paroolNov 3, 2026, 18:50

Everything discussed within the Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club remains secret, so Koen Kleijn (63) sometimes had to rely on other sources while writing his book

Author Koen Kleijn recounts the history of the Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club in his latest book, Op stand aan de Dam. Because the club upholds a strict policy of secrecy, Kleijn was forced to rely on documents like statutes and membership lists rather than internal discussions to complete his research.

Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Amsterdam comedy club Comedy Queens features an all-female lineup: It is quite tough when you are the only woman on the bill

Amsterdam has launched a new comedy venue called Comedy Queens, which exclusively features female performers. Founder Fransje Westermann established the club to provide a supportive environment where women can develop their skills and advance their careers in comedy.

Light show returns to Dam Square on New Year's Eve, 'grim atmosphere has been turned around'

Amsterdam will again host a light and music show on the Dam this New Year's Eve to promote a festive atmosphere, as part of a city-wide effort to create new traditions amid a national ban on consumer fireworks. While the mayor praised the shift toward safer celebrations, she remains focused on managing potential illegal firework activity and resolving community tensions in neighborhoods like Floradorp.

Lomanstraat becomes an even bigger tourist magnet due to social media: "Dozens of people every day"

The Lomanstraat in Amsterdam has become a major tourist attraction due to its unique crooked plane trees, which have gained fame on social media. While dozens of visitors arrive daily to photograph the trees, local residents report that the increased foot traffic does not cause them significant nuisance.

Amsterdam restaurants closed due to labor exploitation

Mayor Femke Halsema has ordered two Indian restaurants in Amsterdam to close for three months following evidence of labor exploitation and human trafficking. Investigations revealed that employees were underpaid and forced to work excessive hours, with owners failing to change these practices despite previous oversight.

No extra punishment for plank assault at UvA protest, perpetrator must pay damages

A pro-Palestinian demonstrator who struck two people with a plank during a 2024 protest at the University of Amsterdam has been ordered to pay over 2,000 euros in damages. The court convicted him of attempted aggravated assault but decided against further prison time or community service, citing the 36 days he already spent in custody.