This spring, De Wallen will be buzzing with art and creativity! Many Amsterdammers are unaware how much culture is hidden in the narrow streets of this iconic neighbourhood. But these creative roots have now grown into a colourful bouquet of tantalising festivals. Almost every month you can visit for large-scale events with free activities on the streets, in the shops and cafes. And to keep abreast of the many cultural developments in the neighbourhood, new local media channels are now unfolding.
Festivals
On 13 April, Red Light Arts & Culture kicks off the festival season with Street Full of Art in the Sint Annenkwartier. The creativity hidden in this oldest part of Amsterdam will be brought to life with concerts, exhibitions, workshops and dance performances in shops, alleys and hidden locations. The festival is for young and old, and alongside the professional talent, there will be communal artwork. At the same time, walk one minute further around the Oude Kerk, and you'll find the Spring Festival, with neighbourhood stories and music by residents' association Wallenbuurt and We Live Here.
On 6, 7 and 8 June, the neighbourhood will be all about Red Light Jazz. The 12th edition of Amsterdam's biggest jazz festival will once again bring jazz lovers together in an old-fashioned way at venues throughout the neighbourhood; from intimate concerts to performances by renowned national and international jazz artists. Red Light Jazz combines traditional and modern jazz with the unique atmosphere in the oldest part of town where jazz was introduced by American sailors in the 1920s and 1930s. The festival is not only a tribute to the style of music but also to the Red Light District.
The cultural spring gets a festive summer finale with the Red Light District Festival. On 5 and 6 July, get the unique chance to (re)discover Amsterdam's vibrant city centre. Stroll along the picturesque canals and through the narrow alleys, enjoy live music, taste local delicacies, attend a mini-workshop and visit one of the many special historical buildings. There are more than 70 activities as colourful as the neighbourhood.
Media channels
Online and over the airwaves, too, Red Light District culture is increasingly emerging:
Straight from the heart of the city at 44 Zeedijk, Red Light Jazz Radio lets you hear all the great things happening in the neighbourhood (Nieuwmarkt, Zeedijk, De Wallen, Breestraten and Waterlooplein). The station is committed to raising the profile of all these positive initiatives and strengthening commitments. Exactly one year ago, live broadcasts began with a weekly programme on Wednesday nights. Since then, there is also a live show on Fridays and on Monday nights from 17-19. Listen on 99.4fm via Salto or download the Red Light Jazz Radio App and enjoy great music 24/7 too!
Totally fresh is the platform Nieuwmarktbuurt.amsterdam, with website, podcast and social media channels where you can discover inspiring stories, creative initiatives, the best things and the people who make the neighbourhood so special. For the first time, the neighbourhood agenda collects in one place all cultural and social activities taking place on the Red Light District and in the Nieuwmarkt neighbourhood. Here you can find all the above festivals and much more throughout the year. Makers are also welcome to contribute their ownrun to the platform, contact socials@nieuwmarktbuurt.amsterdam for this.
Come discover the creative soul of The Red Light District this spring!
