Based on reporting by AT5
Amsterdam's vibrant and diverse nightlife is at a key moment as the city prepares to elect its new Night Mayor at the end of November. The position, currently held by Freek Wallagh who is stepping down after a three-and-a-half-year term, serves as a crucial bridge between the city's after-dark culture, its residents, and the municipal government.
The Night Mayor acts as an independent advocate for the night, advising the city on policy and serving as a point of contact for everyone from club owners to partygoers. For the LGBTQ+ community, where nightlife often provides essential spaces for connection and self-expression, the role is particularly significant. Two distinct candidacies are in the running to take the helm: music journalist Fien Bulsing and the brother duo Diès and Taj Kroon.
Fien Bulsing: A Focus on Collaboration
Fien Bulsing, a music journalist, is campaigning on a platform of increased unity within the nightlife sector. She aims to shift the focus from competition to cooperation among clubs and event organizers. "I want to ensure that clubs work and communicate with each other more," Bulsing stated. Her vision includes creating a network for sharing knowledge, referring up-and-coming artists, and making more room for experimental projects.
Diès & Taj Kroon: A Duo for Policy and Scene
Cultural entrepreneurs and brothers Diès and Taj Kroon are running as a joint ticket, proposing a two-pronged approach to the role. Their goal is to forge a stronger, more effective relationship between the nightlife scene and the city's government. They plan to divide responsibilities based on their strengths.
Taj will focus on direct engagement with the community, saying, "I will primarily look at the needs of the night scene and what is missing." Diès will handle the structural and policy side, with a concrete objective in mind. "I will be the one having the conversations with the municipality," he explained. "Our goal for 2027 is to arrange a pilot for the night metro," a long-sought-after goal for the city's late-night travelers.
The Election
The new Night Mayor will be chosen on Thursday, 26 November at the Melkweg. During the event, both Fien Bulsing and the Kroon brothers will present their visions for the future of Amsterdam's night. The winner will be selected by a combination of votes from a professional jury and the public in attendance.
