SESH

Sportpark Riekerhaven is a unique and culturally significant nightlife venue located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Originally developed as a sports park, the space has evolved into an unconventional hotspot for music events, club nights, and underground gatherings. Over the years, Sportpark Riekerhaven has been distinguished by its raw and industrial aesthetic, often hosting events in large, open halls and outdoor areas that were once used for sporting and community activities.

It has garnered a reputation as a breeding ground for Amsterdam’s alternative and experimental music scenes, providing a platform for everything from techno and house to punk and hip hop. The venue's location in Amsterdam's Nieuw-West district has made it somewhat of a hidden gem, drawing dedicated fans and subcultures from across the city and beyond. Throughout its history, Sportpark Riekerhaven has seen various transformations, both structurally and in terms of its purpose.

While originally designed as a municipal sports facility, the decline in traditional sporting activities led local collectives and promoters to reimagine the space as a venue for nightlife and creative expression in the mid-2010s. This adaptive reuse breathed new life into the park, making it a central node in the city’s vibrant nightlife ecosystem. Temporary pop-up structures, modular stages, and innovative light installations have periodically redefined the look and feel of the venue, adapting to the ambitions of event organizers.

Despite occasional concerns about zoning and the encroachment of residential development, Sportpark Riekerhaven has maintained its edge as a site for large-scale raves, warehouse parties, and forward-thinking cultural events, further cementing its legacy in Amsterdam’s urban fabric. Notable artists who have performed at Sportpark Riekerhaven include internationally acclaimed acts such as Nina Kraviz, Jeff Mills, Charlotte de Witte, and DJs from the Dekmantel and DGTL collectives. The venue has also showcased beloved local talent, including Job Jobse, Cinnaman, Marella B2B, and members of the Rush Hour Records family.

Through hosting these renowned and emerging artists, Sportpark Riekerhaven continues to be a vital destination for music lovers and a beacon of Amsterdam’s underground spirit.