What the WASTELAND Summerfest 2024 was like

Coffee shops, bicycles and fetish

The Dutch metropolis of Amsterdam is best known for its bicycles, moats and coffee shops. But people who are attracted to subculture and fetish culture also find their place in Amsterdam. It is no coincidence that the Wasteland Party, also known as the Cirque du Soleil versus Marquis de Sade, has been one of the biggest and best-known fetish parties in the world since 1994. In 2017, the first Summerfest was created – a combination of post-apocalyptic themes, fetish and electronic music. The venue for the celebration on July 6 this year was once again the Kaap Amsterdam. A city beach on the banks of the IJ with a rugged view, a restaurant with a terrace and plenty of space.

Post-apocalyptic weather?

As at every fetish party, the age of majority and the dress code are also binding here. The organizers do not insist on high heels due to the sandy ground and fabric is actually allowed due to the low summer temperatures, but everything must have a post-apocalyptic touch and you should try to express your personal fetish. Therefore, the typical “3 Ls” are of course also welcome: Vinyl, leather, latex. Despite the appropriate end-time weather and recurring questions as to whether it would have to be canceled at short notice, the one-day festival was able to start despite the constant storms and heavy rain. Once you had made it past the so-called “doorbitches”, who control the strict dress code, you could either stow your bags and other annoying appendages in one of the many lockers or jump straight into the hustle and bustle.

Atmosphere

A huge circus tent as a dance floor with a stage for various DJs and performances such as fire shows, containers that served as another dance option or as a “play area” for those who wanted to let off steam, and numerous elaborate steel constructions, some of which breathed fire, as well as end-time-like vehicles characterized the image of the site. Smaller tents, where you could get a massage in between or store at various designers known in the scene, provided quiet and dry moments. The small restaurant offered additional space for dance enthusiasts, as it was also quickly converted into a disco. Another stage with changing renowned DJs and shows was located outside behind the circus tent, in front of which people danced exuberantly during the occasional sunny sequences. A number of food trucks with all kinds of delicacies and, of course, plenty of drinks stands were available for the physical well-being.

Wasteland total

But here too, the guests created the atmosphere and the party. With great attention to detail, some of them put together imaginative outfits weeks and months before the Summerfest. Many are based on the “Mad Max” films. Sometimes so elaborate that you could no longer recognize a face. Especially among members of the “Wasteland Warriors”, who occasionally appeared armed to the teeth. Fortunately, not all of it is real. Despite the weather conditions, it was a successful Wasteland Summerfest with lots of great impressions, a good atmosphere among the visitors and memorable experiences. The organizers’ appeal: “Dance like there’s no tomorrow” was completely fulfilled.

Text: Fabienne Wiedmann
Photos: blende666