Luuk Van Dijk and Get Closer Raise the Standard for ADE Pop-Up Events

Luuk Van Dijk hosted an unforgettable, community-driven event that put the focus back on music. It was completely free and full of surprises.

During a week filled with events at the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), many gatherings are overshadowed by hype rather than genuine music appreciation. However, Luuk Van Dijk’s pop-up event under the banner of Get Closer served as a refreshing reminder of ADE’s true purpose. Completely free and devoid of extravagant decorations, this event centered entirely on music and community, creating a memorable experience for all attendees.

Announced on social media and Luuk’s WhatsApp community just weeks in advance, the event initially lacked a lineup, generating excitement solely through the promise of surprise guests and Luuk Van Dijk’s rising status in the house music scene.

As the date drew closer, excitement grew. When the lineup was finally revealed, featuring artists like Archie Hamilton, Paige Tomlinson, Benjamin Berg b2b D Stone, Gaskin, Matisa, and Mees Mattern b2b Khun, it became evident that this would be a standout event during ADE. Hosted at a shoe store in the vibrant heart of Amsterdam, the location amplified its underground allure.

The venue, Baskèts in De Pijp, was transformed for the occasion. The store’s floor was cleared for dancing, with subtle branding from sponsors like Salomon adorning the space. However, it was clear that Get Closer prioritized music over commercialism. Upon entering, the focus was unmistakably on the music.

Despite the intimate, bare-bones setup, the energy was contagious.

The initial DJs gradually warmed up the crowd, attracting a diverse audience ranging from dedicated house enthusiasts to curious onlookers. By the time Luuk Van Dijk joined forces with Gaskin for a b2b set, the crowd was buzzing with energy.

Their set was a dynamic journey filled with expertly selected tracks. It was evident that both artists thrived on the crowd’s enthusiasm and each other’s energy. The atmosphere was electric, with attendees clapping, singing along, and fully immersing themselves in the experience. Each DJ delivered a stellar performance, making it a unique experience for everyone present. Smiles were abundant.

Thoughtful touches like complimentary gourmet pizza and an open bar enhanced the inviting ambiance, fostering a sense of belonging among attendees. It felt surreal to enjoy such a high-quality experience — featuring a lineup of ADE-caliber artists, free food, and drinks — all at no cost. This was the kind of event that epitomized the spirit of ADE, welcoming anyone there for the vibe and the music.

The crowd included well-known figures from the house scene, such as Alisha and LP Rhythm, who added to the event’s communal vibe by showing support. Their presence underscored the sense of community, especially during such a bustling week.

The sound system didn’t disappoint, either.

Even in the unconventional setting of a shoe store, the acoustics were exceptional, allowing the audience to feel every beat without compromising sound quality. The minimalist setup ultimately highlighted the music and deepened the connection among attendees.

This event became a defining moment of ADE for me. While I anticipated enjoying the lineup, the intimate atmosphere, spontaneous crowd, and rich experience set it apart from anything else that week. Luuk Van Dijk and Get Closer have clearly perfected the art of orchestrating events that harmoniously blend music, community, and inclusivity.

For those eager to catch the next pop-up, following Get Closer on Instagram for updates is a must. They regularly host events like this and have a monthly radio show.

As with this pop-up, however, don’t expect advertising or grand promotions. You just have to be there. These authentic moments feel rare in today’s larger music scene. This ADE pop-up has set a high standard, demonstrating that with the right mix of music, community, and spontaneity, you don’t need flashy elements to create something truly extraordinary.