A new report examining nightlife participation in Amsterdam has revealed that late-night culture remains a major part of daily life in the Dutch capital. The study, conducted by research agencies VibeLab and PennPraxis, found that more than 90% of Amsterdam residents actively participate in the city’s nightlife scene, highlighting its continued cultural and social importance.
According to the survey results, most respondents reported going out several times each month, reflecting a strong and consistent engagement with late-night activities. Nearly half of those surveyed—41.7%—said they preferred venues with late-night or open-ended closing times, suggesting that flexible operating hours remain an important factor for nightlife audiences.
The report also highlighted several areas where residents believe the city’s nightlife could evolve. Around 39.7% of respondents expressed interest in more diverse and inclusive nightlife offerings, indicating a desire for programming that reflects a broader range of communities, music styles, and cultural experiences. Meanwhile, 38.8% of respondents pointed to the need for improved late-night transportation options, emphasizing the role that mobility plays in making nightlife safer and more accessible.
Affordability was another key theme identified in the findings. Participants suggested several ways to make nights out more accessible, including social ticket discounts, reimagining venues for multiple uses, and allocating municipal real estate to support nightlife operators. These ideas reflect a growing interest in treating nightlife not just as entertainment, but as an essential cultural and economic sector within the city.
Mirik Milan, co-founder of VibeLab and former Night Mayor of Amsterdam, said the report challenges the perception that nightlife is declining. Instead, he noted that the city is experiencing a cultural shift away from purely alcohol-driven nightlife toward more curated, community-oriented experiences. According to Milan, the demand for night culture particularly among younger audiences is continuing to grow as nightlife evolves into a space that prioritizes creativity, safety, and diversity.
