Ekko is a renowned nightclub and music venue located in
Utrecht,
Netherlands, and has established itself as a vital hub for the Dutch alternative and electronic music scene. Originally opened in 1986, Ekko emerged as an essential cultural space at a time when
Utrecht was hungry for new venues that supported progressive and underground music. Over the decades, Ekko has built a reputation for its forward-thinking programming, offering a diverse range of concerts, club nights, and multidisciplinary events that consistently attract both local enthusiasts and visitors from across the country.
The venue is housed in a former army canteen on Bemuurde Weerd Westzijde, giving it a distinctive charm and fostering a sense of intimacy that distinguishes it from larger clubs. While the fundamental structure has largely remained the same since its early days, various renovations and modern updates have enhanced its acoustics, facilities, and streamlined its operations to better serve performers and audiences alike. More than just a nightclub, Ekko is considered a breeding ground for new talent and an incubator for exciting subcultures and emerging music trends within the
Netherlands.
Its commitment to talent development and close collaboration with local creative initiatives have cemented its cultural significance in
Utrecht’s vibrant music landscape.
Notable artists who have performed at Ekko include international acts such as
The xx, Mac DeMarco, The Tallest Man on Earth, and Explosions in the
Sky, alongside prominent local talents like Kensington, Blaudzun, Spinvis, De Staat, and Sue The Night. The venue has also hosted a range of innovative electronic musicians such as
James Blake and
Caribou before their rise to global acclaim, making Ekko a celebrated launchpad for artists at the forefront of contemporary music.