The Netherlands See Nightclubs Reopen at Full Capacity

Last weekend marked the start of a new beginning for most Dutch party people. Loads of nightclubs and venues across the entirety of the Netherlands are finally allowed to reopen at maximum capacity. Bars where already allowed to be open till 10pm, but last weekend saw this limitation finally being removed.

The news arrived sooner than expected, as the grand reopening of Dutch nightclubs were originally scheduled for June 30th, however, venues have been scrambling to prepare for a crazy weekend of partying a week earlier, with thousands set to experience the long lost freedom of clubbing once more. The step was taken as part of the fourth phase of restrictions that were to be lifted in the country as places such as bars, cafes and restaurants reopened their doors just over two weeks ago.

The Dutch Government issued the following statement on their official website, detailing the lifting of said restrictions:

“Under step four, events where guests don’t have an assigned seat, will be allowed subject to 1.5-metre distancing or entry passes, as well as other conditions. Examples include festivals, concerts and funfairs. However, these events must take account of local rules and requirements, such as permits. Discotheques and nightclubs also fall under this provision.”

One of the most iconic nightclubs in Amsterdam, Paradiso, is one of the venues that was open last weekend. They were hosting an exclusive performance from DJ Reinier Zonneveld. It was the first time the venue had opened its doors since March 2020. The Netherlands will nearly be back to normal as thousands of revelers eagerly enter nightclubs across the Netherlands the following weeks. Party-goers will need to present a negative test taken at least 40 hours prior to entry, but once inside the club, no social distancing or masks will be required. After July 1, a vaccination or recovery certificate will also be accepted to enter the venue. One can only wonder what this means for the rest of clubs and festival across Europe. One thing is for sure that most people are looking eagerly to go out and party with their friends again.