The Wallen Festival (Red Light District Festival) offers Amsterdammers a renewed introduction to the old city centre. Enjoy a summer concert at The Old Man, sample coffee at the Schenkerij, and draw a Klimaatkop at the Waag Futurelab. At Our Lord in the Attic Museum, a fun goodie bag will be waiting for you (while stocks last) so you can quickly move on to all the other festivities afterwards. Get to know the rich diversity of the Old Town.

Many Amsterdammers think the old city centre is a monoculture with only flat commercial entertainment for tourists. However, the neighbourhood is actually rich in culture, unique businesses, quirky residents and social activities. An alliance of entrepreneurs, cultural and social institutions, culture makers and residents wants to correct this image by organising the Wallen Festival, which will highlight all the ingredients of the neighbourhood.

Practical information:

The Wallen Festival takes place on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June. Most locations can be visited between 12:00 and 17:00. More than 80 locations will offer free or discounted activities to visit, using a programme leaflet and map to map out your own route. For more information, please visit our social media, or @wallenfestival’s social media. You can also pick up a programme booklet at the market stall on the Nieuwmarkt, or at participating venues during the festival.