If you're passionate about New Retro Wave and find yourself in the Netherlands, you're in for a treat. The Netherlands is known for its rich electronic music culture and offers an array of festivals and concerts that celebrate synthwave, retrowave, and other nostalgic 80s-inspired sounds. From immersive club events to massive music festivals, here’s a guide to some top Dutch venues and events you shouldn't miss as a New Retro Wave enthusiast.
Amsterdam’s famous Melkweg (Milky Way) is one of the Netherlands’ best venues for live music, and it regularly hosts themed events like Synthwave Night. Dedicated to the New Retro Wave genre, these events bring together top synthwave artists, producers, and DJs who deliver live performances in an intimate and visually immersive setting. The venue’s top-notch sound system, impressive lighting, and neon-lit atmosphere make it the perfect place to experience New Retro Wave up close. Keep an eye on their calendar, as Synthwave Nights often feature prominent artists from the global synthwave scene.
Melkweg’s Synthwave Night provides an ideal setting for both die-hard synthwave fans and newcomers. The venue’s central location in Amsterdam and variety of music programming make it accessible and always buzzing.
2. E-Tropolis Festival: The Netherlands Edition
E-Tropolis is a well-known electronic and industrial music festival that sometimes has a Netherlands edition. While this festival focuses on a broader spectrum of electronic music, the Netherlands edition typically showcases acts that lean heavily into retro-inspired and synthwave sounds. With a mix of European and international artists, it’s an ideal setting for fans of New Retro Wave who also enjoy exploring adjacent genres like darkwave, electro, and minimal synth.
E-Tropolis offers New Retro Wave fans a broader look at the electronic music scene, and the event’s diverse lineup promises something for everyone. With stages featuring both classic and modern synth sounds, it’s a fantastic experience for fans looking to enjoy New Retro Wave alongside other electronic subgenres.
While Roadburn in Tilburg is known for alternative and heavy music, it has started incorporating more synthwave and experimental acts, especially in recent years. This genre-spanning festival often features ambient and electronic artists whose styles complement New Retro Wave aesthetics. The atmosphere at Roadburn is renowned for being open-minded and artistically immersive, making it a unique experience for fans looking for something beyond traditional synthwave shows.
Roadburn Festival’s dedication to experimental music allows New Retro Wave fans to discover artists who fuse synth elements with a range of sounds, from metal to ambient. Plus, Tilburg’s proximity to Amsterdam and Rotterdam makes it accessible for both locals and tourists.
WaveFest in Rotterdam celebrates various synth genres, including New Retro Wave. Known for its laid-back vibe and passionate community, WaveFest attracts fans from all over Europe. The festival features live performances from emerging and established artists in the synthwave and retro genres, giving fans a chance to experience new music and classic hits alike. Additionally, WaveFest often includes visual artists and vendors, making it a multidimensional event celebrating retro-inspired music and culture.
Rotterdam’s growing electronic scene and WaveFest’s dedication to synth and retro styles make it a must-visit for synthwave fans. The festival is a great place to connect with like-minded fans and explore the latest sounds in the genre.
5. KadePop Festival: Zwolle
Held annually in Zwolle, KadePop Festival is a versatile music festival that welcomes various genres, including New Retro Wave. While it’s not exclusively dedicated to synthwave, KadePop has carved a niche by including retro-inspired artists who channel 80s sounds and aesthetics. The festival’s diverse lineup and local setting make it a hidden gem for fans who want to experience New Retro Wave outside of Amsterdam’s mainstream music scene.
KadePop’s combination of alternative and electronic music, along with its relaxed atmosphere, makes it a refreshing alternative for fans seeking a smaller, more eclectic experience in the Netherlands.
Another Amsterdam hotspot, Paradiso Noord, frequently hosts events that cater to synthwave and chillwave enthusiasts. Their lineup often includes DJs and artists who specialize in New Retro Wave and similar genres. Located in the vibrant NDSM wharf area, Paradiso Noord combines cutting-edge performances with breathtaking views of Amsterdam’s waterfront. These events offer a laid-back, neon-filled experience that fans of the genre won’t want to miss.
With its iconic setting and rotating roster of international synthwave artists, Paradiso Noord is a prime destination for synthwave lovers. The smaller venue size allows for intimate performances and great views of the artists, creating a truly memorable experience.
Final Thoughts
From Amsterdam’s iconic Melkweg and Paradiso Noord to alternative festivals in Rotterdam and Tilburg, the Netherlands is home to a dynamic synthwave scene that offers something for every New Retro Wave fan. Whether you prefer the energy of a festival or an intimate club night, each of these events provides a unique way to enjoy the retro-futuristic sounds you love. Mark your calendar, and prepare for an unforgettable musical journey through the Dutch synthwave scene.
