Your guide to free ADE events in 2025

Every October, Amsterdam Dance Event turns the city into the global heartbeat of electronic music: an open invitation for anyone to join the celebration. You don’t need an expensive wristband or full festival pass to feel ADE’s energy, whether you’re dropping in for a day or staying the whole week.

This year, we’re spotlighting a curated selection of ADE free events where iedereen welkom truly means everyone is invited. Spread across the full ADE program - with special highlights on ADE Wednesday and ADE Thursday - you’ll find something to experience every day.

From cultural exhibitions, amazing line ups, and art installations to secret parties tucked into unexpected corners, ADE opens its doors wide for locals and visitors alike. And if you’re ready to dive deeper into the program, you can buy ADE tickets for official events to make sure you don’t miss out on the biggest moments.

Parties to kick off ADE

Saturo Sounds at 50:Hertz House and Techno Cafe

Wed, Oct 22, 2025 50:Hertz House & Techno Café, Amsterdam

Looking for the perfect way to kick off your ADE week? The Saturo Sounds Opening Party has earned its place as a fan favourite. Taking over the 50:Hertz House & Techno Café, it blends rolling house grooves with deep techno rhythms, delivered by a diverse lineup of international DJs. Entry is free; you just need to register early to claim your spot. Pro tip: add it to your ADE app schedule so you don’t miss out.

Women of House Presents: Free Love at PRIK

One of ADE’s most beloved traditions returns in 2025: Women of House: Free Love. On Saturday, 25 October, PRIK transforms into a hub of inclusivity and joy, powered by an international all-female DJ lineup. Expect soulful house, disco, and tech-house from talented artists including Better (KR), DJ Justine (GB), First Lady (US), Isa Carrillo (ES), KIMONO (NL), Mercedes (US), and Mia Banks (NL).

More than just a party, it's a movement dedicated to championing gender and sexual orientation diversity, while creating a space that everyone can enjoy. Now marking its 10th anniversary, it stands as an ADE highlight: intimate, iconic, and driven by the belief that music, love, and connection belong to all.

Morning Soundbath at Villa Buitenlust

Not every moment calls for a sleepless night on the dance floor. Morning Soundbath offers a restorative reset. Set in the serene Villa Buitenlust, the experience layers meditative sounds and gentle atmospheres with a live performance, as Sana debuts her EP Meditations on The Elements. Guests arrive with a yoga mat, recline, and let the vibrations wash over them, soothing body and mind while opening a new dimension of the festival.

It’s a reminder that this is more than nightlife; it’s a cultural celebration where music can heal just as deeply as it excites.

GDE: Presents WE ALL DANCE TOGETHER at Blend XL

On Wednesday, 22 October, Blend XL becomes home to GDE: We All Dance Together - one of the standout parties of ADE 2025. With free admission and a diverse lineup of international house and techno DJs, the night celebrates connection, community, and the pure joy of the dance floor. Best of all, it's an open invitation to experience the true spirit of ADE without a ticket.

Borisov Takeover in Houthavens

Borisov Takeover is all about raw, unfiltered energy. Set against the industrial backdrop of Houthavens, this party channels the spirit of underground culture with a secret lineup of house and techno selectors. It’s a weekend staple among ADE’s events, pulling in crowds who come for the music, stay for the atmosphere, and enjoy the spontaneity. The only catch? Get there early; once the venue hits capacity, the doors are shut.

But Borisov isn’t just about the night. By day, it flips the script with surprise yoga sessions, fusing body movement and music in unexpected ways. It’s a fresh reminder that during ADE, creativity doesn’t sleep - it spills into every corner.

Flight Mode at The Web

On Saturday, 25 October, Flight Mode touches down at The Web for ADE 2025. Curated by Sagia and inspired by her monthly radio show, the concept dives into deeper electronic sounds – melodic house, progressive, and techno - crafted for connection rather than noise. This is a night for those ready to 'disconnect from the pings' and lose themselves in music that tells a story. Expect a no-ego, all-feeling dance floor where immersion is everything.

Deep Stories Records Label Showcase

On Saturday, 25 October, Deep Stories Records takes over the 50:HERTZ House & Techno Café for a full-day showcase. Founders and residents The Doubljuh and Kork are joined by NOØISE and Yeröm, bringing immersive sets that span melodic techno and deep house. With a relaxed daytime atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to connect with fellow fans, discover new sounds, and dive into the Deep Stories vibe.

How to find and secure your spots

Navigating ADE’s endless options can feel overwhelming, but finding free events is easier than it looks. Start your ADE day with the official program, paying special attention to the ADE Friends and Arts & Culture sections; read these as they are packed with open-access events designed to welcome everyone and highlight experiences beyond the big club nights. For certain exclusive gatherings, an RSVP might be required to guarantee your spot, so keep an eye out for registration links.

Another insider tip? Explore the city itself. During this event, bars, record shops, and even tattoo parlours transform into pop-up venues. Some shops double as community hubs, hosting intimate performances and social sessions alongside live DJ sets. The rule of thumb: if you hear music spilling into the street or spot a crowd gathering, step inside – chances are you’ve just stumbled onto an event, where no ticket is needed.

FAQs

1. What types of free events happen at ADE 2025?

From house and techno parties to art expos, radio showcases, and ambient sound journeys, the free program covers every style of electronic music. There are also DJ workshops where beginners can learn the basics and start their DJ journey.

2. How can I join the Saturo Sounds Opening Party?

This event is free but requires registration. Arrive early to secure your spot and dance late into the night.

3. Which programs always include free events?

Keep an eye on ADE Friends and Arts & Culture - they’re designed for open access and cultural exchange.

4. Will “Women of House - Free Love” return in 2025?

Yes, this iconic party will return to Prik, bringing love and inclusivity back to the dance floor.

5. Where can I find free surprise pop-ups?

Wander through neighbourhoods like De 9 Straatjes, Westergas, and Houthavens. Pop-up DJ sets, vinyl shops, and gallery expos appear all week long.

6. Can I really enjoy ADE without spending money?

Absolutely. Between free parties, cultural events, and outdoor activities, the week offers plenty of ways to experience Amsterdam without paying.

7. What music genres are covered at free events?

Expect everything from soulful house and techno to experimental and even live music fusions. Special Friday events are also part of the free program, often featuring unique house and Afrobeat sets.

8. How do I know when events start?

The easiest way is to check the official schedule, which lists all start times in detail. Some events kick off as early as mid-afternoon, while others roll on late into the night. Keep an eye on the program highlights too - especially Friday’s special lineups - to make sure you don’t miss the standout moments.

9. Can newcomers join without knowing anyone?

Of course. It prides itself on being open to all, and everyone is welcome, which means you’ll always find a welcoming crowd.

Before you go

Free events are part of what makes ADE truly special - they prove that music is for everyone, no matter the budget.

Across Amsterdam, you’ll find house, techno beats, cultural expos, and creative pop-ups turning it into a living, breathing festival. From DJs spinning in record shops to hidden-gem parties that feel like best-kept secrets, these moments bring people together in ways that feel both spontaneous and unforgettable.

So grab your group, follow the sound, and step through the city’s open doors. The festival is waiting, and the best part? You can experience so much of it without breaking the bank.