Occii venue image

Info

Occii is an independent alternative music venue and nightclub located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Situated in the Oud-Zuid district, the venue’s full name is "Onafhankelijk Cultureel Centrum In It" (Independent Cultural Centre In It), though it is widely known simply as OCCII. The building originally dates back to the late 19th century when it functioned as a horse tram garage, making it a notable example of eclectic architecture designed by architect Abraham Salm in 1883.

In the late 1980s, the premises were occupied by a collective of squatters and activists who transformed the space into a hub for underground music, social activism, and countercultural events. OCCII has since evolved into a legal, self-managed venue run primarily by volunteers, emphasizing a non-commercial ethos and a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to programming and management. Its cultural significance is evident in Amsterdam’s alternative scene—it serves as a breeding ground for underground music genres such as punk, experimental, noise, hardcore, electronic, and world music, and is especially renowned for its inclusivity, grassroots organization, and ongoing support for marginalized communities and boundary-pushing art forms.

Over the years, the venue has maintained much of its original structure, although it has undergone necessary safety-related renovations and improvements to better accommodate audiences and artists. Despite the pressures of gentrification and rising property values in Amsterdam, OCCII continues to stand as a monument to autonomous cultural production and a testament to the city’s squatter history. Notable artists who have performed at OCCII include international acts such as Lightning Bolt, Melt-Banana, The Ex, Acid Mothers Temple, Deerhoof, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, and MV & EE.

Local Dutch talent and collectives like ZEA, Krach, Awanto 3, and the improvisational ensemble The Thing have also graced its stage, alongside a diverse array of emerging and established performers from genres spanning punk, noise, electronic, folk, and experimental music. The venue regularly collaborates with underground labels and independent promoters, ensuring a consistently varied and adventurous program.

Capacity

The capacity of Occii is 200.

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Past Artists

UPDATED : 15 October 2025 at 22:04

Occii | SESH.sx