adOct 23, 2026, 15:30

Sky-high hotel prices, GVB working overtime and over 650,000 visitors: Amsterdam turned upside down for 30th edition of ADE

Amsterdam is currently hosting the 30th edition of the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), which is expected to draw over 650,000 visitors to more than 1,300 performances throughout the city. The influx of international guests has led to a sharp increase in local hotel prices, prompting many attendees to seek accommodation in nearby cities like Haarlem.

The Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is celebrating its 30th anniversary, once again transforming the city into a massive global stage for electronic music. With over 650,000 visitors expected from more than 150 countries, the five-day festival features 3,600 artists performing at over 1,300 events across 300 locations. The sheer scale of the event creates city-wide activity, significantly boosting local hospitality and nightlife sectors.

This surge in tourism has caused hotel prices in Amsterdam to skyrocket, with some nightly rates reaching between 350 and 450 euros. Consequently, visitors are increasingly looking for more affordable accommodations in nearby cities like Haarlem. To manage the immense crowds, the public transport operator GVB is extending metro and ferry services, while national rail services are providing additional late-night trains. Local restaurants and bars also benefit from the event, operating under extended hours granted by municipal dispensations to accommodate the influx of revelers.

Economy Culture Lifestyle Amsterdam Haarlem Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Looking for a friendly chat? Step into the yellow square at the station on Wednesday

To promote social connection, the Week of the Chat initiative is launching in Haarlem on October 14, featuring a designated yellow zone at the train station where people can meet for casual conversations. Inspired by research from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the project aims to help individuals feel happier and less lonely by encouraging social interaction and boosting confidence.

Pepper spray at the end of ADE party in Houthaven, at least one visitor robbed

A performance by DJ Paul Kalkbrenner at Theater Amsterdam was disrupted by pepper spray on Thursday night, resulting in at least one reported robbery. Organizers believe criminal gangs use this tactic to cause panic and steal valuables from attendees, a recurring problem during large events like the Amsterdam Dance Event.

Dancing to 80s hits and home early: new afternoon party in Amsterdam

A new afternoon dance party called Matin80s is coming to Club Baggerbeest in Amsterdam on November 15. The event features music from the 1980s and concludes at 19:00, allowing attendees to enjoy the festivities while still having a full evening ahead.

Politics on the Amstel: City hall reorganization falters and striking ban on the way

Journalists discussed current policy challenges in Amsterdam, including the effectiveness of the 30 km/h speed limit and a potential ban on single-use packaging. The panel also reviewed Mayor Halsema's leadership and the struggling reorganization of the municipal civil service.