Amsterdam is searching for a new night mayor to serve as the voice and face of the city after dark. Anyone can put themselves forward for the position.
The role is currently held by Freek Wallagh, who was elected in 2023. In November, the Stichting Nachtburgemeester Amsterdam will determine who succeeds him.
Selection process and Melkweg finale
The night mayor acts as an independent bridge between nightlife culture, local residents, business owners, and city hall, offering both solicited and unsolicited advice to the municipal government.
Amsterdam residents will be able to vote online for their preferred candidates. The five applicants with the most votes will present their visions for the future of local nightlife at the Melkweg on 26 November.
A professional jury and the venue audience will select the winner that same evening. Previous holders of the office include Shamiro van der Geld and Ramon de Lima.
The position was first created in 2002 following an initiative by the GroenLinks party to support and improve nightlife in the city. Candidate applications are submitted through the foundation’s website.

