By blending historic elegance with modern appeal, Amsterdam’s Candlelight venues bring a fresh dimension to the city’s live music scene. This season, striking locations like the Posthoornkerk and the Royal Theater Tuschinski are hosting tribute concerts honoring both classical maestros and contemporary icons. As these iconic spaces are bathed in the glow of thousands of candles, the breathtaking ambiance becomes an integral part of the show itself. It offers a truly compelling reason to attend, allowing you to experience live performances in a uniquely intimate and visually captivating setting.
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Candlelight concert near you: Locations in Amsterdam
Royal Theater Tuschinski at Candlelight
In the heart of Amsterdam stands one of the most iconic movie theaters in the world. The opulent Art Deco interiors of the Royal Tuschinski Theater, built by Abraham Tuschinski in 1921, provide the backdrop for Candlelight concerts that cast the venue in a whole new light. The richly decorated foyers, imposing staircases, and colorful murals reflect a unique blend of the Amsterdam School, Jugendstil, and Art Nouveau styles. Just a stone’s throw from Rembrandtplein, the theater is easily accessible via tram lines 4 and 14 from Central Station, and the Rokin metro station is a six-minute walk away. The Rembrandt House and the lively nightlife scene of the city center are just around the corner.
The Royal Tuschinski Theatre is located at Reguliersbreestraat 26-34, Amsterdam.
De Waalse Kerk: A fascinating historical spot
De Waalse Kerk, a historic church in Amsterdam, was originally built in 1409 and has undergone several renovations, including major work in 1661, 1816, and 1990-1992. It serves the French-speaking Protestant community, hosting weekly services and concerts due to its excellent acoustics. Notable figures buried here include artist Bartholomeus van der Helst and scientist Jan Swammerdam. A national monument since 1970, it remains a cultural and spiritual hub.
De Waalse Kerk is located at Walenpleintje 159, 1012 JZ Amsterdam
Posthoornkerk by Candlelight
Designed by renowned architect P.J.H. Cuypers in 1863, Posthoornkerk showcases striking neo-Gothic architecture with dual towers, exceptional acoustics, and luminous stained glass windows creating an intimate atmosphere for musical performances. Candlelight concerts at Posthoornkerk offer live music in Haarlemmerbuurt, with bus lines 18, 21, and 22 stopping at nearby Haarlemmerplein just 3 minutes away. This historic church, the architect’s first Amsterdam commission before designing the Rijksmuseum and Centraal Station, sits steps from the vibrant Jordaan district and canal-lined streets.
Posthoornkerk is located at Haarlemmerstraat 124-126, Amsterdam.
Zuiderkerk by Candlelight
The bells and the echo of the canals surrounding Nieuwmarkt give the Zuiderkerk an unmistakable old-Amsterdam character even before the first note is played. Within walking distance of the Nieuwmarkt and Waterlooplein metro stations, the former Protestant church rises above the neighborhood, with its striking Renaissance tower and airy interior. Candlelight concerts perfectly complement the silence and spaciousness of the building. Under the vaults, live music in the Nieuwmarkt neighborhood takes on a soft and contemplative quality.
Zuiderkerk is located at Zuiderkerkhof 72, Amsterdam
More classical concert venues in Amsterdam The Concertgebouw: Amsterdam’s most prestigious venue for classical music is a neoclassical gem that attracts top orchestras and soloists from around the world. Muziekgebouw aan ‘t IJ: With a view over the IJ, this venue features modern architecture, fantastic acoustics, and a diverse musical program.
