OT301

Oude West / Westerpark, Amsterdam –

Formerly a film academy, the building that now houses OT301 was taken over by an enterprising group of artists who revamped it into a multimedia cultural center dedicated to parties, music, and food.

Now home to a club, a film cinema, art studios, and the De Peper vegan café, OT301 has maintained its urban roots, which are still apparent in the minimal décor, the graffiti-covered walls, and the ever-changing displays of urban street art.

An alternative crowd frequents the unique and affordable events that happen daily, especially on the weekends when the 400-person main room hosts live bands, DJs, theme parties, and more that feature everything from techno to hip-hop to indie rock.

The equally popular weeknights are given over to ping-pong and beer nights, movie screenings, live bands, and dance performances.

By day, the venue offers art workshops, flea markets, health and yoga seminars, and even break dance and trapeze lessons that often extend into the evening, while on Sundays and Tuesdays the film room screens a variety of documentaries and cult classics.

One of the unusual aspects of OT301 is that staff members are all volunteers and the functions are all non-profit – all proceeds go toward maintaining the buildings and its events.

Such a place naturally attracts a liberal crowd of young activists, minorities, and students with underground or alternative lifestyles, who undoubtedly help create the laid-back, open-minded, and ultimately friendly atmosphere.

From punks and hippies to travelers and students, everyone is welcome at OT301’s center of free expression.