Music Guide (October 2026)

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POP & ROCK CONCERTS

Editor’s Pick: Slayyyter

If you like: Charli XCX, ADÉLA

One of the year’s breakout popstars, Slayyyter’s third recordWorst Girl in Americahas sent her stratospheric, and rightly so. A blend of blistering beats, riotous punk-infused lyrics and a vocal range that never fails to surprise, Slayyyter’s latest LP is as much about the dancefloor as it is deliverance. Check out ‘DANCE!’ for a suitable introduction to her sound or ‘Brand New Chanels’ – which is arguably one of the year’s best pop songs –  before you head to Paradiso this October.

19 October | doors open 19:00 | Paradiso | buy tickets

Placebo

If you like: Muse, Manic Street Preachers

A bit grunge-y, a little glam and heavily Brit pop-inspired, Placebo charted a course through the 90s with their gender-bending and subversive sound. Melancholic and melodic, the reissue of their debut album earlier this year – dubbedPlacebo RE:CREATED– was a reminder of their distinctive sound, and a perfect autumnal soundtrack for a Tuesday in October. 

27 October | doors open 18:00 | Ziggo Dome | buy tickets

Allie X

If you like: Grimes, MARINA

One of indie pop’s most daring and unsung acts, Canadian singer Allie X reinvents herself every album. This time, donning an ethereal, Victorian-esque aesthetic for the visuals in her fourth LPHappiness is Going to Get You, her sound is sparse, organic and more subdued than her last outings. Catch her at Melkweg, where she’ll reel off her latest plus favourites from Cape God and Super Sunset  – we’re holding out for a live rendition ofFresh Laundry,ScienceorGirl of the Year(give them a listen before you go).

17 October | doors open 19:00 | Melkweg | buy tickets

Ryan Beatty

If you like: Troye Sivan, Lizzy MacAlpine

A darling of the indie pop scene, Ryan Beatty has arguably released his best music yet with Sweet Fortune. Soft pop that’s a lingering taste of summer, Beatty’s honeyed vocals and yearning lyrics are the kind of comfort listen you need whether you’re falling in love or out of it. “Did you hear what my words couldn’t tell? I love you , I say it” he croons on Secret Language as a trumpet soars in the background – listen closely and you might just fall head over heels too. 

28 October | doors open 19:00 | Paradiso | buy tickets

CLASSICAL & JAZZ CONCERTS

Classical Pick: Ólafur Arnalds - Falling Apart Together

If you like: Emotional, atmospheric classical 

The globally acclaimed composer from Iceland heads to Amsterdam for his most ambitious project yet. Dubbed ‘Falling Apart Together’, his quest is to bring the audience closer to him through 19 attempts that span new and old works, that look to erode the layers existing between us. Making his Concertgebouw debut, this promises to be an intimate and spellbinding affair.  

14-15 October | times vary | Concertgebouw | buy tickets

Uniquely Great: Joe Hisaishi

If you like: Studio Ghibli

For the very first time ever, Amsterdam’s biggest orchestra pays a visit to the capital’s largest concert hall in this musical meeting of the titans. For three days in October, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra will perform at the Ziggo Dome under the moniker Uniquely Great. Step into the world of Joe Hisaishi’s best and beloved film scores from Studio Ghibli films, or surrender to the classics, including Beethoven’s iconic Ninth Symphony, on the second night.

2-4 October | Ziggo Dome | buy tickets

Cello Biennale Amsterdam

If you like: inventive cello music 

The Muziekgebouw and Bimhuis play host to one of the biggest annual events this autumn as they welcome the world’s largest cello festival. Complete with top celloists from all over the globe, you’ll find experimental performances, new talent and even a special night dedicated to cello, dance and club music. Grab a passe partout for the entire festival or pick the nights that appeal.

29 October-7 November | Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ | buy tickets

CLUBBING & FESTIVALS

Party Pick: ADE 30th Anniversary

Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) returns this year for a special anniversary edition, celebrating 30 years of world-class techno and electronica. There’s almost too much to choose from, but we’ve whittled down a list of the best parties, from the 7th edition of Homeless Homies at RADION, an iconic 30-hour special at Garage Noord with Breakfast Club, and a Patta-takeover at Skate Cafe for fashion and fits. 

21-25 October | city-wide

Haarlem Vinyl Festival

Dubbed the world’s first multi-day festival dedicated to vinyl, the Haarlem Vinyl Festival has become a staple of the city’s seasonal programme. You’ll find it all here: art, culture, listening sessions, vinyl talks, and live shows with DJS spinning new and old tunes – catch electro duo Weval perform on the opening night. Spread across the city’s best venues, like De Koepel and Jopenkerk, this is a great way to get a feel for Haarlem and create a soundtrack to remember it by.

2-4 October | Haarlem | buy tickets

Budget Pick: Free ADE Parties

For many, one of the main hurdles of ADE is the cost. Sure, you might get global names performing at your local record store and club, but the question of how the event can still cater to all budgets in the city is a big one. Luckily, there is a range of parties for those who don’t want to overspend – we’ve picked some of the best including the world’s longest back-to-back set hosted by Fosbury music studio, a women of house showcase at PRIK, label parties at Bordello Aperitivo record store and a special free opening night party at BRET.

21-25 October | city-wide

Halloween parties

All Hallows Eve, aka Halloween,, has grown in force every year, and while we can put some of that down to the spirits that haunt this night, it reflects a growing demand for Halloween celebrations. Try your hand at a spooky cabaret in the form of Fatale Cabaret at Raum – you can linger around after it’s over for a dance – come dressed as your worst nightmare for a Friday and Saturday night at NYX, or a no tricks just grooves for Club Roto at Lofi. Or go wild at the Supper Club’s haunted house with 30 different horror shows and other surprises lurking around every corner.

30-31 October | city-wide