Your Ultimate ADE Survival Guide: Party like a pro!

It’s that time of the year again when Amsterdam’s streets pulse to the beat of the world’s most legendary electronic music festival—ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event). Whether you’re a seasoned raver or an ADE newbie, this festival is a marathon, not a sprint. With over 1,000 events across five days, you’ll need more than just a solid playlist to survive. Lucky for you, we’ve got the best tips and tricks to ensure you make it through every DJ set, dancefloor, and afterparty in one piece.

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Yes, we’re starting with the basics, but it’s called *essential* for a reason. Whether you're grooving at Lofi until sunrise or vibing at a warehouse party, keeping hydrated is key to lasting through ADE’s non-stop pace. With all the dancing, sweating, and, let’s be real, the occasional adult beverage, your body will be screaming for H2O.

Pro tip: Pack a refillable water bottle to keep on hand (a stylish one, naturally). Most venues have water refill stations, and if you’re staying at Leonardo Hotels, they’ve got you covered with free bottled water in your room. Thank us later.

2. Don’t let blisters ruin your vibe

We get it. You want to look cool while you party-hop. But trust us when we say that even your coolest kicks can turn on you after hours on your feet. Blisters are basically the unofficial enemy of ADE. Whether you're exploring the canals by day or stomping your feet on the dancefloor by night, make sure you’ve got some blister-proof tricks up your sleeve.

Pro tip: Guests at Leonardo Hotels can snag free blister plasters at reception. Yes, *free*. Your feet—and your future self—will thank you when you're still standing after Carl Cox's set on day five. The blister plasters will be available during ADE and while supplies last.

3. Protect those ears (you'll need them for life)

We all love feeling the bass in our bones, but your ears? They’re a little less enthusiastic about it. ADE is notorious for pushing sound systems to their limit, and while that’s part of the magic, long-term exposure to high decibels can lead to hearing damage. Earplugs are your BFF at ADE, trust us. And no, you won’t miss a beat with the good ones.

Pro tip: Invest in high-fidelity earplugs that reduce the volume without sacrificing sound quality. Plus, they’re small enough to fit in your pocket or your festival-ready fanny pack. (Because who’s carrying a bag on the dancefloor these days?)