Dear Aa readers,
June 21st is right around the corner, and somehow the longest day of the year (happy midsummer!) has once again crept up on us. Not joining the exodus to Paris for Fête de la Musique? Skipping the RING party? Staying put while others chase sunsets elsewhere? Don’t worry—Amsterdam isn’t slowing down. Whether you’re navigating the buzz of 750 years of Amsterdam, braving the heat for last-minute plans, or simply embracing the chaos of the weekend ahead, one thing is clear: it’s going to be a hot one, and there’s no shortage of things to do.
Between the heat and the social fatigue, you might be craving a different pace. We get it. We’re known for pointing you toward the parties, must-see sets, and who to dance next to until sunrise. But sometimes, you just want a weekend that doesn’t demand everything from you. A detour from the chaos.
So consider this your Aa-approved escape route. A softer Saturday. Still outside, still soaking up the city, but on your terms. Think SPF, a good book, a little shade, and maybe a scoop of something sweet.
In true Aa fashion (read: our undying love for lists), we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite not-so-obvious ways to enjoy the longest day of the year. Festival-free, pressure-free, joy-heavy.
Here’s where we’re heading:
1. Lait de Choco x Oatly Celebration
ICE CREAM. Yes. Honestly, it should be a legal obligation to eat ice cream when temperatures climb above 25°C. Lait de Choco is serving a limited-edition soft serve collab with Oatly: smoked whiskey chocolate caramel with white sesame and salted potato chips. We’re not kidding. First 100 lucky visitors get theirs for free, and there’s even a T-shirt drop happening.
Where: Czaar Peterstraat 118
2. Prinseneiland
We said it before, we’ll say it again: this hidden gem is one of our go-to places for a dip and a read. The pigs are still there, and yes, they’re still extremely cute.
3. Twee Prinsen x Cosmo Tacos Pop-Up
Cosmo returns to Twee Prinsen for another round of tacos and mezcal cocktails to mark the longest day of the year. Grab a bite, grab a drink, and enjoy their terrace for some low-pressure sun-soaked relaxing.
Where: Prinsenstraat 27
4. The Gang is Beautiful presents O’54
Ever fantasized about New York in the 70s—those long, electric nights soundtracked by disco and filled with iconic artists and musicians, all centered around the legendary club Studio 54? This weekend, The Gang is Beautiful is bringing that energy to Skatecafe, with an incredible lineup of live acts and DJs. One you won’t want to miss!
Where: Gedempt Hamerkanaal 42
5. Pakistani Food Pop-Up at Omoka
Food lovingly prepared by a Pakistani mom and her daughter at the new Omoka Amsterdam location, can it get more wholesome? A must-visit if you’re looking to delight your taste buds.
Where: Doctor Jan van Breemenstraat 1
6. Gymshark Amsterdam Grand Opening
Not typically on our radar, but there’s something oddly compelling about a full-blown store opening, especially when it’s Gymshark’s first-ever on the European mainland. Whether you’re a gym regular or just like a comfy matching set, this could be the moment to sneak in and maybe spot founder Ben Francis IRL. If you’re in the area anyway (and let’s be honest, you probably will be), consider stopping by.
Where: Kalverstraat 178
Whether you’re laying low or letting loose, midsummer only happens once a year. Make it count. In whatever way feels good.
Xx, Aa
