. Additionally, Hospitality will present an unforgettable UK Drum & Bass night at Melkweg.
The conference activity may slow down on Saturday, primarily due to the festivities, yet ample events persist! Attend Music Rights on Tour with Laura van Dam, or join the Femme Bass Mafia session addressing Mental Health and Nightlife. Don’t miss The Future of Radio at Felix Mertis, focusing on immersive live visuals.
Sunday, October 20th
To conclude this exhilarating five-day event, prepare for a semi-relaxed Sunday, depending on your weekend adventures. Enjoy the party atmosphere as festivities kick off early Sunday morning, with gatherings starting as the sun rises.
Join Lost Barcelona for their Showcase, and Breakfast Club for an ADE Triathlon: RADION Sunday. The Offline Club at HEARTH holds a special event, while Verknipt will present their BIG Closing at AFAS Live.
Sekora hosts Chill Sessions at Andaz Amsterdam, while Awakenings ADE Sunday brings the closing event at Gashouder. Speedy J presents STOOR Live at Paradiso, and Sunday at W Amsterdam features a very Special Secret Guest.
Finally, be sure to check out Justin Mylo as he presents ON/OFF at Oliva.
Which ADE events are vying for your attention this year?
