Vinyl Weekend Plans: The Record Fair at Dreef and Program at PHIL

27 February 2025

Thinking about visiting the Haarlem Vinyl Festival but not sure where to begin? One of the highlights of the Haarlem Vinyl Festival is the freely accessible Record Fair, taking place on Saturday and Sunday, offering a perfect starting point for your vinyl weekend. In this post we lay down some program suggestions and places to stay to help you start planning your visit.

 

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Record Fair by Record Planet

On September 27 and 28, the historic Dreef Avenue will once again play host to the outdoor Record Fair, organized in collaboration with Record Planet, Europe's leading vinyl fair organizer. With over 65 local and international vendors, attendees can explore a vast selection of records, from rare finds to classic albums. The fair operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on both days and is free to attend. Remember to bring cash, as vendors might not accept cards.

Looking for a vendor spot at the fair? Contact Record Planet directly, more info can be found on their website. Don't wait too long, as space is limited!

Easy going Saturday morning vibes at the Record Fair at Dreef (credits: Robert Lagendijk)

Main Festival Hub and More Crate Digging at PHIL

Centrally located near Grote Markt, PHIL serves as the festival's main hub. Throughout the weekend, it will host a variety of events, including interactive listening sessions, Q&As and signing sessions, art exhibitions, and presentations that delve into both the legacy and future of vinyl culture. Walk-in access at PHIL is free, but certain concerts and sessions may require tickets. Needless to say, you will be able to get your hands on some rare records, as the Haarlem Record Label Market returns to the freely accessible PHIL foyer on Saturday and Sunday. 

PHIL Signing Sessions Haarlem Vinyl Festival

Getting your record signed by your favorite artists at PHIL (credits: Eager Captures)

Getting the Most Out of Your Festival Weekend: Exploring Haarlem

Haarlem is a small and cozy city, making it perfect for a relaxing yet exciting weekend. Beyond the festival, it offers a rich cultural experience. The city boasts stunning architecture, world-class museums like the Teylers Museum and the Frans Hals Museum, and a vibrant music scene. Strolling through the charming streets or renting a bike provides an excellent way to explore local cafés, boutiques, and historical sites.

During the Haarlem Vinyl Festival, many venues, shops, art galleries, and locations will host special programs as part of the festival. Get on the vinyl route and explore the best Haarlem has to offer, with both local and international acts playing at one of the many venues.

Talks and rare records during the Echobox take-over at Jopenkerk (credits: Eager Captures)

Accommodation Options Near PHIL and Dreef

For those planning to stay overnight, Haarlem offers a range of hotels to suit various budgets, all within proximity to PHIL and Dreef:

Near PHIL Haarlem:

  • Amrâth Grand Hotel Frans Hals - Luxury accommodation just 100 meters from PHIL.
  • Ambassador City Centre Hotel - Comfortable and convenient, also 100 meters away.
  • Hotel ML - A boutique hotel with historic charm, 100 meters from PHIL.
  • Hotel Lion d'Or Haarlem - Classic elegance, 850 meters from PHIL.
  • Boutiquehotel Staats - Unique, stylish rooms, 700 meters away.
  • B&B Hotel Malts - Cozy and homely, 450 meters from PHIL.

Near Dreef Avenue (Record Fair location):

  • Carlton Square Hotel - A 4-star hotel located just a short walk from Dreef, offering comfortable rooms and a great breakfast.
  • Hotel Haarlem by Van der Valk - A modern hotel with spacious rooms, only a few minutes from Dreef by bike or car.
  • Stayokay Haarlem - A budget-friendly hostel option near the Spaarne River, with easy access to Dreef and the festival.

Bettie Serveert and Hiqpy live at Patronaat (credits: Eager Captures)

Plan Your Visit

Visiting from abroad? The Haarlem Vinyl Festival is easily accessible by train, being only a 15-minute ride from Amsterdam Central Station and a 60-minute ride from Rotterdam Central Station. While parking is available near main locations, we encourage you to use public transport whenever possible. Traveling from further abroad? Haarlem is only a 20-minute train ride from Schiphol International Airport.

Get ready for a weekend filled with music, culture, and the vibrant community of Haarlem. Whether you're a seasoned vinyl collector or new to the scene, the Haarlem Vinyl Festival offers an unforgettable experience. Stay updated on program details and ticket information by subscribing to our newsletter

Get your Weekend Pass or Vinyl Culture ticket against Early Bird rate before May 1st. To sweeten the deal, the first Weekend Pass will also receive a limited-edition 2024 tote bag, designed by Joost Swarte. Don't miss out!
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Listening to your new records at the Audio-Technica listening stations at PHIL (credits: Eager Captures)

Read more:

+ A Roadmap to the Haarlem Vinyl Festival 2025
+ Send Us Your Program Suggestions